Current student Srivathsan Rengaraj is in his final semester of the MSEM program. We caught up with Srivathsan to learn more about his experience at Hopkins, including traveling abroad to work with startups in Portugal during the Immersion Program and interning for companies like Torc Robotics.
Why did you decide to pursue an MSEM degree?
After completing my undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering, I began my career as an autonomous vehicle software engineer. Driven by my passion for cutting-edge technology, I embraced the steep learning curve as an opportunity to grow and push beyond my comfort zone. As I progressed in the role, I earned a spot in a corporate accelerator program, which allowed me to take on responsibilities beyond core engineering and sparked my interest in leadership and strategic decision-making. Pursuing an MSEM degree felt like the natural next step—a chance to build on my applied software engineering experience through the technical track while integrating business acumen to prepare for broader and more impactful responsibilities in the future.
What is your most memorable moment throughout your time in the MSEM program?
Srivathsan and classmates at the Instituto Pedro Nunes in Coimbra, Portugal during the Immersion Program.
One of the most memorable experiences during my time in the MSEM program was the consulting engagement with a startup hosted by the Instituto Pedro Nunes in Coimbra, Portugal as part of the Immersion Program. My team and I were tasked with developing a market expansion and pricing strategy for Spotlite, a leading provider of satellite-based risk monitoring solutions for infrastructure assets. This project helped us to apply our knowledge to a real-world business challenge while collaborating with an international client—a truly enriching experience.
The two-week consulting engagement demanded agility. It was during this project that I realized how much I had grown since starting the program just a semester ago. The foundational concepts, frameworks and communication skills I had learned gave me the confidence to approach the project methodically, making the process feel second nature. This experience not only highlighted my personal growth but also reinforced the value of the MSEM program.
Tell us about your co-op experience. Where did you intern and what did you enjoy most about it?
My co-op experience at Torc Robotics has been excellent! While I had previously worked on developing safety-critical systems, my time at Torc was the first opportunity to view technology exclusively through a safety lens. This shift in perspective was both challenging and rewarding, deepening my understanding of the pivotal role safety plays in the development and commercialization of advanced technologies. Being based at Torc’s headquarters in Blacksburg gave me the opportunity to engage with individuals across all levels of the company and immerse myself in a culture defined by innovation, open communication, and teamwork. The collaborative environment fostered both personal and professional growth while offering invaluable insights into cutting-edge advancements in the industry. Alongside the strong mentorship from my team who are at the top of their game, I thoroughly enjoyed learning from some of the most talented and passionate experts in the field while contributing to groundbreaking technology.
What skills did this internship help you to develop and what did you learn in the MSEM program that you applied to this internship?
Srivathsan riding in a Class 8 truck with autonomy engaged on public roads during his internship with Torc Robotics.
The co-op helped me to apply the critical thinking and problem-solving skills I gained from my Strategies for Innovation and Growth and Fundamentals of Product Management classes. These courses equipped me with tools to break down complex problems systematically and use engineering judgment to draw meaningful conclusions—skills that have been invaluable during my time at Torc. Additionally, I have gained hands-on experience in data modeling and analysis, cloud computing, and agile development methods, which complement my academic coursework in these areas. This practical exposure has strengthened my ability to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, enhancing both my technical proficiency and decision-making abilities.
Would you recommend the MSEM Program to other students considering a postgraduate degree? Why?
Srivathsan with MSEM classmates.
Absolutely—especially for professionals with at least a few years of work experience under their belt! One of the standout aspects of the MSEM program is its flexibility, allowing students to tailor their learning experience to align with their personal aspirations and career goals. The program empowers students to tackle complex problems through the lens of innovation and business while simultaneously strengthening their technical expertise.
As a cohort-based program, it fosters meaningful interactions through collaborative projects with faculty and peers from diverse backgrounds, helping students build lasting relationships.