Akash Shetty

Could you share a fun fact about yourself?

A fun fact about me is that I was part of the team responsible for the Chandrayaan-3 mission, which successfully landed India's first lander on the moon. This achievement was particularly significant as it made India the first country to achieve a soft landing near the moon's south pole, a region that had never been explored before. 

Tell us about yourself, and how you got to where you are today?

I grew up on a family farm along the coast of Southern India. After completing my Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and Master’s in Design Engineering, I joined the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in 2015. My time at ISRO has been both challenging and rewarding. I've had the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects, including the Chandrayaan-2 and Chandrayaan-3 lunar landing missions. 

Now, I'm taking my journey a step further by pursuing an MBA at INSEAD, where I aim to blend my technical background with business strategy. Each experience has shaped my path, and I’m excited to see where this journey will take me next!

What motivated you to choose the INSEAD MBA, and how do you envision it aligning with your future goals?

I chose the INSEAD MBA because of its remarkable diversity and strong emphasis on entrepreneurship. Learning alongside exceptionally talented individuals from around the world will foster rich exchanges of ideas and perspectives, which are crucial for personal and professional growth.

INSEAD’s focus on entrepreneurship aligns perfectly with my aspiration to develop innovative solutions in technology and drive meaningful change. Access to a global network of alumni and industry leaders will be invaluable as I navigate future challenges.

What are your impressions of campus life so far and how did you navigate accommodation, and sorting out all the admin? Any tips for incoming students?

My impressions of campus life at INSEAD have been overwhelmingly positive. The vibrant community is filled with diverse perspectives and backgrounds, which enriches discussions and learning experiences. 

Navigating accommodation was straightforward. I found it helpful to utilise the student forums, where current students shared their experiences and recommendations. I reached out to the 24’D students early in the process to clarify any questions I had, which made securing a suitable place much easier.

For incoming students, my tip would be to take advantage of the networking opportunities early on. Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask for help from fellow students when dealing with administrative tasks; the community is very supportive and eager to assist. Finally, stay organised and keep track of deadlines to ensure a smooth transition into the programme!

Could you share a little about your application process and securing financing?

The application process for INSEAD was both thorough and rewarding. 

I began by researching the programme extensively to understand its unique offerings and how they aligned with my career goals. I focused on crafting a compelling personal statement highlighting my background, ISRO experiences, and aspirations post-MBA. The application also required recommendations, so I chose mentors who could speak to my strengths and potential.

Securing financing was an important aspect of my journey. I explored various options, including scholarships and educational loans. I was fortunate to receive the INSEAD Syngenta Scholarship for Emerging Country Leadership and the Tomorrow’s Leaders Award, which significantly reduced my financial burden. Additionally, I researched loan options available to international students and secured a loan that would support my studies.

I recommend future INSEAD MBA applicants start early and connect with alumni or current students for insights on financing options and to learn about their experiences during the application process.

You are starting your INSEAD MBA in France. Are you planning any campus exchanges?

I do not plan to participate in campus exchanges during my INSEAD MBA. I prefer to focus on fully experiencing the academic and social opportunities available at my starting campus in France. 

In your first few weeks, what aspects of the INSEAD MBA have stood out to you as unique or particularly appealing?

In my first few weeks at INSEAD, several aspects of the MBA programme have stood out to me as unique and particularly appealing. 

First, the diversity of the student body is remarkable. Being surrounded by peers from various backgrounds and cultures enriches discussions and offers fresh perspectives on global business challenges.

Second, the emphasis on experiential learning has been impressive. The case study method used in classes encourages active participation and collaboration, allowing us to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios effectively.

Additionally, the strong focus on entrepreneurship and innovation is particularly appealing. 

The resources and support available for aspiring entrepreneurs, such as Bootcamp and IVC programmes, create an inspiring environment for developing new ideas.

Aside from your academic pursuits, what extracurricular interests or activities are you exploring at INSEAD, and how do you see them enhancing your overall MBA experience?

Aside from my academic pursuits at INSEAD, I've joined several clubs, including the INSEAD Consulting Club (ICC), MountaINSEAD, INSEAD Entrepreneurship Club (IEC), and INSEAD Technology Media and Telecom (TMT) club. Each of these clubs aligns with my interests and career aspirations, providing valuable networking opportunities and insights into their respective fields.

I also maintain my fitness by going to the gym regularly, which helps me stay balanced and energised amidst the rigorous MBA schedule. Additionally, I'm exploring other activities and clubs that will allow me to broaden my experiences and meet new people.

Any parting words of wisdom, and are you willing to be contacted for more information by prospective students?

My parting words of wisdom for prospective students would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way during your MBA journey. Engage actively with your peers, participate in clubs, and don't hesitate to step outside your comfort zone. Building connections and seeking diverse experiences will enrich your learning and personal growth.

I would be more than willing to be contacted by prospective students for more information. Sharing insights and experiences is important, and I'm happy to help others navigate their own MBA journeys.