Jay Bhatia

Why DeGroote?

McMaster University’s pedagogy delivers a comprehensive curriculum. The practice based curriculum is flexible and encourages lateral thinking and leadership potential, which is the hallmark for stupendous success. DeGroote has given me numerous networking opportunities and has certainly enhanced my managerial and consulting skills, and sharpened my analytical abilities.

Why an MBA?

While I had worked with various clients on multiple certification and auditing assignments, most of my experience had been on the implementation of accounting practices rather than strategy, which is done by Chief Finance Officers (CFO’s). As I have worked in close quarters with many such top management professionals, I began to explore the avenues, which could help me also build my career like them. I started by reading the profiles of successful business leaders and top managers in leading corporations and it became clear that a majority of them started early in their business careers with an MBA training. Intuitively, I knew that an MBA is the right step for me, as I believed I am at a stage in my career where I need to broaden my horizon, for which the comprehensive training of an MBA was a must.

What surprised you about DeGroote?

The extremely supportive student culture and the autonomy that is given to you as a student was something that surprised me about DeGroote. CPD is very heavily invested in helping out the students. The sheer number of networking events and networking opportunities was indeed a surprise as well. DeGroote has a great network.

What piece of advice would you give to anyone considering doing their MBA at DeGroote?

CPD is there for your help. Please utilize them to the fullest. Book slots, ask for advice, do mock interviews, resume critiquing, etc. Do not hesitate to ask!

What has been the highlight of your DeGroote experience so far?

Having engaged so much in a short time-span is indubitably self – uplifting. I have been part of the MBA games, DeGroote Case competition, DeGroote Inter-professional Health Leadership conference, DeGroote Innovative Solutions Competition, DeGroote’s Social Media Team, pitching in for Charity, 48 Hour live case, learnt how give a stock pitch, and made some amazing life long friends. The key highlight however, will be MBA GAMES and securing my Summer Internship with Appficiency!

Aside from being an MBA Student Ambassador, what other extra-curricular activities have you been involved with while at DeGroote?

• VP Finance, DeGroote Inter-professional Health Leadership Conference (DIHLC)
• Finance Director, DeGroote Innovative Solutions Competition (DISC)
• Team Lead, DeGroote MBA Students Instagram Team (account name: degroote_mba)
• Volunteer, MBA Games 2020

Tell us one fun fact about you!

I am a Thrill Seeker! I have been on the world’s fastest roller coaster, sky dived, and even raced professionally (Motorcycle).