So what exactly does it take to make it to a top 10 university in the US? How hard do you have to slog? What kind of attitude do you have to build? Any shortcuts you can take? Well - after talking to Arnav Anand - one thing is clear - start thinking about it early - and don’t just follow the herd - do what you think you should be doing - be it GRE prep, university selection, etc. We spoke to Arnav Anand, who graduated from the University of Wisconsin, Madison with a Masters in Manufacturing Systems Engineering with Engineering Manangement, in 2008. Here is what Arnav had to say:

1. Which program did you come to study in the US, which university and when?
AA: Manufacturing Systems Engineering with Engineering Management at University of Wisconsin Madison, 2006-2008

2. What was your undergrad institution of study?
AA: Mechanical Engineering, Delhi College of Engineering

3. Why did you make the plunge into grad school?
AA: My summer internship and the Mini Baja Project presented me an opportunity to stay in US for 3 months at Houston just after my 3rd year. This short experience convinced me there is a lot of learning opportunity not just from the college education but the culture, challenge to make an impression in a foreign land,…..etc (whole package which with the masters) convinced me for a master’s in US over MBA in India.

4. How do you think your time at the US University has helped in taking your forward in your career?
AA: Most importantly it has diversified my perspective and helped me develop as a better person.

5. How did you prepare for GRE?
AA: Just mugged up the Barons Words list

6. What other universities have great programs in Manufacturing Systems Engineering/Engineering Management?
AA: Georgia Tech, Stanford MSE, Wharton (Operations Management), MIT LFM, etc…

7. What advise would you give to youngsters, students who are trying to get into US universities?
AA: Look for good internships right from 1st year. Start thinking about the question what do you want to do. Set your goals and start working towards it (MBA, MS, dream job, etc..). Setting the goal is important and just don’t follow the herd mentality. Gud Luck.