Siddharth Shah

Why DeGroote?

Developing a good blend of conceptual learning and real-world experience simultaneously was unique to DeGroote. I met Rita Chen during the MBA TOUR in Mumbai and the passion with which she spoke and insights she shared about DeGroote made me feel part of the vibrant community! With multiple nationalities in the cohort, there is so much diversity in thought. Inclusion is an action that leads to diversity and this is evident in the kind of culture that is encouraged at DeGroote.

My short-term goal is to become a fund manager and develop an in-depth understanding of equity markets. To achieve that, I needed to improve my skills in business valuation and risk management and DeGroote is the place for me. The faculty is unparalleled and the curriculum is a perfect match for my future goals.

Why an MBA?

A combination of professional goals and the need for career progression and transition have been the catalyst for me to apply to a B-school at this point in my life. My education and work experience developed a strong base of analytical skills including financial modeling, research, and analysis. Although I enjoyed working in a knowledge-rich environment, my desire to make a more long-lasting impact on the overall growth of the organization was restrictive. My goal is to make a mark by foraying into the portfolio management and financial services space and I thought that an MBA will enhance my skill-set and prepare me to embark on this challenging career path. It was the right time to obtain a management degree as it will impart theoretical and practical exposure to critical management disciplines, essential to enhance my learning curve.

What surprised you about DeGroote?

The Summer Internship Program is one of a kind and the Career and Professional Development team does everything to justify that. During the time of crisis like the current Pandemic, the CPD team came up with an innovative idea of partnering with Small & Medium Businesses allowing students to gather Canadian experience under their belt. Also, developing a good blend of conceptual learning and real-world experience, and the 48-hour case competition (DeGroote MBA cup) was something that is unique to DeGroote.

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

Students should have high proficiency in Python & Tableau. Be ready to accept the change and always be curious and open to learning new things as it will allow succeeding in a competitive environment. Make full use of the vast alumni network that we have at our disposal as they can guide to get your foot in the door. Research about the industries in Canada that you want to pursue your career in enabling you to have a more focused approach. Students should start networking as early as possible, beginning from their seniors, as it would make the students comfortable when they go on coffee chats with someone from the industry.

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

It’s been a roller-coaster ride till now. My first year was very challenging but rewarding at the same time as it had always pushed me out of my comfort zone and compelled me to do things that I thought I could never do. The highlight for me was winning the DeGroote MBA cup where I had to present in front of 250 people and securing my summer internship with Harvest Portfolios Group.

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

• VP Finance & Operations, DeGroote MBAs for Impact Student Association
• DeGroote Leader
• Competitor, MBA Games 2020

Tell us one fun fact about you!

Avid traveller. Visited more than 30 cities across the globe in the last 5 years.