College Experiences That Helped A Senior Product Manager At Amazon Succeed
Hema's undergraduate experience involved "trying a lot of things," including club leadership roles and volunteering, which broadened their network and self-understanding. This exploration of diverse interests and industries, exemplified by participation in "robotics competition[s] or…philanthropic activities," laid a strong foundation for a successful career in product management.
Career Exploration, Networking, Self-Exploration, Openness to New Experiences, Philanthropic Activities
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Hema Chalamalasetty
Senior Product Manager
Amazon
Indian Institute of Technology, Madras
UCLA Anderson, MBA
Engineering - Chemical
Technology
Product / Service / Software Development and Management
International Student, Immigrant, Worked 20+ Hours in School, First Generation College Student
Video Highlights
1. Hema's openness to trying many things in undergrad broadened her opportunities and network.
2. She emphasizes the importance of self-exploration to understand personal interests and preferences beyond academics.
3. Her involvement in clubs, leadership roles, and philanthropic activities contributed significantly to her career path.
Transcript
What did you do in undergrad to set you up for success in your career?
It's a good question. It's been a few years, so when I think about undergrad, I think I was very open to trying a lot of things. I think that definitely helped open up a lot of opportunities and the network I'm talking about.
For example, when I tried to understand different industries, I worked with a lot of people in my undergrad as part of a club, as a director, or as a VP. I worked with my classmates and seniors, and that definitely helped.
Another important thing during my undergrad was being able to spend time understanding what I liked and what I enjoyed, not just the education. It could be a robotics competition, or spending time on interests like sports or arts. It could also be volunteering. I was doing a lot of philanthropic activities.
So, investing time in a lot of things and doing a lot of self-exploration was key. I feel good about my undergrad, and even if given the choice, I would do the same. I also think a lot of people should definitely try spending time exploring different things and trying new things in their undergrad.