Surbhi Kwatra

“Motivated by doing something new every day and always up for a challenge”

Hometown: Gurgaon, Haryana, India

Fun Fact About Yourself: Always up for exploring and trying new things. Exploring different cuisines and dining experiences brings me great joy, from street food to fine-dining establishments.

Undergraduate School and Major: Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, electronics and communication engineering

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Accenture, business analyst

What were some of the key motivating factors behind pursuing your MBA, and why did this seem like the right time for you?

Coming from a middle-class family, I deeply value education and resources, instilled in me by my visionary parents. Their unwavering support has fueled my determination to excel academically and professionally. Recognizing my compelling interest and passion for business and management, coupled with my future career aspirations, I believe an MBA will set me up for this journey ahead as it will augment my knowledge base and cultivate my critical thinking and leadership capabilities. I have always consistently challenged myself and pushed my boundaries to exploit my full potential. This desire to be the best of myself was the fuel to push me out of my comfort zone and is one of the reasons I chose to earn an MBA.

What are one or two key aspects of this MBA program that stood out among the others, and why were they so important to you?

My decision to enroll in UCR’s MBA program was mostly influenced by its exceptional brand value. The school’s stellar reputation opens doors to exceptional career opportunities and aligns with the extensive alumni network, fostering meaningful relationships and a vibrant professional environment. Aside from academic interests, students can embrace a well-rounded and immersive MBA experience by exploring California’s cultural richness of food, art, and entertainment.

What club, activity, or experience at the school have you most enjoyed so far, and why?

My MBA program officially started in fall 2024, but I began interacting with UCR School of Business in late June in the Summer with UCR and Business Ready programs. Those early sessions were incredibly beneficial and provided me with insights into campus life and academic expectations. They helped me be more prepared and excited for my fall classes, especially after working for almost three years.

What is your biggest accomplishment in your career so far?

While it may seem like a typical answer, pursuing an MBA at the A. Gary Anderson Graduate School of Management, one of the world’s top business schools, was a pivotal point in my career. UCR has provided me with the tools I need to pursue my goals and aspirations, whether it is the curriculum, clubs, and networking opportunities, or hands-on projects. With the UCR MBA program, I am confident that I will be able to realize my professional goals, contribute effectively to providing informed business solutions, and add significant value to organizations at large.

What is one thing you have recently read, watched, or listened to that you would highly recommend to other prospective MBAs? Why?

I recently read Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi, and I would definitely recommend it to prospective MBAs. One takeaway is “build it before you need it,” the idea that you should be networking before you need something. You should always be building your network so that you are able to tap into different corners of your network when you can help someone or when you are seeking help.

What are two things you have learned at your school that have surprised you so far – one academic and one non-academic?

From an academic perspective, the diverse cross-industry experiences shared by the cohort really challenged and strengthened my thinking and broadened my horizons. One non-academic thing I’ve learned from my interactions, which has genuinely surprised me, is how deeply personal motivations and experiences shape professional decisions. I’ve noticed that personal values, emotional connections, and even past experiences frequently play an equally strong role in how people approach their careers, leadership, and decision-making. It’s fascinating to see how much human factors, like passions, fears, or personal relationships, drive business outcomes—sometimes more than the most rigorous analysis or strategic planning would suggest. It’s a reminder that business is very much a human endeavor, despite the numbers and models that often dominate conversations.

What has been the biggest epiphany you’ve gained about yourself or the world since you started your MBA program?

Since I started my MBA program, I had a sudden realization that I may not know everything or be experienced in all areas; However, by meeting such a diverse cohort of people at UCR and being able to learn from each other, I realized I can genuinely learn and do anything that I put my mind to.

What advice would you give to help prospective MBAs as they look to gain admission into an MBA program?

My advice to prospective MBAs would be to just be yourself and let your unique background and experience tell a story about who you are. Also, speak to the current students and alumni to learn more and get insights about the program and ask any questions you may have around the application process.