Ishita Talreja MBM 2024 web

Ishita Talreja

Inspired by her father’s business success, Ishita pursued a Master of Business and Management at the University of Waikato, equipping her with the skills and confidence to chase her entrepreneurial dreams.

Agra, India

Ishita Talreja MBM 2024 web

Growing up watching her father run a shoe manufacturing company back home in India, Ishita Talreja aspires to follow in his entrepreneurial footsteps.

Completing a Master of Business and Management (MBM) degree at the University of Waikato was a natural step towards Ishita's goal of entering the corporate world and then starting her own business.

“When I came across the MBM programme in the prospectus, it instantly resonated with me. The course structure aligned perfectly with my goals and interests and, after further exploration, I realised the University of Waikato was a place where I could grow both academically and personally,” says Ishita.

She says the MBM degree has been instrumental in deepening her understanding of business operations, strategy and management. One highlight of the course was developing, refining and pitching a business idea for a Dragon’s Den competition.

Ishita received the Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship for India which contributed towards her tuition fees at Waikato. She was also chosen to be the official student speaker at her graduation ceremony.

While studying, Ishita worked as a promotion host for the marketing team at SkyCity Entertainment Group, which helped her to settle into her new environment.

“Moving to a new country, navigating unfamiliar environments and balancing studies with work taught me resilience, adaptability and the importance of staying open to new experiences. Over time, I found my footing and made meaningful connections,” says Ishita.

“The welcoming environment of Waikato, supportive staff and diverse student community made it easy to feel at home despite being far away from my family.”

Ishita plans to use the skills and knowledge she has gained to find business roles within established organisations while she gains hands-on experience.

“My goal with this degree is to first immerse myself in the industry and understand the business landscape. Entrepreneurship is a long-term aspiration – right now, I am focused on learning and growing within the professional world."

Ishita Talreja MBM 2024 web