Nthanda

Playing Pinball last night took me back to my childhood-playing games like Pinball, Solitaire and Minesweeper on my mother’s computer. It made me think of my upcoming summer internship with Microsoft’s Xbox team; where I will be working as a Business Development Manager. This role resonates deeply with my journey from childhood gaming in Malawi to technology initiatives. I am excited to leverage my unique perspective as an African tech professional to enhance the gaming industry while contributing to innovation and global experiences.

In April 2022, I found myself serving as the youngest Malawian fulltime professional at the UN Headquarters, and I began my role as an Evaluation Analyst with the UNDP. As I pivot into private sector, I find myself reflecting on milestones which included raising $74 million for the global SDG Synthesis Coalition. I am excited for the new journey with Xbox, and I look forward to bringing my experience in global stakeholder engagement and knowledge management to Microsoft.

MBA studies focus on managing established organizations and minimizing risk, which can conflict with the needs of entrepreneurs who thrive in uncertainty and require creativity. While MBAs provide valuable skills for scaling businesses, aspiring founders should seek additional experiences that foster innovation and adaptability to succeed in entrepreneurship.

Securing an MBA internship is pivotal for career growth, combining practical experience with academic insights. The process involves crafting a tailored CV, leveraging referrals through networking, preparing for interviews, and conducting effective follow-ups. By adopting strategic approaches and learning from experiences, candidates can enhance their prospects in the competitive U.S. job market.