Business Analysis Manager, Ericsson
Hathikal, who has been with Ericsson for more than four years, works as a business consultant in the networks strategy planning group of the organization. While at UT Dallas, she led a busy life that included serving as secretary of the JSOM Consulting Club and membership in the Entrepreneurship Club (E-Club). As an alumna, she has been mentoring the JSOM YES Club at UT Dallas, which is a student chapter of International Association for Human Values. The club aims to create a socially responsible community that can impact humanity holistically. Members also aim to decrease their own stress and anxiety and improve their focus and productivity by learning yoga and meditation.
What do you enjoy about your current position?
In my current position, I get to work with multiple stakeholders within as well as external to the organization. On one side, I learn about technology and business and on the other side, I help customers with business cases and recommend solutions. Ericsson provides a myriad career growth opportunities. Ericsson also gives me opportunities to volunteer and mentor in programs such as Young Women in Science and Engineering.
What is a professional highlight of your career, either where you work now or in the past?
As an intern at Ericsson, I was recognized as “Intern of the Week” during my third week of my internship. This recognition gave me so much encouragement and supercharged me to work hard and smart in order to contribute to the organization. That’s when I realized the value of rewarding an employee!
Why did you come to UT Dallas?
After three years of working as a software engineer in India, I wanted to learn more and expand my skills in the entrepreneurial area. I decided to pursue an MBA at a U.S. university. I found the Full-Time MBA program at UT Dallas very promising, based on its mentorship program, class size, time commitment, post-MBA career opportunities and faculty. I applied to the program and was accepted.
What is your favorite UT Dallas memory?
The YES+ Workshop is one of my favorite memories at UT Dallas. It’s a three-day workshop that I attended during which I learned yoga, meditation and a breathing technique – which I continue to practice regularly. The workshop is conducted by YES Club at UT Dallas, a student organization. The workshop provided me with techniques to manage stress, stay positive and improve my productivity. I became so close to the club that I still mentor club members.
Did a UT Dallas professor inspire you?
Being an international student adds intensity to the MBA program. However, the MBA office staff, specially Joanna Fowler (MBA admissions director) and Lisa Shatz (assistant dean for MBA programs), were so helpful and supportive and made my whole MBA journey a much better experience. I am grateful to Professor Jeffrey Hicks, who supported my interests in consulting and guided me on best consulting approaches. I learned a lot from my MBA classes and each professor added to my success as a student.
Has something about your UT Dallas education surprised you since graduating?
My journey at UT Dallas has led me to always consider how my actions might impact someone’s life. Even a small contribution can make a big impact. The YES Club at UT Dallas Murthy Scholarship has been a result of this thought process. This idea – that even a small contribution can have a large impact – inspired Harish Babu, my husband, Krishna Bang, Radhika Rajput and I to come together with the idea of this scholarship to help with someone’s education. The scholarship has been name after Murthy Ganapathibotla, a fellow YES club member, who passed away in a tragic accident in 2016. Murthy always wanted to give back to the community and create a means for educating students in need. We sincerely hope this scholarship makes his wish come true.
What advice do you have for college students hoping to succeed professionally?
I feel personal connections are important and soft skills are critical. Stay humble. Continuously ask yourself, “What can I do for others?” and “How can I add value?” Be responsive. Smile often. Don’t give up. Try hard. Always try to make a positive impact on others while you strive for personal growth.
What makes an effective leader?
Trustworthiness is one of the most important things to look for in a leader. A leader leads by example, empowers his/her people and enables them to grow. Being inclusive and recognizing everyone, even for their smallest achievement makes one a great leader.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
I really enjoy mentoring students. I’m also very involved with yoga and meditation, which contributes to my overall health and well-being. I also enjoy volunteering for causes, traveling and playing outdoor team sports.
