Srishti Samadder

Stanford Graduate School of Business

“Endlessly curious, enthusiastic, always growing, and lifting both weights and spirits with unstoppable energy!”

Hometown: Kolkata, India

Fun Fact About Yourself: As a child, I could speak Russian, but time has completely erased it from my memory

Undergraduate School and Major: Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, Chemical Engineering

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Strategy and Operations Manager, Product Development Manager, Unilever

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of Stanford GSB’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? What stood out to me most about Stanford GSB was its deep commitment to shaping empathetic and thoughtful leaders. Beyond just teaching the hard skills of business, Stanford challenges you to reflect on your values, question your impact, and grow into a leader who not only drives success but also uplifts others. The school creates an environment that pushes you to think beyond strategy and profit, encouraging self-discovery and a purpose-driven approach to leadership.

What has been the most important thing that you’ve learned at Stanford GSB so far? One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned at Stanford GSB is the power of vulnerability and the importance of being true to yourself. At first, I was skeptical about the Leadership Laboratory course, but it turned out to be a transformative experience of my MBA journey. In a small ‘squad’ of 5-6 peers and a 2nd-year mentor, we met weekly—without a formal instructor—to challenge ourselves, push past comfort zones, and exchange unfiltered, constructive feedback. The experience forced me to confront my blind spots, embrace discomfort, and rethink what it truly means to grow and inspire others. More than just a course, it was a space for deep self-reflection and real change—one that has reshaped the way I show up and connect with people.

What course, club or activity have you enjoyed the most so far at Stanford GSB? I’ve enjoyed several courses at Stanford GSB, but two stand out as my favorites: Strategic Communication and Product Launch.

Strategic Communication is an absolute game-changer—it teaches how individuals and organizations craft and deliver powerful messages in different business settings. The best part? The course is incredibly fun! I’ve had to explain ‘How zippers work’ and even gave my midterm presentation on Schitt’s Creek—one of my all-time favorite shows. Without even realizing it, you gain confidence and refine your ability to communicate effectively, making it a must-take class.

Product Launch, on the other hand, tackles two fundamental questions: ‘Is there a market?’ and ‘Will you make any money?’. The professors bring humor, energy, and real-world insights, making the class both engaging and highly practical. You walk away with invaluable lessons on how to take an idea from concept to reality.

Both courses have been incredibly rewarding, and I couldn’t recommend them more!

What quality best describes your MBA classmates you’ve met so far? Give an example why this is true. I would describe my MBA classmates as passionate, uniquely driven, and endlessly hungry for growth. Every person I meet has an incredible story—each with their own distinct career journey and a fresh perspective on what success means to them. What’s most inspiring is their fearless pursuit of bold ideas, whether it’s launching startups, driving change in established industries, or exploring unconventional paths. And they do all of this while balancing personal passions, relationships, and a full academic load. The energy, ambition, and diversity of thought make every conversation a learning experience, and it’s truly motivating to be surrounded by such extraordinary individuals.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: One of my biggest career accomplishments was leading a team in the male-dominated manufacturing industry, where I managed a group significantly older than me. Navigating the balance between respect and authority was a challenge, but it became an invaluable lesson in leadership and people management.

A highlight of my time in this role was spearheading the supply chain strategy and execution for my portfolio of products during COVID-19. Our sales had plummeted by 50%, and my team was tasked with turning things around. Through strategic planning, operational improvements, and close collaboration across teams, we successfully regained the lost sales within a year—a milestone that reinforced my ability to lead through adversity and drive meaningful impact.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far? Moving from India to the U.S. was both exhilarating and daunting—it pushed me far beyond my comfort zone. One of my biggest accomplishments as an MBA student has been not just keeping up with classes, but truly immersing myself in the experience. From forging meaningful connections with my incredible peers to embracing new perspectives and challenges, I’ve learned and grown in ways I never expected. And while balancing it all, I still (occasionally) make it to the gym!

What has been your best memory as an MBA so far? One of my best MBA memories so far has been the unforgettable Thanksgiving trip to Mexico with my batchmates. We fully immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture, indulged in incredible food, and shared experiences that went far beyond the classroom. The highlight of the trip? An intense yet mesmerizing scuba diving adventure, where we explored the breathtaking underwater world—a hidden universe teeming with life and beauty. More than just a trip, it was a chance to bond with my peers on a deeper level, creating friendships and memories that will last a lifetime.

What advice would you give to a prospective applicant looking to join the Stanford GSB Class of 2026? There’s no set template for what the admissions committee is looking for, so don’t waste time trying to fit a mold. Instead, take a step back and reflect—not just on your accomplishments, but on your growth areas and how this experience will help you evolve. What drives you? What impact do you want to make?

Stanford GSB isn’t just interested in what you’ve done; they truly want to understand what matters most to you and why. This question isn’t just an essay prompt—it tells you everything about the kind of school Stanford is. It’s a place that values introspection, purpose, and personal growth as much as achievement. The best way to approach your application is with honesty and self-awareness. Focus on telling your unique story—one that reflects your values, aspirations, and the experiences that shaped you. When you do that, your application won’t just check a box; it will be a meaningful reflection of who you are and the person you’re striving to become.

DON’T MISS: MEET THE STANFORD GSB MBA CLASS OF 2026