Simit Shah worked as a consultant for Deloitte in India before enrolling in the MSIM program to strengthen his analytical and business skills. Over the summer, he applied the knowledge gained from his iSchool coursework during an internship as a technology risk consultant at EY.
Why did you decide to pursue an IM degree?
I chose to pursue an Information Management degree because I'm passionate about the intersection of technology, data, and business strategy. In today's world, data is a critical asset, and I wanted to develop the skills to transform raw information into actionable insights that drive decision-making. The MSIM program provides the perfect balance between technical skills and business acumen, allowing me to make an impact in both tech-driven and strategic roles.
Why did you choose the iSchool?
The iSchool at Illinois stood out to me because of its interdisciplinary approach, strong industry connections, and emphasis on real-world application. The curriculum is flexible and innovative, combining data science, information systems, and business intelligence. The opportunity to learn from faculty with deep industry experience, collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, and access the extensive alumni network made Illinois the ideal choice for my academic and professional growth.
Which particular IM topics interest you the most?
I am particularly interested in information consulting and applied business research. These areas allow me to combine analytical thinking with strategic planning to solve real business problems. I enjoy working with clients to understand their needs, analyze data, and develop actionable solutions that can drive meaningful change.
What do you do outside of class?
Outside of class, I’m an active member of the Illinois Business Consulting (IBC) organization, where I get hands-on experience with real clients in various industries. I also love participating in product and consulting hackathons, where I get to collaborate with other students to build creative, impactful solutions under pressure. Additionally, I enjoy playing sports at Campus Recreation, which helps me stay active and connected with the campus community.
What career plans or goals do you have?
My long-term goal is to become an entrepreneur. I aspire to build a venture that leverages technology and data to solve real-world problems. In the near term, I plan to gain experience in consulting or product management to strengthen my business and technical foundations, while continuously exploring innovative ideas that could evolve into a startup opportunity.