Up Next

ki-logo-white
Market-Based Solutions to Vital Economic Issues

SEARCH

Kishore Ramaraju

MBA 2021

What are you looking forward to the most as a UNC graduate?
After my MBA, I want to continue working hard and expand my network to eventually become a thought leader in the life sciences industry and contribute to UNC’s strong reputation in healthcare. As a Tar Heel, I want to make a positive impact both as an individual and as a leader in the organizations I represent. I aim to translate the learning experiences shared with fellow KFBS students around building diverse and inclusive teams into the real world. I am proud to represent UNC Kenan-Flagler students who are motivated to make a significant impact in the business world.

What advice would you give to incoming and current students?
The most important lesson in my MBA is to be bold in every interaction you have, across recruitment, social setting or academics. To be bold, one needs to first believe in their strengths and recognize value of experiences prior and during the MBA. I advise students to be humble and put aside ego during interactions. Everyone you meet as part of the program has lots of valuable experiences to share and are open to learn from each other. As an international student, it was difficult to for me to be bold while adapting to a new culture. However, fellow students, and career coaches/ mentors at UNC have helped me identify strengths and encouraged me to be not too hard on myself.

What made you decide to pursue a career in healthcare?
I have been a data nerd since undergrad and always enjoyed solving complex problems. After undergrad, I joined ZS Associates for their strong focus on data analytics. It was challenging and fulfilling to impact patients’ lives across the world by developing solutions that increase availability of and access to essential drugs, all while ensuring sustained profitability for the clients. The complex nature of the healthcare landscape and the potential to impact people have motivated me to pursue a career in healthcare. With the convergence of biotechnology with other emerging technologies such as AI and ML, I am very excited to work in the life sciences industry post my MBA.

What are the top two items on your bucket list?
First would be to go on a stargazing trip to Patagonia. I unfortunately could not make time to visit when I was in Argentina a couple of years back. Second, I’m a passionate supporter of the Arsenal football club. Although right now they are not doing that well, hopefully I’ll get a chance to watch them play at the Emirates Stadium in London one day.