Monika Ahluwalia: World Bank Employee Receives Quality Business Education at MSU
Monika Ahluwalia has earned two degrees within the college of Business; a Master’s of Accountancy and a Master’s of Business Administration. She attended classes for both programs on the Missouri State campus between 2003 and 2006. Her current position, as Head of Treasury Operations at the World Bank Office in Chennai, India, allows her to put classroom experiences into practice as she leads her team effectively and efficiently.
The following story has been shared here via the Missouri State University Alumni Spotlights page.
Degrees: Bachelor’s in finance and accounting, University of Delhi, 1993; Master of Business Administration with an emphasis in finance, Missouri State, 2005; Master of Accountancy, Missouri State, 2006
Why I chose Missouri State: I had a friend who was at Missouri State. I wanted to earn an MBA in the U.K. or U.S., and he highly recommended Missouri State due to its value and quality, and the fact that you get a multicultural perspective because there are international students. Then I found out about the AACSB accreditation, which assured me of the quality of the program. I was on campus from 2003 to 2006.
My favorite course at MSU: It has to be some of the finance ones — it is difficult to pick just one! For sure, one of my top choices would be the class on derivatives with Dr. Susan Crain. It was the first time I studied derivatives, and I saw how they work and how complex they are. All of my courses somehow contributed to my progress. I am using all of the knowledge I gained on topics including strategy, organizational behavior and international accounting.
Why MSU was a great value: I earned scholarships and was a graduate assistant. I was glad those types of opportunities are available for graduate and international students.
Why I would recommend MSU to other students from India: I experienced a high quality of education, and the professors were dedicated and very approachable. As for studying in the U.S., the way education works in the States is different than India. You will get a new perspective and the chance to interact with other international students and Americans.
My job with the World Bank: I have a team of 25 people who perform functions such as accounting, financial reporting, reconciliation, settlements, etc., and who support our counterparts in Washington, D.C.
Why finance is my passion: I come from a family of accountants and finance professionals. My dad worked at a bank, and both my brothers are CPAs. My entire work background has been in finance, and I am a CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) charterholder.
How Missouri State faculty and staff showed they wanted me to succeed: The professors I worked with showed that, deeply and personally — especially Dr. Kent Ragan. He was my sponsor for the CFA exam. If not for his support, I don’t know if I would have earned the certification. He was always available and approachable. He helped me with any questions I had, as did any professor I approached in the finance department.