My Personal States Journey

From India to Penn State and Beyond. After earning my Bachelor's degree in Engineering in India, I took a bold step and left a full-time job to pursue a Master’s in Business Analytics at Penn State's Smeal College of Business. Moving to the U.S. in 2022 was a significant transition, but I was ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that awaited me.

At Penn State, I didn’t just immerse myself in academics—I actively sought out roles that would broaden my experience. As a Graduate Programs Admission Assistant, I guided prospective students through their application journeys. I also served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for Business Intelligence courses and took on the responsibility of Risk-Management Exam Proctor. Additionally, I was honored to be a Graduate Student Ambassador, where I supported and mentored incoming students. Balancing these roles with my studies honed my time management, leadership, and communication skills.

In 2023, after earning my degree, I joined Airlift USA as a Product Operations/Business Analyst. In this role, I leverage the skills I acquired at Penn State to conduct competitor analysis, identify customer needs, and drive sales and business growth. It’s fulfilling to see how my academic background directly contributes to the company’s growth.

Despite the demands of a full-time career, I make it a priority to maintain a healthy work-life balance. I enjoy staying active at the gym, exploring new destinations, experimenting with different cuisines in the kitchen and practicing self-care through mindfulness, yoga and journaling. These activities keep me grounded and energized, allowing me to excel both professionally and personally.

Reflecting on my journey from India to Penn State and beyond, I realize it has been challenging, yet incredibly rewarding. I’m eager to see where this path will lead me next.

Microsoft's Blueprint for a Market Comeback

Microsoft's Strategy for Growth. Microsoft, once a dominant force in the tech industry, has seen its influence wane in the PC market due to a lack of product growth and innovation. To reclaim its leadership, the company must make strategic upgrades, particularly in its internet browser and cloud computing services.

The Challenge: Declining Market Share

Microsoft's stagnation is evident in its declining presence in the PC market and its struggles with its internet browser, Microsoft Edge. Despite improvements, Edge has failed to compete effectively with Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox. Additionally, while Microsoft Azure has gained some ground in cloud computing, it still lags behind competitors like AWS and Google Cloud.

Strategic Recommendations

1. Upgrade the Internet Browser: Microsoft needs to significantly enhance Edge by improving speed, security, and user experience. This could help recapture market share and attract a new generation of users.

2. Enhance Cloud Computing Services: To compete with AWS and Google Cloud, Microsoft should focus on expanding Azure's features, particularly in AI, machine learning, and data analytics. Integrating Azure more seamlessly with other Microsoft products could also create a more cohesive user experience.

Conclusion

Microsoft's future success hinges on its ability to innovate. By focusing on these key areas, the company can regain its competitive edge and reassert itself as a leader in the tech industry.