Yashwardhan Joshi is a third-year double majoring in finance and economics at the Fisher College of Business from Mumbai, India. Joshi took time to share insights into his experience at Ohio State.
How did you choose Ohio State?
Choosing a university as an international student required meticulous consideration, with two key factors guiding my decision: academic excellence and a vibrant student culture. Ohio State fulfilled all my criteria. The university's diverse and expansive international student community was a major draw, offering countless opportunities to connect with peers from around the world. Additionally, gaining direct admission to the prestigious Fisher College of Business provided a distinct advantage, as a Fisher degree holds significant value both within the U.S. and internationally.
How was the process of joining the Ohio State community?
Navigating the international admissions process can be challenging, but Ohio State offered outstanding resources to support me throughout my journey. The India Gateway in Mumbai was instrumental from the beginning. As soon as I received my admission offer, they reached out to provide invaluable guidance during the document submission process. The Gateway organized informative seminars with current students and assisted with official paperwork, making the entire process much smoother. After arriving on campus, the upperclassmen I connected with through the seminars became another essential resource. They generously shared their expertise in understanding my specialization sheet, selecting courses, and even helping me get involved early in relevant organizations. A key lesson I learned is that every member of the Ohio State community can be a valuable resource. Don’t hesitate to seek help; it reflects a proactive approach, not a weakness.
What academic adjustments did you experience at Ohio State?
One of the biggest adjustments for me was the reliance on online textbooks through Carmen. This user-friendly portal amazed me with its efficiency, consolidating all my classes, deadlines, grades, and announcements in one place The collaborative learning style here has also been a pleasant surprise. Unlike the individual approach at my previous institution, most classes at Ohio State emphasize in-class discussions and teamwork. Working in groups on major projects has been an excellent way to connect with classmates and rapidly develop my teamwork skills.
How do you set yourself up for success?
I use digital tools to schedule meetings and stay organized, ensuring that I allocate sufficient time for academic commitments, extracurricular activities, and networking. By setting clear priorities, I've been able to focus on tasks that require immediate attention while also nurturing relationships that are vital to my personal and professional growth. This approach has allowed me to balance my educational pursuits with building a solid support system, enriching my overall college experience.
What resources are available on campus?
The International Affairs office has been invaluable in guiding me through the CPT (Curricular Practical Training) and OPT (Optional Practical Training) processes, providing insights into internship opportunities and ensuring a seamless transition. The Office of Career Management has been crucial in honing my interview skills and preparing me for career fairs. Participating in the Indian Students Association has fostered a strong sense of community and allowed me to celebrate and connect through vibrant events like Holi, Diwali and Independence Day.
How has Ohio State prepared you for life after college?
For me, college is not just about academics; it’s about overall growth and development. Through valuable mentorships, I have gained insights from experienced professionals who offer guidance and advice tailored to my career aspirations. Engaging with diverse people from various backgrounds has enhanced my interpersonal skills and broadened my perspectives, preparing me for the global workforce. College is shaping me into a well-rounded individual, ready to make a meaningful impact in my chosen field.
What safety measures are in place at the university?
Feeling safe is a top priority, and Ohio State certainly delivers. The campus feels secure with 24/7 police patrols. As an office assistant in the residence hall, I have witnessed how quickly they respond to emergencies. Even living off-campus, I’m not on my own—the Off-campus Living office provides free safety devices like door and window alarms and Birdies (personal alarms) for added peace of mind. Additionally, the university keeps everyone informed with alerts about any incidents in the area.
How are your internships preparing you for a career in finance?
After my freshman year, I had the opportunity to intern at Centrum Wealth Management as an equity research summer analyst. Centrum is one of the largest wealth management firms in India, and this experience allowed me to dive deep into the world of equity research and gain valuable insights into financial markets. Following my sophomore year, I interned at Everstone Group as a private equity summer analyst with their Climate Impact Fund, Eversource Capital. Eversource is one of the largest renewable energy investors in India and Southeast Asia, and working there provided me with a unique perspective on sustainable investments and the future of clean energy. These internships have been pivotal in shaping my career path, allowing me to apply my academic knowledge to real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions to the industry.