Breaking Stereotypes and Defying Limits: My WBS journey

MSc Management alumni, Meghana Surampudi, talks to us about her time with us WBS and how it helped shape her career so far.

Coming from a small village in Andhra Pradesh, India, where the idea of a girl aspiring to high ambitions was often met with resistance, I knew I wanted more. In an environment where societal expectations were limiting and opportunities seemed distant, I made a conscious decision to break those stereotypes.

Pursuing an MSc at Warwick Business School wasn’t just about advancing my career—it was about creating possibilities that once felt unreachable.

A background in design thinking

A defining moment in my journey was being selected as a University Innovation Fellow at Stanford University. Immersing myself in design thinking during an inspiring week at Stanford’s d.school which not only fuelled my ambition, but reinforced my desire to push boundaries and think big.

My time at Stanford solidified my passion for innovation, and when I began evaluating MSc programs, I knew I needed more than just a degree. I wanted an education that would provide me with the tools, insights, and mindset to navigate a rapidly evolving business landscape.

WBS stood out to me not just for its academic reputation but for its promise of a course that transcended textbooks and theories. I was looking for a place that would challenge me help me grow.

My Master’s experience

The learning at WBS extended far beyond academic knowledge. I was encouraged to think holistically—considering not only immediate outcomes but also the long-term consequences of decisions. This emphasis on sustainable solutions has become an invaluable asset in my professional life, enabling me to approach challenges strategically and with a broader view in mind.

The course was designed to reflect real-world scenarios, with group projects that allowed me to apply theory directly into practice. Every module I undertook taught me critical lessons about leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the importance of diverse perspectives in problem-solving. These experiences shaped not only my knowledge but also the way I think and act professionally.

One of the highlights of my time at WBS was an international trip to Milan, where I was introduced to the world of luxury brand management. It was an incredible experience, meeting inspiring personalities and gaining insights into a fascinating industry. That trip is one of my most cherished memories, a time I will forever hold dear.

Building my career

In my current role in the Global Alumni Engagement team at WBS, the skills I developed during my MSc have been invaluable., I manage communications and collaborations with key stakeholders, including alumni, industry leaders, and academics, ensuring that communication across diverse teams is both effective and strategic.

My work also involves a strong focus on data analysis, process improvement, workflow optimisation and cross-functional collaboration to enhance operational efficiency.

What truly excites me is the opportunity to work closely with industry leaders and academics on areas I’m passionate about, like design thinking and sustainability.

I first learned about design thinking at the Stanford school, and WBS further fuelled my passion for innovative problem-solving. I’m thrilled to apply these principles in my daily life work scenarios, ensuring the solutions are both creative and user-centred. Sustainability is a key aspect of my work, as I lead initiatives aligned with long-term goals, ensuring that our projects have a lasting positive impact.

WBS instilled in me a drive for innovative problem-solving, and I’m thrilled to apply these principles in my daily life work scenarios, ensuring the solutions are both creative and user-centred. Sustainability is a key aspect of my work, as I lead initiatives aligned with long-term goals, ensuring that our projects have a lasting positive impact.

Planning my future

As I look to the future, I’m excited about the possibilities. WBS taught me the value of continuous learning and strategic thinking, which will guide me as I take on more leadership responsibilities.

My goal is not only to further my career but to inspire others—especially young women from similar backgrounds—to believe in their ability to dream big and achieve those dreams. I want to show that no matter where you start, you can define your own path.