Master studies provided a deeper understanding of the business aspects of the industry

Snehal Bopardikar is an Automation Engineer, who is driven by a passion for exploration and innovation. She is originally from India, where her professional journey started after graduation when she was working at Executive Engineering at Siemens India.

Since then, Bopardikar has had the opportunity to work in various European countries like Germany, Belgium, Austria, France, and now Finland. In Finland, she worked on Nuclear Automation Engineering at Olkiluoto 3. Now, she works as a Business Unit Manager at Rejlers in Espoo, Finland, where she leads her team with passion and dedication, always looking for new solutions.

How and why did you choose to study in your field?

First and foremost, my decision to pursue engineering stemmed from my love for mathematics and problem-solving, coupled with the vast employment opportunities it offers not only in India but globally. Additionally, I recognized the increasing significance of digitalization in today's world. After gaining experience in the technical realm, I felt drawn towards the business aspects of the industry. Hence, when I discovered the MBA program at Haaga-Helia specializing in Leading Business Transformation with a focus on Digital Business Opportunities, I knew it was the perfect fit for me.

I distinctly recall applying solely to this program and experiencing nervous anticipation during the entrance exam, which included a business report, case study questions, group discussions, and interviews. However, I am immensely grateful for being selected for the program, and I now eagerly anticipate the myriad opportunities it will bring in my current role and any future challenges I choose to undertake.

What has it been like to study at Haaga-Helia?

Despite the stringent deadlines set for each program, I must commend the meticulous planning and thorough research evident in the course structure. The abundance of resources provided by the professors spared me the need to seek external materials, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. Whether delivered online or offline, the quality of instruction remained consistently high, a testament to the program's excellence.

Moreover, the inclusion of external lectures by industry experts enriched our understanding with practical insights, augmenting theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. The blend of group projects and individual study sessions was particularly effective, offering opportunities for collaborative learning as well as independent exploration.

Balancing a full-time job alongside the demands of the MBA program presented its challenges, especially in meeting assignment deadlines. However, I am grateful for the understanding and flexibility extended by the professors, who accommodated my occasional need for extra time, especially during periods of frequent travel. I made a conscious decision to pursue both a full-time MBA and employment, hence meticulously planning my days and weeks to ensure the timely completion of the program within the designated two-year timeframe.

Did anything in particular surprise you during your studies?

I was genuinely taken aback when the opportunity to participate in the CERN (The European Organization for Nuclear Research) program for two weeks presented itself. Visiting CERN had always been a dream of mine, and thanks to Haaga Helia, that dream became a reality. The objective of the visit was to develop a prototype aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, and to my delight, it was a resounding success.

During my time at CERN, I had the privilege of exploring the antiparticle research area, touring the Large Hadron Collider factory, and engaging in insightful discussions with numerous esteemed scientists. I am immensely grateful to Haaga Helia for making this extraordinary experience possible. From the depths of my heart, I extend my heartfelt gratitude.

Is there any particular memory from your studies that you recall?

One course that remains vivid in my memory is "Conscious Leadership," as it delved deeply into self-awareness, guiding me to uncover my authentic self. The invaluable lessons learned continue to resonate, offering profound insights that positively influence both my personal and professional life daily.

What kind of support did your studies give you for your future and professional life?

As I am currently employed at Rejlers, I am actively applying the insights gained from the course in our operations. Moreover, my thesis focused on digital business transformation within the company, and I'm pleased to note that progress along this transformative path has been steady. Looking ahead, I am confident that the knowledge and credentials acquired through this journey will not only facilitate my success but also open doors to exciting new opportunities in the future.

Greetings to current or future students

For anyone considering pursuing an MBA with a technical focus, I wholeheartedly recommend this program without reservation. It offers comprehensive insights into business, AI, data analytics, and emerging technologies that are shaping and will continue to shape the world. However, I emphasize that while the studies undoubtedly provide valuable knowledge, the ultimate impact on your career will be determined by your proactive approach in applying and adapting this knowledge to your advantage.