Vidit Chaudhary talks about why he didn’t want to study in India but equally did not want to leave Asia
Vidit Chaudhary is the co-chairman of the management consulting club at Nanyang Business School. Before his MBA he had six years of work experience from Capgemini, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and Accenture. He talks about what made him want to study outside of his native country, India and why Singapore is such a brilliant country to study in.
Vidit, 28 grew up in Delhi, India and studied for his engineering undergraduate degree in Delhi. After graduating he joined Accenture where he worked for more than three years in Bombay, Bangalore and Australia. “After a year in Australia with Accenture I returned to India and worked for PwC doing two years of management consultancy with clients ranging from logistics, transportation, retail and chemicals.”
Next for Vidit was a year spent working at Capgemini before he realised he wanted to study for an MBA. “The seeds were there for a long time. When I was working for PwC as a senior consultant I realised I needed an MBA. I was doing an MBAs role but got there not because of degree but because of experience. Most MBAs in PwC, who were from premium colleges in India, were more sellable to clients because of their degree. “The degree was a sufficient differentiator and helped place these employees on a fast track career paths not only within the company but also outside. An MBA also gave them the flexibility to move within the different divisions, a luxury I strived to have but did not have even with 5 years of industry experience”MBAs are rated very highly in India, much more so than in Singapore explains Vidit. “If you have an MBA from a top tier or second tier business school in India that you have an advantage in the job market.”
When the time came for Vidit to think about which business schools to attend he only looked within Asia, “primarily for monetary reasons but also I only wanted to be in Asia. Asia is the place to be – it’s a place where all the action is. I have no dream to be in Europe or America and even though I had the opportunity of Australia, I didn’t want to leave Asia.”
Vidit looked at the National University of Singapore (NUS), the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and Nanyang Business School. “I got admission from all of them but I decided on Nanyang. I spoke to some Indians in Hong Kong who said that language was a barrier and people speak in Mandarin or Cantonese even though English is the official language. I would be required to speak in local language and deal in Cantonese, consulting is always done in the local language and I don’t believe you can learn that language fluently enough.”
After speaking to Nanyang alumni he realised how flexible the course was; “you can complete the MBA in 12 months or 16 months, there was a flexibility of combinations. I felt spoilt with choices. I also have an engineering background and Nanyang gives you the option to do specialisations in technology.” Vidit also says that at NUS the batch is much bigger and there are many more Indian students, “Diversity is important as it empowers absolutely everyone. I wanted to get an international MBA and wanted to join a diverse classroom.”
Nanyang alumni also reiterated the idea that when you are studying in Singapore you are studying for an international MBA not a local MBA. The Nanyang MBA has 60 cohorts from 20 different countries and is very diverse, “people talk about things you wouldn’t have even imagined before. Its learning from your peers who come from diverse industries, countries and cultural backgrounds” The Nanyang staff all know your name and know your career background, Vidit says this is a level of attention you would never get at an Indian School such as ISB. “Further, smaller classroom size facilitates greater interaction with professor and stimulates learning. I would prefer to make 100 friends than make 600 acquaintances. “
Vidit researched the diversity at ISB and found that in a class of 100 there would be one American, “and it would probably be a green card holder with an Indian background, the business school is lacking the culturally diverse backgrounds.”
Singapore has suited Vidit well and he says that it is an easy country to be an Indian in, “favourable to Australia as it is a very safe place to be. Food can occasionally be a bit of an issue for Indians but in Singapore there is a diverse range of food.” Vidit states that it is easy for Indians to find work in Singapore, 10% of the Singaporean population are Indian, “there is a high standard of living, a high life expectancy rate and no racism. Sometimes in the US and Europe you experience racism but here there is no discrimination. For Indians looking for a job the easiest place to find a job would be Singapore.”
Nanyang has impressed Vidit, “the teaching is amazing and the faculty impressive. We have PhD’s from Harvard, those who have held positions in the treasury, currently on boards of many banks and they come to teach us! Last term one professor teaching Strategy Formulation is the CEO of a large hospital in Singapore and he comes and teaches us in the evening. This trimester we have an ex-BCG partner who is teaching us Strategy Implementation”
After his MBA Vidit plans to return to the consulting industry but hopes to find himself in a different role. Ten years from now he hopes to be running his own company back in India. “India is definitely the place to be if you want to set up your own company as it is just growing so quickly. We used to have IBM and Accenture outsourcing to India through the U.S. but now Indian companies require their work to be done. IBM and Accenture are now working for clients in India. There is a lot of scope for development with India’s growth rate.”
Read more about students, alumni and programmes at Nanyang Business School, here. Discover MBA jobs on our MBA Jobs page
Student Reviews
Good campus life and extra-curricular activities
This is a great place to learn and interact with more like-minded people. The campus is something that stands out to me. The infrastructure is great and the university is very well-built. There is lots to do on the high campus, from a large number of eating joints to the numerous clubs and sports activities. I also quite like Singapore as a country, as there is so much to do around not very far from campus. The educational facilities are extremely good, there are lots of opportunities to take on research projects and do industrial projects, which I really enjoy. The only thing I dislike about NTU is that the number of international students is really low and I would like to see a larger international intake in the future. Definitely recommend for the amazing educational facilities and on-campus social life.
An international campus that provided diverse choices for students
It's a beautiful campus with a high degree of internationality, providing diverse choices for students in terms of research opportunities and career consultation. Also, scholars are knowledgable and very inspiring, and are good at motivating the thinking of students.
Great University
In overall, the university has met my expectations with its wonderful lectures and research staff. However, there are some issues with the administrative side, i.e. administration may give you different answers on the same question. Also, the university’s website often provides outdated information and it takes time to get what you need; perhaps there is not enough people for managing it.
Good resources
I would recommend. Good resources for research. Knowledgeable professors and instructors. Conducive environment for studying and doing assignments. Helpful staff and faculty. Food options are good. An overall good place to study.
inefficient communication and lack of transparency
The administrative team at the university is slow to respond and is often inadequate in their responses and solutions. The uni is also unclear and resistant to explain their actions and motivations when carrying out policies or when questioned
Formative experience for success
NTU prioritizes giving students ample time for independent research. The academic schedule consists of 6–7 weeks of study, followed by a week without classes, allowing students to catch up on any material they may have missed. This is succeeded by another 6–7 weeks of study, culminating in a week dedicated to final exam preparation and exams.
The curriculum is designed to be student-friendly, minimizing burdens such as excessive assignments, projects, exams, quizzes, and attendance requirements. This approach affords students the freedom to pursue personal interests and self-development. In my experience, each of the four courses I took had a comparable workload, typically comprising 2 assignments, 3 easy labs, 2–3 quizzes (some without), and 1 final exam.
In contrast, comparable courses at other universities often entail significantly heavier workloads, including 3 homework assignments, 5 projects, 5–6 pop-up quizzes, mandatory attendance, 2 midterms, and 1 final exam. Moreover, each project typically demands 3–4 days of work.
It is hard work, but it pays off.
Academic atmosphere
Nanyang Technological University offers a vibrant academic atmosphere that fosters innovation and excellence. The strong emphasis on research and practical learning equips students with real-world skills. Positives include access to state-of-the-art facilities, collaborative projects, and a diverse student body. However, the competitive environment can be intense, leading to high stress levels. NTU's academic atmosphere encourages growth but requires resilience to thrive.
Diverse professors
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I have been extremely impressed with the quality of education I have received. The professors are knowledgeable, approachable, and passionate about their subjects, which makes learning engaging and enjoyable.
The teaching styles vary from lecture-based to interactive discussions and group projects, providing a well-rounded learning experience. The use of technology in the classrooms also enhances our understanding of the course material. One of the things I love about NTU is the diversity on campus. Not only are there students from all over the world, but the professors also come from various backgrounds, making the learning environment truly global. English is the main language spoken on campus, which makes it easy for international students to feel at home. In terms of examinations and coursework, the workload can be challenging at times, but the support from professors and classmates makes it manageable. The exams are fair and assess our understanding of the material effectively.
Video lectures
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I am extremely impressed with the transportation options available on campus. The buses and shuttles make it easy to get around the huge campus. The beautifully landscaped garden campus adds a peaceful and scenic vibe to studying. The facilities, from the state-of-the-art labs to the comfortable study spaces, are top-notch. The video lectures are a convenient and effective way to supplement classroom learning.
Focus on science
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) excels in its focus on engineering and science degrees. The curriculum is robust, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical applications. Professors are industry experts, providing invaluable insights. State-of-the-art facilities enhance learning experiences. Opportunities for research and internships abound, fostering innovation and professional growth. NTU's emphasis on cutting-edge technology prepares students for real-world challenges. NTU's commitment to engineering and science education is unparalleled, shaping tomorrow's leaders in these fields.
great canteens
While at Nanyang Technological University, I can confidently say that the quality of education here is excellent. The professors are knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, and the curriculum is challenging yet rewarding. The campus itself is green and natural, providing a peaceful and inspiring environment for learning. The canteens offer a wide variety of delicious and affordable food options, catering to different dietary preferences. From local delights to international cuisines, there is something for everyone. The student housing facilities are also well-maintained and comfortable, providing a home away from home for students. NTU's reputation as a top-ranked university is well-deserved, with cutting-edge research and a strong emphasis on innovation.
high quality education
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a top-notch educational institution that offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students. The campus is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, and the faculty members are highly experienced and knowledgeable in their fields. As a student at NTU, I have had a positive experience so far. The university provides a conducive learning environment and encourages students to think critically and creatively. The campus is vibrant and diverse, with a strong sense of community among students and staff. I would definitely recommend NTU to prospective students looking for a high-quality education in a supportive and stimulating environment. The opportunities for research, internships, and extracurricular activities are plentiful, and the university is committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for future success.
Student experience
As a student at Nanyang Technological University (NTU), the experience is vibrant and enriching. Surrounded by lush greenery, the campus offers a serene environment for studying and relaxation. While parties and nightlife options are available, the focus leans more towards academic pursuits. The campus buzzes with activities, clubs, and events, catering to diverse interests. However, the tuition cost is competitive, offering value for the exceptional education and resources provided. I recommend my university
High quality of life
As a student at Nanyang Technological University, I'm thoroughly impressed with the quality of education. The faculty is highly knowledgeable and supportive, fostering an engaging learning environment. Tuition fees are reasonable for the value provided. The campus food options are diverse and delicious, catering to various dietary preferences. The transport system is efficient, with easy access to public transportation. NTU offers a high quality of life, combining academic excellence with a vibrant campus culture.
good value for money
At Nanyang Technological University, I find the tuition fees reasonable considering the quality of education and resources provided. The university offers diverse programs, experienced faculty, modern facilities, and opportunities for research and internships. While tuition costs are substantial, the value for money is evident in the comprehensive learning experience and the potential for career advancement. NTU delivers on its promise of excellence, making it a worthwhile investment in one's future.
Educational experience
I am a student at Nanyang Technological University and I am thoroughly impressed with the quality of my program. The lectures are engaging, delivered by knowledgeable professors who make complex concepts easy to understand. The classroom setup is modern and conducive to learning, with interactive technology enhancing the educational experience. Exams are challenging yet fair, testing our understanding and critical thinking skills effectively. In my leisure time, I appreciate the vibrant campus life, with a variety of clubs, events, and facilities to explore, fostering a well-rounded university experience.
Studying in Singapore
Nanyang Technological University in Singapore is an incredible place to study. The campus is vibrant and modern, with excellent facilities. Academically, the university offers a wide range of programs taught by top-notch professors who are experts in their fields. The emphasis on practical learning through internships and research opportunities adds immense value to the education here. Outside of academics, student life is equally fulfilling. The campus is alive with various clubs, societies, and events. It's easy to find like-minded individuals and form lifelong friendships. The multicultural environment exposes students to different perspectives and cultures, enriching their overall experience. Singapore itself is a fantastic city for students. The efficient public transportation system makes it easy to explore the vibrant food scene, cultural attractions, and green spaces that the city has to offer. Safety and cleanliness are top priorities, making it a comfortable place to live and study.
Balancing studies with leisure activities is manageable, thanks to the plethora of options available.
research-centric culture
I'm thrilled to be a part of NTU's vibrant academic community, where innovation is paramount and scholarship is elevated. The university's unwavering commitment to research fosters an environment of discovery, experimentation, and collaboration. The faculty's zeal for knowledge and cutting-edge facilities ensure that students are equipped with the latest tools and methodologies to drive groundbreaking findings. I've had the opportunity to participate in several research projects, which has not only honed my skills but also prepared me for a career in academia. NTU's emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches has also allowed me to explore diverse fields and think creatively.
Rewarding experiences
Accommodation facilities are modern and well-maintained, providing a comfortable living space for students. The student life here is dynamic, with a strong sense of community and camaraderie among students. The faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, offering quality education and mentorship to help students excel academically. In terms of job prospects, NTU has a stellar track record of producing successful graduates who are highly sought after by employers. The university's strong industry connections and career services support students in securing internships and job placements. When it comes to nightlife and entertainment, the campus offers a wide range of activities including concerts, performances, and social events. The food options are diverse and delicious, catering to various tastes and preferences.
Comprehensive and supportive
NTU excels in its exceptional organization and responsiveness. Before each semester begins, students receive comprehensive schedules, including exam dates, allowing for effective preparation. The university is highly responsive to queries, typically replying within a day, and provides robust support. NTU also offers remarkable opportunities for exposure, such as internships and research positions, exemplified by my internship at an energy research institute through my dissertation. However, while the professors are highly knowledgeable, the emphasis seems to be more on research than on teaching quality, suggesting room for improvement in that area. Overall, NTU offers a well-organized, supportive, and opportunity-rich environment, though enhancing the focus on teaching could further improve the student experience.
Global job market
Studying at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has been a transformative experience. The campus buzzes with innovation and energy, reflecting NTU's commitment to excellence in education and research. The state-of-the-art facilities and labs provide ample opportunities for hands-on learning, which has been crucial in preparing me for my career. The diverse student community fosters cultural exchange and collaboration, enriching my academic journey. NTU's strong industry connections also offer numerous internship and job opportunities, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped for the global job market.
Student experience
Nanyang Technological University (NTU) offers an unparalleled academic experience coupled with a vibrant campus life. The campus itself is sprawling and beautifully landscaped, providing a serene yet stimulating environment for learning. The resources and facilities available are top-notch, from advanced research labs to extensive libraries stocked with every resource imaginable. What truly sets NTU apart is its strong emphasis on global perspectives, with a diverse student body and opportunities for international exchanges and collaborations. The professors are leaders in their fields, inspiring and pushing students to achieve their best. Beyond academics, NTU offers a rich tapestry of clubs, societies, and events that ensure a fulfilling student life. NTU has not only equipped me with knowledge but also with lifelong friendships and memories.
