By Hale Education Group

Passionate about entrepreneurship and innovation, Nityashri Sankaran is also an ace tennis and chess player who enjoys dance, art, debating and public speaking. She will pursue an undergraduate degree through the World Bachelor in Business program at the Marshall School of Business, University of Southern California. The only undergraduate program of its kind, it offers students the option to study at three universities on three continents—a true global business degree.

An ardent volunteer, she is twice the recipient of the Sharjah Award for Voluntary Work. Education consultants would recommend that aspiring students learn from Nityashri’s devotion to her pursuits and her willingness to venture outside of the box.

"Teamwork and leadership are extremely important to me," says the student. With Hale’s help, she earned a spot at her choice of program. "I am so excited. Over the next four years, I will study in Italy, Hong Kong, and the US.”

Recently profiled in Friday Magazine, Nityashri presents a case study in how to leverage global experience with local impact to achieve collegiate dreams.

An edited transcript of the interview is below.

What inspired you to pursue this stream?

I participated and won an award in the Harvard Innovation Challenge, focusing on the power of businesses to rehabilitate society. After interacting with successful social entrepreneurs and creating my own social business, I was sure that this was what I wanted to do – help people. Also, I had earlier participated in a research program through the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Who were your mentors? What lessons did you pick up from them?

My parents were my biggest supporters. My mother always emphasised the importance of hard work and persistence. My business teacher at school is also a major motivator.

The five lessons I picked up:

1. Never give up: in the past, I have probably failed more times than I succeeded. But my determination to achieve my goals got me where I am today.

2. Practice time management: learning to juggle academics and extracurriculars is a tedious process, but scheduling and proper distribution of time makes the difference.

3. Believe in yourself: always believe that you are destined for great things.

4. Be a pioneer: don’t be afraid to think outside of the box.

5. Demonstrate humility: there’s no shame in seeking help and learning to accept it.

What made you choose business?

I would say it was my love for overcoming challenges and solving problems in the least possible time. Moreover, bearing leadership roles both at and outside school convinced me that I could excel in this field. In 2020, I organised a charity drive to help provide custodians for my school during the pandemic. The project was a huge success and proved that I could take on bigger challenges.

What did you look for in a college/uni?

Some factors I considered were location, cost, my major, the social scene and campus environment, and career prospects. USC was particularly attractive because of its large alumni network, which I was sure would be helpful to me in the future. The counselors at Hale provided me with all the information I needed and were extremely supportive.

How did you build your profile?

Colleges crave applicants who are academically proficient, well-rounded, and dream big. I’ve been involved in extracurriculars and social service since a young age, while achieving consistently good grades. It is important to find things you are passionate about and pursue them. I won the Sheikh Sultan Award for Inspiring Youth, which definitely raised my profile.

Additionally, develop a profile so it reflects your career interests. I took part in innovation challenges exhibiting my abilities as an entrepreneur. I also took a summer course at Harvard University, while also gaining experience through internships.

Your dream career?

To become a social entrepreneur and contribute to my community in the coming years.

- Hale Education Group