We recently caught up with Himalaya Kadari, a second-year MSEM student pursuing the systems engineering track. She tells us about taking advantage of internship opportunities, the impact of the Hospital Project, and why she recommends the MSEM program.
Why did you decide to pursue an MSEM degree?
I initially planned to come to the US to study mechanical engineering, but my experience working alongside my father to launch our startup completely shifted my perspective on what I truly wanted to learn. During that journey, I realized how much more effective I could be if I had a comprehensive understanding of how businesses actually operate, rather than relying on my own instincts or assumptions. I wanted to broaden my horizons, see how I would respond to a variety of real-world challenges, and explore established approaches that professionals use to address complex problems.
Himalaya and MSEM cohort at the Seimens facility during the Immersion Program in Denmark.
At the same time, it was important for me to remain connected to my engineering roots—something I’ve always been passionate about. That’s when I recognized that an MSEM degree would perfectly align with my goals, offering a balance of engineering, business, and leadership skills. Furthermore, the MSEM program at Hopkins caught my attention because it emphasizes hands-on projects in addition to the traditional curriculum, allowing me to “learn on the go” through practical, team-based experiences. Ultimately, pursuing an MSEM felt like the ideal path for expanding my skill set, gaining real-world insights, and positioning myself to contribute on both the technical and strategic sides of an organization.
What is your most memorable moment throughout your time in the MSEM program?
There have been a lot of memorable moments or as I like to say, “core memories” throughout the program, but one in particular really stands out. It was the first time my team and I did a consulting project with Johns Hopkins Hospital. I’d never done anything like that before, so it felt like novel thinking at every step – trying to figure out the exact problem and how we could address it.
I remember, about two weeks before the project wrapped up, I conducted an interview with
Himalaya and her team presenting deliverables to their project partner during the Patient Safety Collaboration Initiative (Hospital Project).
someone from the admin staff, and it ended up turning into a root-cause analysis session. We discovered specific patterns and trends that were causing the hospital’s issue, and it was so fulfilling to realize that I could propose a strategic recommendation to drastically reduce that problem. It boosted my confidence and made me fall in love with consulting.
Ever since that moment, I’ve absolutely loved tackling problems like these, and it’s what made this particular consulting project truly unforgettable.
Tell us about your co-op experience. Did your internship prepare you for your future career or open your eyes to a wider range of career options?
I joined UpSurge Baltimore in the summer of 2024 as a strategy and operations intern, my first experience with a startup ecosystem–building organization. Working here has been profoundly impactful and deeply fulfilling.
Himalaya and her colleagues at UpSurge Baltimore during her internship experience.
I led a team of three interns to benchmark Baltimore’s ecosystem against four other cities in strategic planning, data metrics, communications, and marketing. I also implemented automation and operational improvements for existing programs.
In the fall, I worked for a website called BMore Tech Connect, enhancing features, launching new ones, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders to broaden user engagement through marketing analytics. This co-op immersed me in strategy, communications, and analytics, core areas I’ve been studying at Hopkins.
Working in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment reaffirmed my aspiration to pursue strategy-oriented roles, allowing me to introduce fresh ideas, refine processes, and optimize operations. At UpSurge, my attention to detail and observant mindset were essential for identifying gaps and proposing innovative solutions. Meanwhile, my project management skills grew significantly as I learned to prioritize tasks that require deep, focused thinking versus those suitable for an iterative approach. I also sharpened my communication strategy skills, discovering how to effectively inspire others to collaborate toward shared goals.
What are your plans after graduation?
I would love to be part of an organization where I can take on a strategy-focused role, whether in consulting, product management, or strategy and operations. My internship experiences have reinforced that I thrive in forward-thinking environments that encourage open communication and mutual respect. I enjoy working on real-world challenges, executing solutions, and refining processes along the way.
Himalaya and UpSurge team at the Washington Monument.
In the long run, if I come across a compelling problem to solve, I’d love to build my own venture and put my skills to the test. The MSEM program has given me the tools, perspective, and confidence to take on strategic roles where I can make a meaningful impact.
Would you recommend the MSEM program to other students who are considering a postgraduate degree? Why?
Yes, I would definitely recommend the MSEM program, especially for anyone aiming for strategy or managerial roles in tech companies. It not only strengthens your technical and analytical skills through the technical track but also provides a comprehensive understanding of business and decision-making via the management courses.
What I love most is how all the courses work together, you develop a framework-based approach to problem-solving, learn how to prioritize effectively, and operate in a fast-paced environment. It might not be obvious at first how each piece fits, but as you progress through the program, everything starts to click. The curriculum is designed so that classes like Professional Presentations enhance what you learn in Strategies [for Innovation and Growth], and the hands-on projects offer real-world practice with diverse teams and industries.
By the end, you’ll see a real shift in how you think and act, along with practical experience that prepares you for real-world challenges. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking to combine technical expertise with business acumen and step into roles where you can make a genuine impact.