Shailendra Rai

Why did you choose the MBA program at the John Molson School of Business?

I chose the John Molson MBA program because of its strong focus on experiential learning alongside the core academic courses. What stood out to me was the opportunity to apply classroom strategies in real-world situations through case competitions, fostering business problem-solving experiences. I was also drawn to consulting opportunities such as the Concordia Small Business Consulting Bureau and the Community Service Initiative which provide practical consulting exposure while creating meaningful impact on communities and small businesses. In addition, the scholarships offered by the program and the overall return on investment for such a high-quality education were important factors in my decision. Montreal being one of the safest and most welcoming cities for international students also made my choice even easier.

Can you tell us about your experience with the Community Service Initiative and MBA 661?

I was selected to participate in the Community Service Initiative, where I worked in a team as consultants for an Indigenous organization to help increase its awareness and outreach among broader communities. It was a very meaningful experience because I had the opportunity to interact closely with the executive director and staff members to better understand the organization’s mission and challenges. Through the continuous guidance and support of the dedicated faculty assigned to us, we were able to evaluate our recommendations more effectively, understand how they aligned with the organization’s needs, and identify areas where we could improve as consultants. In addition, I learned about Indigenous communities, built connections with non-profit executives, and gained deeper insight into how non-profit organizations operate. Overall, it was rewarding to realize that the knowledge and skills I gained during my MBA could contribute positively to the community.

What made you want to get involved with the MBA International Case Competition?

The John Molson MBA International Case Competition is globally recognized, and I had heard a lot about the vibrant and dynamic environment it creates. I first joined as a core volunteer and later became part of the organizing team. I realized that being involved with the competition would help me build strong networks within the Montreal business community as well as internationally by interacting with students, coaches, and professionals from across the world. That expectation truly became a reality through my experience.

Can you talk about what the MBA ICC experience was like?

The MBA ICC experience completely reshaped the way I think about myself and my capabilities. Organizing an international competition involving participants from 12 different countries was both exciting and challenging. It gave me firsthand experience in working across multiple time zones and collaborating in culturally diverse environments. Through this experience, I developed stronger communication, coordination, and leadership skills while learning how to adapt quickly in fast-paced situations.

What was your most rewarding experience with CSI?

The most rewarding part of CSI was realizing that our work had created real value for the organization and contributed to helping them achieve their goals. It felt meaningful to see that the knowledge gained during my MBA could directly support community organizations.

It was also very rewarding when some of our recommendations were considered for implementation. As consultants, seeing ideas move forward shows that the research and effort put into the work had practical relevance.

What was the most rewarding experience with MBA ICC?

One of the most rewarding moments during MBA ICC was when coaches from different countries personally appreciated the overall organization of the competition. Hearing that feedback made me feel proud to have contributed to an event of such a global scale. Many coaches mentioned that they felt heard and included throughout the competition, which was especially meaningful to me. I realized that creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for participants from around 30 teams is an important leadership skill, and I was happy to contribute to that environment.

What impact did these experiences have on your professional skill set and career goals?

Experiences from experiential learning opportunities gave me valuable exposure to international platforms and helped me grow both professionally and personally. I was able to build meaningful connections with people from different industries and countries, which I believe will continue to help me learn and grow throughout my career. Participating in real-world experiential opportunities also increased my confidence, as they helped me sharpen my skills and better understand how my experiences are relevant and valuable within the Canadian professional environment.

What would you say to someone considering an MBA at the John Molson School of Business?

I would strongly encourage students to actively participate in experiential learning opportunities during their MBA journey. While these experiences can be challenging, the program also provides strong support systems to help students navigate them successfully. These opportunities allow students to explore their interests, develop practical skills, and gain valuable exposure that can truly support the career paths they aspire to pursue.