Nihal Nishadul

Why did you decide to do an MBA?

The decision to pursue an MBA was all about seizing the perfect opportunity as a new immigrant in Canada. I had a few key reasons behind this choice.

First off, I wanted to get a solid grasp of the Canadian economic landscape. An MBA seemed like the best way to gain valuable insights and understand the ins and outs of the local business environment.

On top of that, I knew the importance of building a strong network. An MBA program brings together a diverse group of talented individuals with similar ambitions. I was excited about the chance to connect with like-minded people, not only for professional reasons but also to make lifelong friends along the way.

And let's not forget the power of a Canadian brand name. Getting an MBA from a reputable Canadian institution carries weight in the job market. It shows dedication, a strong work ethic, and a solid foundation of business knowledge. Having that on my resume would definitely help me stand out from the competition when pursuing exciting career opportunities.

So, for me, pursuing an MBA was about diving into the Canadian business world, building an amazing network, and boosting my professional prospects with that coveted Canadian brand name. I knew it would be an incredible journey filled with growth, learning, and new opportunities.

What is the most significant thing you've learned at Ivey?

The biggest lesson I took away from my time at Ivey was the power of relying on others instead of trying to do it all by myself. It was a total game-changer.

Ivey's collaborative vibe showed me firsthand how teamwork makes the dream work. Whether we were tackling 24-hour reports, diving into cases or just shooting the breeze in class, I realized that combining different perspectives, skills, and experiences led to incredible results. It's like we leveled up together.

And it didn't stop there. The support and camaraderie among my fellow students were off the charts. We had each other's backs, whether it was prepping for exams or dealing with recruitment journey. Knowing we could lean on one another made the whole experience way less daunting.

Learning to rely on others has had a lasting impact on my personal and professional growth. It's taught me humility, the importance of trust, and the courage to ask for help when I need it. I've seen firsthand how teamwork makes everything better, from building stronger relationships to achieving bigger goals.

All in all, the most important thing I learned at Ivey was that together, we can conquer anything. It's a lesson I'll carry with me, shaping how I approach challenges, teamwork, and personal development.

What's been the most surprising aspect of the Ivey MBA journey to date?

The most surprising thing about the Ivey MBA journey so far has been realizing just how much we can cram into 24 hours. It's like a never-ending juggling act! Between attending classes, prepping for multiple cases, socializing, playing sports, getting ready for recruitment, and even researching and writing cases with faculty, there's never a dull moment. And let's not forget the endless list of activities happening at Western University.

I've been amazed at how we're constantly on the go, making the most of every minute. It's like a crash course in time management and multitasking. But it's exhilarating. Despite the whirlwind, I've come to appreciate the thrill of pushing my limits and accomplishing more than I ever thought possible in such a short span.

What's even more surprising is the sheer range of opportunities available here. From collaborating with faculty on case projects to diving headfirst into the vibrant campus life, there's always something new to explore and get involved in.

Overall, the Ivey MBA journey has shown me that we're capable of achieving incredible things when we pack our days with purpose and embrace all the amazing opportunities that come our way. It's been an eye-opening and exciting adventure so far.

Describe the role you play professionally:

In my professional capacity, I specialize in strategic finance and FP&A. I play a key role in analyzing business cases, developing plans and forecasts, conducting M&A due diligence, and performing valuation exercises. Additionally, stakeholder management is a significant aspect of my work, involving collaboration with operational-level employees and understanding the needs of C-suite executives. Through these responsibilities, I contribute to driving financial growth, optimizing performance, and ensuring alignment between various stakeholders in the organization.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

The most challenging aspect of my job is navigating the complexities that arise from working with individuals who have competing priorities and diverse backgrounds. Communicating complex ideas behind numbers to various levels and departments within the organization requires a high level of adaptability and effective communication skills.

What books are on your bedside table AND/OR what podcast are you listing to right now?

Bloomberg Technology, Pivot Podcast, Decoder

How do you manage stress (i.e. sports, exercise, meditation etc)?

Cycling and Walking (in absence of a bike)