Karen Melkomyan

University of Rochester, Simon Business School

“A dreamer aiming for space, embracing change, taking risks, and committed to never quitting.”

Hometown: Yerevan, Armenia

Fun Fact About Yourself: One time, I jumped off a moving train.

Undergraduate School and Major: American University of Armenia, Bachelor of Business Administration

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: IT Consultant at Inowise Systems

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of Rochester Simon’s MBA curriculum or programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? I was looking for an MBA program that will help me pivot my career. Simon had the courses, community for networking, Benet Career Center, and the clubs to help me reach my goals. It is hard and overwhelming to be an international student in an unfamiliar environment, with no prior experience in the US market. Everything mentioned above makes it easier to succeed and that is important to me.

Rochester Simon is known for being “unabashedly analytical.” Why does the program’s focus on quantitative analysis and decision-making appeal to you? How do you intend to leverage this approach as a student and professional? The appeal of Simon Business School’s focus on quantitative analysis and decision-making lies in its alignment with the evolving demands of the business world. In today’s fast-paced environment, having a strong analytical background is no longer just an advantage; it is essential. Simon’s rigorous curriculum, which integrates analytics with an economics-based approach, provides the tools and frameworks necessary to excel in data-driven decision-making.

As a student, I intend to deepen my expertise in quantitative analysis by mastering tools which Simon offers through its STEM-designated courses. The opportunity to engage in hands-on experiential learning will allow me to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, further solidifying my understanding and capabilities.

Professionally, I plan to leverage this analytical approach to drive strategic decision-making and innovation within organizations.

What are some advantages you’ve seen in earning your MBA in Rochester? One of the most significant advantages of earning my MBA in Rochester is the people I am surrounded by. The talented fellow students, staff, and faculty create an enriching environment that fosters learning and growth. This diverse community is a constant source of inspiration and collaboration, making it a truly rewarding experience.

Another benefit is the small cohort size. This intimate setting allows for stronger connections and deeper relationships with peers, enabling us to learn from each other’s experiences and insights. A close-knit community enhances networking opportunities and facilitates a supportive learning environment.

Additionally, an often-overlooked advantage is the constant pressure to make decisions. Whether in classes or daily life, Simon Business School offers numerous opportunities and challenges that require prioritization and decision-making. This experience mirrors real-world business scenarios, where making informed choices and managing their consequences is crucial. This aspect of the program acts as a simulator for the business world, preparing us for future leadership roles.

What course, club or activity excites you the most at Simon? I am particularly excited about Simon Vision Consulting because it offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with real-world business challenges while collaborating with diverse teams. The chance to apply theoretical knowledge from my coursework to actual consulting projects enhances my learning experience and allows me to contribute meaningfully to local businesses. This hands-on experience will sharpen my analytical and problem-solving skills.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: Choosing my biggest career accomplishment is challenging, as I am proud of several projects I’ve completed. However, one standout achievement occurred during one of my early roles at an international corporation. I was tasked with reducing the number of level 0 troubleshooting incidents in the retail sector. To address this, I designed and implemented an innovative level 0 troubleshooting bot, which was introduced to customers through social media channels.

This initiative was first rolled out in the Armenian market, where it successfully streamlined the troubleshooting process and enhanced customer satisfaction. Following its success, the bot was expanded to various European markets, demonstrating its scalability and effectiveness.

What do you hope to do after graduation (at this point)? After graduation, I aspire to either establish or join an organization dedicated to helping businesses deepen their understanding of their customers. My goal is to enhance customer engagement across all touchpoints, ensuring that every interaction is meaningful and impactful.

By pursuing this path, I hope to make a significant contribution to the field of customer experience and help organizations thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

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