CMU News
Pravalya Kamireddy’s path from law to global business leadership
Leaving behind a courtroom in India for a classroom in Michigan, Pravalya Kamireddy is learning that leadership looks different in every culture—but confidence is universal.
When she decided to pursue an MBA, she wasn’t just changing fields; she was expanding her world. With a background in law and a passion for international learning, she came to Central Michigan University seeking a program that would connect her legal expertise to business strategy, leadership, and data-driven decision-making. What she found was a community that challenged and supported her in equal measure.
“I wanted to study abroad to gain international exposure and challenge myself by stepping into a global business environment,” Kamireddy said. “CMU stood out because of its welcoming community and the CBA’s strong balance between academics and practical learning. I felt right away that it would be an exciting place to grow both professionally and personally.”
She said she was looking for a program that would connect her legal background with business and project management skills. “The CBA has gone beyond my expectations with its supportive faculty, hands-on opportunities, and now a Graduate Assistantship that makes learning even more rewarding,” she said. “I’m grateful for how much I’ve grown here.”
Adjusting to life at CMU
As she settled into Mount Pleasant, Kamireddy discovered that adapting to a new country required both courage and community.
“The biggest adjustment since I have arrived in the U.S. is to adapt myself to a completely new academic and cultural environment,” Kamireddy said. “I found support through the university’s Global Engagement team, the CBA faculty, and through my friends and peers where I was always welcomed into friendly and supportive teams in each class.”
That sense of belonging helped her thrive academically and personally. “Most of my MBA project management classes have provided me insights to tackle my career,” she said. “The tools and topics learned through my classes have provided me guidance to work in my current role as a web content specialist at University Communications.”
Learning that connects the classroom to her career
Kamireddy found that every discussion, project, and assignment at CMU helped bridge the gap between theory and real-world business practice.
“The classes and the curriculum are the most exciting things about my program,” Kamireddy said. “I really enjoy the discussion boards where I get an opportunity to provide my point of view on a specific topic. It also provides me a chance to understand others’ points of view, allowing me to diversify.”
Her hands-on learning extends beyond the classroom. “My current role working as a data analytics and web content specialist in the university communication teams and the recent opportunity to work as a Graduate Assistant in the College of Business have been exciting and impactful,” she said. “These roles help me to prepare for my future career.”
“My experience here has helped me merge my background in law with new skills in business, analytics, and project management,” Kamireddy added. “The Graduate Assistantship has also given me leadership and teamwork opportunities, and I’m proud of how clearly it’s shaped my goal of pursuing a career in legal project management and business analysis.”
Community, culture and support
For Kamireddy, some of her most meaningful growth has come from her relationships with faculty and classmates.
“I really enjoyed interacting with all my professors and networking with my peers in each class,” she said. “Discussions with professors allowed me to expand my horizons and improve myself more with each class and discussion. Debates with my peers allowed me to learn more about everything and to understand others’ views.”
She said sharing her background and hearing from others has been one of her favorite parts of studying at CMU. “I really enjoy sharing my perspectives whenever I get a chance,” she said. “However, the most important part I look forward to is to hear from my peers who come from another country and to understand the pros and cons of a certain topic. I find this activity fascinating, and I always feel grateful to know about other perspectives and how curious everyone is to learn each other’s cultures.”
Growing through change with confidence and direction
“Studying abroad has been both exciting and challenging for me,” Kamireddy said. “It’s not just about academics, but also about learning to adapt to a new way of living. It definitely takes resilience, but every step has been worth it and really rewarding.”
She said her time at the CBA has given her both direction and confidence. “I wish to grow as a project manager in the legal sector,” she said. “The CBA provided me a solid plan of action through its interactive curriculum, which provided me not just the technical know-how but also boosted confidence in me to tackle my goals. I am really looking forward to what comes next.”
Advice and inspiration for future international students
Her advice for other international students is simple but heartfelt. “Be open to new experiences and don’t hesitate to get involved,” Kamireddy said. “The community here is so supportive, which makes the whole journey both exciting and rewarding. And my fun piece of advice is to never say never! You never know what doors might open when you take that first step.”
She added, “I wish I had known how quickly time flies! Every semester brings new experiences, so it’s important to make the most of every opportunity, whether academic, professional, or cultural.”
When she’s not studying or working, Kamireddy enjoys quiet moments outdoors. “My favorite study spot is definitely the Fabiano Gardens next to the library,” she said. “It’s such a peaceful space, and not just for studying but also for picnics. Sometimes my friends and I grab some food and just hang out there.”
As she looks toward her future in legal project management, Kamireddy carries with her not only new skills and confidence but also a deep appreciation for the community that helped her find her voice in business.
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