After beginning her academic journey in Bihar and building an early career in India, Neha Prakash chose the SPJIMR’s Global Management Programme (GMP) as her pathway to an international MBA. Today, she works in the United States, contributes to the field of AI and cybersecurity, presents at global conferences, and actively mentors aspiring professionals. In this interview, Neha reflects on the decisions that shaped her journey, the transition to studying abroad, and the lessons she believes every future GMP participant should embrace.
“I always wanted to build a career where I could combine technology with management.”
Tell us about your early years. What inspired your academic and professional journey?
I completed my schooling in Bihar until Class 10 before moving to Bokaro, Jharkhand, to prepare for engineering entrance examinations. I have always been ambitious and wanted to create opportunities through education. After securing admission to NIT Jamshedpur, I worked in India for two years before deciding to pursue an MBA abroad.
My father was one of my biggest inspirations. As the first graduate in his family, he overcame many challenges to build a successful career and eventually retired as General Manager at NHPC. Watching his determination and commitment to learning motivated me to aim higher and pursue leadership opportunities of my own.
What motivated you to pursue an international MBA?
From early in my career, I knew I wanted to move beyond purely technical roles into positions where I could contribute to strategic decision-making. An MBA felt like the natural next step.
Studying abroad added another dimension to that ambition. I wanted to learn alongside people from different countries, understand diverse perspectives, and experience how businesses operate across cultures. That global exposure was just as important to me as the academic qualification itself.
Why did you choose SPJIMR’s Global Management Programme (GMP)?
The SPJIMR’s Global Management Programme (GMP) stood out because it offers the opportunity to study abroad while preparing students for a smooth transition to an international partner university.
The six months at SPJIMR provide a strong academic foundation before students study abroad at an international partner university. The curriculum is rigorous, the credit transfer process is well structured, and the programme equips participants with the knowledge and confidence needed to adapt to a new academic and cultural environment. Knowing that SPJIMR has established partnerships with internationally recognised universities gave me additional confidence in choosing the programme.
Looking back, what are your strongest memories from your time at SPJIMR?
There are many.
Academically, learning from experienced faculty and studying alongside talented classmates created an environment that constantly challenged me to perform better. The pace of the programme also taught me how to manage my time effectively, a skill that continues to benefit me professionally.
Beyond academics, some of my favourite memories came from celebrating festivals together, building lifelong friendships, and participating in volunteer activities where we taught school students. Those experiences made the journey far richer than classroom learning alone.
How was the transition from GMP to studying in the United States?
The transition was not completely straightforward, particularly because I moved just before the COVID-19 pandemic. Adjusting to a new country naturally took time.
However, the academic preparation at SPJIMR made adapting to a different education system much easier. I also stayed in touch with seniors, whose advice helped me prepare mentally before relocating.
Being naturally curious and outgoing helped me settle into life in the United States. I enjoy learning about different cultures and meeting people from diverse backgrounds, and that mindset made the transition much smoother over time.
How has an international MBA shaped your personal and professional growth?
Professionally, my international MBA opened doors to opportunities that aligned with my long-term career goals in technology and management. It also strengthened my professional network and gave me opportunities to organise, attend, and present at international conferences.
Personally, the experience helped me become far more confident. Living independently in another country encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, overcome my fears, and communicate my ideas more effectively. Those experiences have shaped not only my career but also who I am as a person.
Tell us about some milestones in your career since completing the programme.
I have been recognised by Women in Tech for promoting women in engineering and was featured on my organisation’s official platform for this contribution.
Alongside my professional role, I have presented and published research papers that explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, served as a panellist at industry events, judged professional awards, and mentored graduating students. These opportunities have allowed me to contribute to the wider technology community while continuing to learn from other professionals.
How did SPJIMR continue to support you after graduation?
The support did not end when I graduated.
SPJIMR has continued to encourage me as an alumna, whether through guidance, networking opportunities, or simply staying connected. Knowing that the institution continues to invest in its alumni has been invaluable throughout my career journey.
What advice would you give to students considering the GMP?
Make the most of every opportunity the programme offers.
Learn not only from your professors but also from your classmates, seniors, and the programme team. Ask questions, seek feedback, and remain open to different perspectives. Every interaction is an opportunity to learn, and the willingness to accept constructive feedback has been one of the biggest contributors to my personal and professional growth.
Looking back, what does the GMP journey mean to you today?
The GMP was much more than a pathway to an international MBA. It challenged me academically, broadened my perspective, strengthened my confidence and prepared me for a truly global career.
For anyone aspiring to study abroad while building a strong management foundation in India, the SPJIMR Global Management Programme offers an experience that continues to create value long after graduation.
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