Musharruf Shaharyar

Why DeGroote?

My major reason for choosing DeGroote was the co-op program, and getting the opportunity to balance studies while gaining professional work experience. Secondly, it gave me the opportunity to  build on my professional network while being in close proximity to Toronto. The final thing that closed the deal for me was the comparatively affordable tuition.

Why an MBA?

After working for five years in different companies, getting an MBA seemed like the logical next step to diversify my skill-set and add specific business skills such as leadership, team collaboration, and strategic thinking. It was also a great way to meet people from different industry backgrounds and increase my networking opportunities.

What surprised you about DeGroote?

The thing that surprised me the most is how close you become with all of your classmates. There is a strong bond that develops once you start working together on all the group projects, and I’m sure it will stay that way after we have all graduated.

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

I have three pieces of advice.

1. GMAT – Remember to spend ample time looking at solved answers from any practice book that you use. There are usually a certain number of ways of solving each question and doing this will provide you with good tips on how to deal with most problems.

2. Going into interviews – Make a playbook with two to three points from your previous experiences (extracurricular, work, sports) for common questions like time management, leadership, teamwork and analysis which will definitely help you out through most situational/behavioral interviews.

3. Life of an MBA student – Doing an MBA is all about time and stress management. You know your own strengths best, so remember to keep ample time for studying but (and I can’t stress this enough) do go out and enjoy time with family and friends.

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

I can’t recall one specific time that I would call as the highlight of my time at DeGroote. I would say it’s been more the overall experience, which mainly involves all those group projects, getting equally stressed for the exams while studying with my friends, and then the big post-midterm and finals party in downtown Toronto where we get to let loose and fully enjoy out time here.

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

• VP External Relations, DeGroote MBA Marketing Association

Tell us one fun fact about you!

I am partially ambidextrous.