International Student Stories brought to you by Study in the USA
Join us as current and former international students and higher education professionals share their unique and diverse experiences, dreams and journeys. We’ll explore the impactful things these students and educators bring to the world, thanks in part to their studies in the U.S.
International Student Stories brought to you by Study in the USA
Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of Grad School Exams
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Study in the USA
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Season 3
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Episode 6
Anish Merchant often recounts “The Hero’s Journey” — the story of a hero who goes on a grand adventure to find where he or she belongs. Stories like this inspired Anish to leave the U.S. in pursuit of his own grand adventure — one that helped him find where he belonged: in Buenas Aires, Argentina. Rather than this signaling the end of his journey, it was the birth of a new one. Anish’s new calling took shape in the form of his company, Merchant GMAT & Admissions, which helps students navigate the GMAT and, as an extension, life itself.
Episode Summary
- 02:53 - What is the meaning of Anish’s name?
- 03:39 - Anish explains how seeking adventure brought him to his new home — Buenos Aires, Argentina — and how it changed the trajectory of his life.
- 05:58 - What is it about Buenos Aires that resonated with Anish so much?
- 07:05 - Anish looks back on the origins of his company, Merchant GMAT & Admissions.
- 10:44 - How does Anish see the role of an MBA degree in a person’s life?
- 12:05 - Anish gives advice to students who see the GMAT or MBA as an end goal, and suggests that it’s simply a means to an end.
- 14:48 - As important as it is to know what you want to do, Anish stresses the importance of knowing what you don’t want to do.
- 18:47 - Anish compares the pathway to an MBA to the path you walk in life.
- 19:34 - How is the GMAT a metaphor for life itself?
- 21:40 - Anish breaks down problem-solving structures that are inherently present in the GMAT.
- 24:15 - Anish talks about how the fear of failure inhibits students from performing to their potential.
- 26:35 - Anish gives one last story on how working in international education has changed his life.
- 28:00 - Who is Anish’s favorite superhero (and what superpower would he want)?
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