Doubling my MBA knowledge with the PIM Exchange

As a member of the Partnership in International Management (PIM) Network, Warwick Business School Full-time MBA participants are offered the opportunity to extend their study and apply for an exchange at one of our partner business schools. 

Manprit shares why McCombs School of Business, University of Texas, a leader in CleanTech and energy studies was the ideal exchange for him.

What is the PIM Exchange?

The PIM Exchange is an incredible opportunity for MBA students to study at a partner institution abroad, experience a different academic and cultural environment, and expand their global perspectives – basically doubling your MBA experience.

Why did you choose to apply for the PIM Exchange?

I applied for the PIM Exchange to enrich my learning experience, explore diverse teaching styles, and grow my global network. I planned to go to the USA because of the country's reputation for academic excellence, the opportunity for coursework customisation, and the networking prospects. My choice to study at McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas at Austin was no coincidence. Known for its leadership in CleanTech and energy studies, McCombs aligns perfectly with my professional background in the energy sector and my aspirations. Texas, often regarded as the energy capital of the world, was an ideal destination. Its vibrant energy ecosystem presented a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the industry and learn from the best.

What did you study during the Exchange?

During my time at McCombs, I focused on addressing knowledge gaps by taking two finance courses: Advanced Corporate Finance and Energy Finance. These courses provided deep insights into financial strategies and their practical applications in the energy industry.

Additionally, I enrolled in Opportunity Identification, a course taught by Professor John Doggett, who has been a cornerstone of McCombs for over 30 years. I’d heard that if you're at McCombs, you must take at least one class with Professor Doggett, and the experience certainly lived up to the hype!

What co-curricular opportunities were there on your Exchange?

McCombs offered a vibrant array of co-curricular activities. Career events, networking opportunities, and student clubs were all part of the experience. The international office organised regular events where I met students from various programs, allowing me to expand my global network and gain new perspectives.

I also joined the CleanTech Club, which became a significant part of my experience. The club hosted industry interactions and social events, including a monthly "CleanHappy Hour," where professionals from the CleanTech sector joined for informal networking.

What was life like outside the classroom?

The McCombs community was incredibly welcoming and inclusive. Early in the semester, a classmate hosted a tailgate party before a university football game. This gathering helped me connect with many students, and attending an American football game with over 100,000 fans, complete with an F-16 flyover, was nothing short of surreal.

The international office also organised fun events like a bowling day and a boat cruise on the Colorado River, fostering connections among exchange students.

Beyond university life, I made the most of my time in Texas. I learned to swim at one of the largest pools in the U.S., improved my tennis game, and explored stunning national parks. One unforgettable highlight was witnessing a SpaceX rocket launch and catch event in southern Texas after an overnight road trip—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What was your favourite part of the Exchange?

The diversity of people and experiences truly made the exchange unforgettable. Our cohort comprised 22 students from 18 different countries, creating an incredible melting pot of cultures and perspectives. One of the highlights was our cultural dinners, where we shared local cuisines and traditions, fostering a deeper appreciation for each other's backgrounds.

We also participated in an International Night, where classmates set up booths to showcase their culture and food. This vibrant event was followed by cultural performances, making it a lively celebration of diversity. These moments, along with shared trips and unique experiences, wove a rich tapestry of memories that I’ll always treasure.

Would you recommend future Full-time MBA participants apply?

Without a doubt! The PIM Exchange is a unique opportunity to expand your knowledge, experience a global academic environment, and immerse yourself in a new culture.

For me, studying in USA, was invaluable. While the exchange comes with costs (primarily for accommodation), tuition fees are waived—a huge saving, considering that studying at UT Austin would typically cost over $30,000 for a semester. Although visa restrictions limited job opportunities in the U.S., the connections I built and the knowledge I gained made the exchange more than worthwhile. Finally, I would say that PIM is an investment in your personal and professional growth.