How an international student found his place in the College of Business

When Angad Singh Wasu began searching for an MBA program, he was looking for more than accreditation or a career pathway. He wanted an environment that paired academic rigor with a sense of community, and Central Michigan University offered both.

“My reason for choosing Central Michigan University was its well-renowned MBA program that is accredited by AACSB International, and, being situated in a small American town, I would be able to experience life at a milder pace compared to some high-paced cities,” he said. “CMU has also been one of the few universities to offer a great blend of exposure through career fairs, and employers who often visit on campus to guide students for future employment propositions.” 

That combination of professional preparation in a welcoming setting has defined his experience as an international student from Chandigarh, India. 

Inspired by finance

 Having always been curious about how decisions are shaped by financial considerations, Wasu recognized early the role finance plays in every sphere.

“I have always believed that no matter what decisions we make and no matter what the end result of those decisions, finance is always one of the most important aspects that we take into account,” he said. “Since I came to the United States and learned more about how the market operates, my thought process has become even clearer, and my curiosity to learn even more.” This foundation has motivated Wasu’s studies and continues to guide his career ambitions. 

Wasu's standout classes and professors

One of the most valuable parts of Wasu’s MBA journey has been learning from professors who teach with both depth and energy.

 “One of them was MBA-640 (Data Analysis for Managers) taught by Prof. Vikesh Amin. His lectures were early morning during the biting cold winters, but I always felt excited and eager to attend those lectures as he taught with such zeal that the concepts were made clear, and the hands-on nature of the course made it easier to remember,” he said. Likewise, MBA-660 with truly unique, as she always had something interesting planned … I remember once when she got cucumber-flavored Lays for the class to try, hence explaining how MNCs across the globe adapt to the place where they want to conduct their business and appeal to the common demographic’s taste and preferences.” 

Finding support and building community

In addition to coursework, CMU’s environment has introduced Wasu to resources that strengthen both academic success and well-being.

 “CMU hosts seminars addressing important issues such as stress and burnout in an academic setting and mental health concerns,” he said. “We even have many Registered Student Organizations that are actively conducting events and helping students realize their passion towards their interests. Hence, I do feel CMU has always made its students, irrespective of our immigration status, feel at home and feel supported.”

 He also became involved as treasurer of the Project Management Chapter, gained hands-on work experience through landscape operations, and now serves as a graduate assistant in the College of Business Administration.

 “As an international student, I feel these activities and student employment experiences are a great morale booster and motivate students to get out of the house and be a part of something meaningful,” he said.

 That sense of community began before he even arrived. Connecting with other Indian students through Telegram gave him friendships that became essential once he reached Mount Pleasant. 

What advice does he have for future students? 

For those considering graduate study, Wasu emphasizes clarity and preparation.

“I would suggest … to have a clear mind and think about what they feel they can see themselves doing and being engaged in,” he said. “Also, I would like to emphasize that there is a big difference between a hobby and a career path, and one must think very carefully before spending excessive time and resources towards fulfilling the wrong thing.”

Looking back, he also recognizes the value of technical readiness. “Probably the most important one is to learn skills such as coding or getting certified in programs and software such as SAP and/or Oracle … in today’s tech-driven world, they are really important.” 

Living life beyond the classroom

Balance has been just as important as academics. For Wasu, driving offers perspective and a sense of release.

“My go-to way to take a break and reset has always been to get out of bed and go for a long drive—it’s such a beautiful experience when you don’t have a destination to reach or a deadline to meet, just you and your car, driving towards an unknown location. That’s real therapy for me.”

His days combine graduate coursework, work shifts, independent study in Grawn Hall, and time with friends at local restaurants. Each step reinforces his determination and keeps his long-term goals in focus.

What Wasu aspires for the future

“My goal after graduation is to find a job where I can contribute and apply my skillset/knowledge towards meeting the organizational goals,” he said. “CMU has helped me believe that with hard work and the right mindset, these goals are not too far-fetched.”

 What he will carry with him most are the daily connections and sense of belonging.

“I had forgotten what it feels like to be a student, meet with friends, and not to take myself too seriously,” he said. “When you’re surrounded by your peers and live in a shared accommodation, there is a certain homeliness and sense of belonging towards this journey. I think living in the present and not stressing about things that haven’t happened yet is my biggest takeaway from being here at CMU.”