Maha Arshad

Where are you from? What high school did you attend?

I’m an International student from Lahore, Pakistan. I attended International School Lahore.  

What was your Program of Student for Years 1 and 2?

Bachelor of Science - Major in Biology

List your Extra-curricular involvement in the first two years of university.

Why did you choose Ivey’s HBA program?

I chose Ivey’s HBA program because of its unique 2+2 structure, which gave me the freedom to explore before fully committing to business. In high school, I had a strong background in the core sciences but wasn’t sure whether I wanted to continue down that path or transition into business. So I decided to spend my first two years studying Biology, knowing that I had the option to apply to Ivey in third year. What ultimately drew me to Ivey was the case-based learning in Business 2257. It was interactive, fast-paced, and relied on discussion rather than memorization. I was far more engaged than I had ever been in lecture-based classes, and that’s when I realized Ivey’s teaching style aligned with how I learn and that it would be the right fit for me.

Describe one highlight of your Ivey Experience thus far.

One of the highlights of my Ivey experience has been Orientation Week. The energetic welcome from the OWLs (Orientation Week Leaders) set the tone right away. The excitement in the room made it clear that this was going to be more than just an academic program. I still remember the anticipation of finding out my section and meeting everyone for the first time. Within minutes, we were already practicing our cheers, and that sense of section pride kicked in from day one. Go Dinos! The rest of the week was packed with fun activities that brought us together and helped us bond quickly. It was the perfect introduction to the Ivey community and made me even more excited for everything ahead.

What advice do you have for incoming HBA students?

My advice for incoming HBA students is to embrace the experience with an open mind. You’ll meet people from so many different backgrounds and perspectives, and you have the chance to learn a tremendous amount if you’re open to listening, engaging, and challenging your own assumptions. The more you immerse yourself and take advantage of these opportunities, the more you’ll grow both personally and professionally. 

How has Ivey’s Career Management team set you up for success?

Ivey’s Career Management team has been instrumental in setting me up for success. Through the many career fairs and networking events they organize, I’ve had the chance to connect directly with firms and explore different industries and opportunities. I’ve also benefited from the resources they provide, including workshops on resumes and application materials, access to the job portal, and interview prep. What I appreciate most is how supportive they are throughout the entire recruiting process. Having them as a resource gives me confidence that I can navigate this process effectively and take full advantage of the opportunities available.

What kind of support did you find the most helpful with the intense curriculum in HBA1?

The support I find most helpful in HBA1 comes from my section. Sharing a classroom with 78 other students creates a real sense of community, and knowing we’re all navigating the same challenges makes everything more manageable. Beyond the classroom, having socials and downtime with my section helps me recharge and keeps me motivated. Having that balance of work and connection makes the intense curriculum feel much more doable and even fun.

What has been the most challenging part of the program for you and how did you overcome it?

The most challenging part of the program for me has been finding balance between academics, recruiting, and social or other commitments. To overcome this, I’ve focused on staying organized and prioritizing tasks, using my calendar and other planning tools to keep track of deadlines and responsibilities. I’ve also learned the importance of setting boundaries and saying no when I feel overwhelmed, which has been essential for managing my time and maintaining my well-being.

How has Ivey helped you become a leader and make an impact on the world around you?

Ivey has helped me become a leader by building my confidence and encouraging me to step out of my comfort zone. Through class discussions, group projects, and interactive learning, I’m constantly interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds, each with different perspectives and approaches. Learning to navigate these differences and contribute meaningfully has challenged me to communicate effectively, listen actively, and adapt my approach. This experience is helping me grow into a leader who can not only take initiative but also make a real impact on the world around me.

What are your plans for after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to explore a career in strategy and consulting. I’m drawn to this path because it offers the opportunity to work across different industries and tackle a variety of business challenges, which will help me develop a broad skill set and perspective. Ultimately, I hope to apply the experience and insights I gain to contribute to my family business in Pakistan, using what I’ve learned to drive growth and make a meaningful impact.