Prarthana Kejriwal Adds Analytics to Her Career Equation

Prarthana Kejriwal (MSBA 2021) has always been drawn to solving complex problems, which initially led her to job roles tackling supply chain and product management challenges. But as her career progressed, she noticed one common theme: data was at the core of every decision.

“No matter what field you’re in, you can’t avoid data. You need to understand it,” says Kejriwal. “Everything I knew about data, I had learned on the go, and it wasn’t as technically sound or structured as I wanted it to be. I realized that to truly grow, I needed formal education in analytics.”

She sought a more versatile skill set, choosing the Foster School of Business Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program as the foundation for her next career leap to T-Mobile, and later, Google.

Applying classroom skills in a dynamic career at T-Mobile and Google

Since earning her MSBA, Kejriwal has advanced in business analytics, applying the skills she gained at Foster in a fast-moving industry. She has worked across media analytics and business strategy, using data to drive high-level decision-making at T-Mobile. Now, she is a Data Transformation Lead at Google. Her ability to bridge the gap between business needs and technical solutions has been a key factor in her career growth.

“The coursework from Foster is just so practical,” she says. “We had classes in everything from machine learning to marketing analytics. Whatever you’ve studied, you know you’re coming here and broadening your knowledge in that area.”

As AI-driven analytics continue to evolve, Kejriwal sees Foster’s emphasis on a learning mindset as one of the most valuable takeaways from the program. “Today, it’s AI, tomorrow, it could be something else,” she says. “But what Foster helped me build is that learning mindset: asking the right questions, knowing how to think about data, and balancing the business aspect.”

A future-proof education

For prospective students considering the MSBA program, Kejriwal emphasizes taking full advantage of everything Foster offers, from its expert faculty to its career services and active alumni network.

With a strong foundation in analytics, a mindset of continuous learning, and a commitment to staying engaged with Foster, she exemplifies how the right education can propel a career forward in the data-driven world.

“The curriculum is so relevant,” she says. “It amazes me how quickly Foster adapts to what’s happening in the industry. It keeps students at the forefront, no matter what changes come next.”

A clear choice for career growth

Kejriwal grew up in a family that valued education and analytical thinking. Her father encouraged her to approach problems methodically, while her mother instilled a love of learning. These influences shaped her academic and career journeys.

Before Foster, Kejriwal already held an MBA and had built a strong foundation in business. But as she looked ahead, she saw the increasing importance of analytics across industries. Rather than follow the expected path of specializing in supply chain management, she sought a different skill set. “It was funny because people assumed I would do a Master of Supply Chain Management,” she recalls. “But an MSBA is a very broad program. You can apply business analytics knowledge to the fields of finance, HR, marketing, or any other field. It’s such a transferable skill.”

She chose Foster for its strong reputation, hands-on learning approach, and the vibrant professional network in Seattle. Known as a hub for technology and innovation, Seattle felt like the perfect environment for her next chapter. “If you’re in Seattle and say you’re a Foster alum, you don’t have to introduce yourself further,” she says. “It’s so easy to build connections.”

Prioritizing real-world application

Launching into her business analytics studies, Kejriwal appreciated Foster’s ability to support students. Participating in case competitions, she worked on real-world business problems with teammates from diverse backgrounds. She says these experiences not only sharpened her analytical skills but also reinforced her ability to collaborate across different areas of expertise.

She particularly appreciates the emphasis on practical application in Foster’s curriculum. “The focus was so much more on the learning itself, and not on things like grades or deadlines,” she says. “The primary takeaway was always learning.”

Faculty members like Associate Teaching Professor Russell Walker played a pivotal role in creating an industry-relevant learning environment. With guest speakers from across the country, Kejriwal’s cohort gained firsthand insights from professionals shaping the future of analytics.

Support for the next step

As she prepared to transition from business school to the job market, Kejriwal leaned heavily on Foster’s career services. From mock interviews to job hunting advice to resume reviews, the support she received played a key role in her success.

“The career department at Foster is just incredible,” she says. “Whether it’s building a LinkedIn profile, your portfolio, or your resume, you can reach out to them for anything.”

Her capstone project, which partnered with Microsoft, gave her a compelling real-world experience to discuss in job interviews. The timing was ideal, as she could highlight the project’s impact while actively applying for roles in business analytics. She credits this experience with helping her stand out to employers and ultimately landing the job at T-Mobile.

Giving back to the Foster community

Kejriwal remains committed to mentoring the next generation of Foster students. Whether through participating in networking events, leading capstone projects, or simply responding to LinkedIn messages from prospective applicants, she finds fulfillment in giving back.

“So many people helped me when I was a student,” she says. “I just want to give back to the current students and to Foster because it’s been such a stepping stone in my career.”

Learn more about the MSBA here.