Joydeep Bhattacharya

The MBA Degree That Helped Me Dream Bigger

My name is Joydeep, I am from India. Earlier this year, I completed my MBA in Finance in partnership with Woolf. Currently, I am working as a software engineering lead in the tech industry where I design AI solutions, mentor junior developers, and contribute to the strategic direction of our products. Outside of work, I spend time on side projects and follow financial markets closely — it’s a hobby that now feels a lot more informed.

When I was looking for an MBA, I didn’t want something purely theoretical. I wanted a program designed for working professionals, with real-world application baked in. Woolf offered exactly that: interactive case studies, live mentor sessions, and a cohort model that created accountability and momentum. The curriculum didn’t just ask us to absorb information, it asked us to use it.

One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the practical case work. We analyzed real financial events, applied valuation models to actual companies, and discussed market shifts in live sessions. We got to read about financial theory and live it. That kind of hands-on engagement made the concepts real and helped me build a toolkit I use daily.

The MBA also made a significant difference in how I approach both personal finance and professional collaboration. I now invest more confidently, with a sharper understanding of risk and long-term growth. At work, I can speak the language of business strategy — whether it's reading a P&L, assessing go-to-market plans, or understanding economic headwinds. It’s made me a more well-rounded contributor and leader.

One project in particular stands out to me: my three-person group assignment where we developed a new product pitch. We came from completely different backgrounds and time zones, and pulling it all together remotely was no small feat. I had to overcome my own hesitation around public speaking and by the time we delivered our final presentation, I felt more confident than ever. That project truly felt like a breakthrough and its impact has been instrumental to my life.

If you’re considering a Woolf program, my advice is this: treat it as a skill-building journey, not just an academic checkpoint. The curriculum is manageable even with a full-time job, and if you put in a few focused hours each day, you’ll see real growth. The mentors and peer community are incredibly supportive — don’t hesitate to reach out when you hit a wall.

Looking ahead, I’m continuing to grow in my current role while laying the groundwork for a long-term goal: launching my own tech-product company. The strategic clarity and confidence I’ve gained through Woolf are already helping me think bigger — about products, markets, and how to build something that lasts.