Alisha Agrawal, MBA 2026
Hometown
Jersey City, NJ
Undergraduate
School: Pennsylvania State University
Major/Minor: Supply Chain Management / Information Systems
Previous Industry
CPG - Meal Kits / HelloFresh
Summer Internship
Apple, Inc.
Specializations at Stern
Brand Management & Corporate Finance
Student Clubs
President, Graduation Marketing Association
VP Blocks, Stern Student Government
VP Admissions, Stern Women in Business
How did you prepare for the program before you began it?
Before starting at Stern, I did a lot of research around the types of internships and roles I wanted to pursue, especially as someone pivoting into a new function. I spoke with current students and alumni to understand how they navigated recruiting and made the most of their time at Stern. This gave me helpful perspective and allowed me to come in with more clarity and direction around how I wanted to shape my experience, both academically and professionally.
What moment made you realize Stern was the home for you?
The moment I realized Stern was home was during my first few weeks on campus when I saw how genuinely supportive the community is. Whether it was MBA2s volunteering their time to help me prep for interviews, professors going out of their way to make sure we understood course content, or classmates sharing resources without hesitation, I felt surrounded by people who truly wanted each other to succeed. That combination of collaboration, warmth, and ambition made me feel like I had found the right place to grow both personally and professionally.
What class/professor has made the deepest impression on you?
Hands down, Professor Adam Alter left the biggest impression on me. I took his Marketing class my first semester, and it honestly changed the way I look at Marketing -- now I can’t watch a commercial or walk through a store without analyzing everything. He made class super engaging, relatable, and fun, and I still reference his insights all the time in conversations and interviews.
What advice do you have for prospective students?
My advice: be curious, be open, and don’t stress about having everything figured out on day one. The MBA journey is as much about exploration as it is about direction. Talk to people, say yes to things that scare you a little, and trust that your path will unfold as you go. Also -- lean into the community! Sternies are some of the most supportive and inspiring people you'll meet, and they'll be your biggest cheerleaders along the way.
What advice would you give your first semester self?
Your Google Calendar will look like a Tetris board by week 1—classes, coffee chats, club kickoffs, and that random info session you swore you weren’t going to attend. Just remember: you’re not only here to recruit, you're here to live your MBA. Make space for the happy hours, late-night hang outs, and spontaneous group chats that spiral into lifelong friendships.
Who makes up your chosen family at NYU Stern?
Definitely my Block 6 fam -- they’ve been my people since day one. And also a group of amazing ladies I recruited for Marketing. We went through the ups and downs of the process together, and they’ve become some of my closest friends here.
How has Stern prepared you for the recruiting process?
Stern set me up for recruiting success in so many ways - from the structured career prep through IGNITE and the Careers office, to the endless support from MBA2 mentors, professors, and club leaders. Being part of the Graduate Marketing Association gave me access to mock interviews, resume reviews, and real talk about what to expect. But honestly, it was the people - the way everyone wants to see you succeed and is willing to help - that made all the difference. I never felt like I was doing it alone.
How would you describe the Stern community?
Stern is full of brilliant people (the IQ is real), but what makes it special is the EQ. People genuinely care. They’ll help you prep for interviews, check in on your mental health, and save you a seat when you’re running 5 minutes late to class. It’s the kind of place where ambition and kindness actually hang out.