Life’s Pop Quiz: The Unexpected Lessons of Grad School Exams

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July 21, 2023 • 30 mins

Anish Merchant often recounts “The Hero’s Journey” — the story of a hero who goes on a grand adventure to find where he or she belongs. Stories like this inspired Anish to leave the U.S. in pursuit of his own grand adventure — one that helped him find where he belonged: in Buenas Aires, Argentina. Rather than this signaling the end of his journey, it was the birth of a new one. Anish’s new calling took shape in the form of his company, Merchant GMAT & Admissions, which helps students navigate the GMAT and, as an extension, life itself.

Episode Summary

02:53 - What is the meaning of Anish’s name?
03:39 - Anish explains how seeking adventure brought him to his new home — Buenos Aires, Argentina — and how it changed the trajectory of his life.
05:58 - What is it about Buenos Aires that resonated with Anish so much?
07:05 - Anish looks back on the origins of his company, Merchant GMAT & Admissions.
10:44 - How does Anish see the role of an MBA degree in a person’s life?
12:05 - Anish gives advice to students who see the GMAT or MBA as an end goal, and suggests that it’s simply a means to an end.
14:48 - As important as it is to know what you want to do, Anish stresses the importance of knowing what you don’t want to do.
18:47 - Anish compares the pathway to an MBA to the path you walk in life.
19:34 - How is the GMAT a metaphor for life itself?
21:40 - Anish breaks down problem-solving structures that are inherently present in the GMAT.
24:15 - Anish talks about how the fear of failure inhibits students from performing to their potential.
26:35 - Anish gives one last story on how working in international education has changed his life.
28:00 - Who is Anish’s favorite superhero (and what superpower would he want)?