MBA student turns business theories into real-world opportunities

KALAMAZOO, Mich.—Driven by his strong desire to keep growing and stay curious, MBA student Chetanya Singla has drawn on his military training and ability to keep calm under pressure as he has pursued his passion for business after working in the granite industry. “My management experience made me realize how much I enjoy solving real operational problems,” he says. “I’ve always believed in one thing. I'm not going to stop learning, no matter how difficult the journey is. That mindset has been constant throughout my path.”

Now enrolled in the dual MBA program with Christ University in Bangalore, India, and Westen Michigan University’s Haworth College of Business, Singla is not only learning about improving efficiency and making meaningful decisions that impact a business, but he also gets to apply classroom learning to real-world opportunities with projects and collaborations with faculty and other students.

During his courses at Western, these hands-on projects give him a new way to critically think and approach problems to make better data-drive decisions that will be useful in his future career. Singla says the experiences make learning more tangible so he can put these theories into practice. 

WMU Haworth’s faculty and staff are approachable and genuinely interested in the student’s success, creating an environment that helps students stay motivated, becoming an easy decision for Singla to become a Bronco.

“Director of graduate programs Renuka Phillips has been incredibly supportive. Her guidance and encouragement have helped me stay focused and make the most of the opportunities around me. Having someone who believes in your growth makes a significant difference.”

Serving as both the president of the Indian Student Association and the vice president of Diversity Equity and Inclusion for Delta Sigma Pi, Singla has a direct role in create a sense of community and belonging for students. “Both roles have shaped me as a leader and given me the opportunity to make a positive impact on campus” says Singla.

Singla gives credit to his supportive family for being his constant source of motivation and strength, striving to make them proud with his success and accomplishments. 

“Studying abroad in the U.S. has taught me that I’m more adaptable and resilient than I initially thought. I’ve realized growth comes from consistently showing up and putting in the effort, even when things feel challenging.”

After he completes his MBA this fall, Singla plans to continue his education and earn a Ph.D. in business operations and supply chain management, seeking to deepen his understanding and even contribute to research within the field. He reflects on how his education has been more than an academic experience.

“It has been a transformative chapter of growth, leadership, and self-discovery. Through every challenge and opportunity, I have remained grounded in a simple philosophy. No matter how difficult my path may become, I will continue to learn, grow, and move forward.” 

Learn more about the WMU Haworth MBA program.

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