Hawa Sultani ’21 (MBA): Maximizing the MBA Experience
As a pre-med student who had her sights set on a future in medicine, Hawa Sultani’s career trajectory took a dramatic turn when she decided to forgo medical school in favor of entrepreneurship. Little did she know, this decision would lead her to the heart of the tech world, where she now helps shape customer success at Microsoft.
Sultani’s unexpected path began with a venture as an entrepreneur in a family business and continued with her MBA at Simon Business School. At first her aspirations were firmly set on becoming an entrepreneur and launching her own cosmetic brand—which she outlined in her MBA application. However, her journey took an unexpected turn when she joined the Simon School Venture Fund (SSVF), an early-stage seed fund managed by MBA and master’s students at Simon. Supported by alumni donations, this evergreen fund is guided by an advisory board of VCs, entrepreneurs, and professionals from various fields.
Embracing Opportunities Beyond Expectations
Her first foray into venture capital with the SSVF was participating in a Shark Tank-like competition. This experience was a pivotal moment, broadening her perspectives and expanding her career options.
The SSVF introduced her to a new realm where technology, investment, and entrepreneurship intersect. Engaging with startups and evaluating investment opportunities revealed a passion she didn’t know she had—one that would shape her career trajectory.
Transformative Experiences at SimonHer involvement with the SSVF was a pivotal chapter in Sultani’s MBA experience, shaping both her career and personal growth. Beginning as an analyst, she immediately did a deep dive into the world of venture capital and evaluating investment opportunities. She was also able to develop a nuanced understanding of the startup ecosystem and the intricacies of venture investing. | 
"My goal in the SSVF was the same as my approach to life today,” she said. “I always push beyond the limits. Through diverse experiences, you master the art of influence and learn to venture into unfamiliar territory, creating something truly unique."—Hawa Sultani ’21 (MBA) |
“I wanted to increase diversity within the fund and provide students with the right tools,” she explained. “It’s more than just a club; it’s a business. So, I focused on creating resources and products while encouraging innovative thinking rather than simply accepting the limits we were given.”
Sultani's time at SSVF was characterized by her drive to challenge the status quo and expand the fund’s horizons. Under her leadership, the SSVF strengthened its connections with local and out-of-state accelerators, providing students with invaluable exposure to the broader venture capital landscape. This proactive approach included organizing educational tours and conferences, which were crucial in bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Sultani said her experience at SSVF taught her the importance of pushing boundaries and taking calculated risks—lessons she continues to apply at Microsoft.
"My goal in the SSVF was the same as my approach to life today,” she said. “I always push beyond the limits. Through diverse experiences, you master the art of influence and learn to venture into unfamiliar territory, creating something truly unique."
Applying MBA Lessons to a Dynamic Career
The analytical skills honed through evaluating investment opportunities, combined with her experience in leading and diversifying the fund, prepared her to tackle complex challenges in the technology sector. This blend of venture capital expertise and leadership can be seen today as she navigates the fast-evolving landscape of AI and cloud computing.
As senior manager of Global Azure Strategy at Microsoft, Sultani focuses on supporting customers worldwide in harnessing AI to drive their business goals while mitigating technical challenges. This often requires embodying the innovative spirit that she cultivated during her time at Simon and staying adaptable in the face of change.
Ongoing Contributions to the Simon Community
Sultani’s connection to Simon Business School remains strong. During her time as a liaison for the Simon Consortium, she played a pivotal role in assisting Consortium students—those from underrepresented backgrounds seeking MBA degrees. Volunteers like Sultani ensure these students have access to valuable resources and guidance throughout their academic and professional journeys, from aiding in recruitment efforts to providing career development support, She is also still connected to the SSVF, mentoring students as they navigate their career in VC.
Her mentorship is instrumental in helping current members of the SSVF refine their career paths and expand their professional networks. By sharing her experiences and insights gained from her journey, Sultani demonstrates how maintaining strong alumni relationships and contributing to the community can create a ripple effect of positive change and opportunity.
Embrace Exploration and Experimentation:
Sultani emphasizes the importance of experimenting with different opportunities and being open to new experiences. She often advises students to treat their MBA years as a time to explore various interests rather than locking into a single path too early.
“Consider your two years as a time to experiment with every opportunity offered to you,” she says. “Be open to new ideas and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone.”
Sultani said that networking, attending conferences, and seeking out internships are critical for gaining practical experience and expanding one’s professional network. She suggests that students actively engage with industry professionals and participate in events that broaden their understanding of the business landscape.
“Internships are a great way to explore different fields without committing long-term. It’s a few months of exploration that can open doors to unexpected opportunities.”
Sultani’s advice on maximizing the MBA experience is rooted in her own active engagement with Simon Business School. She encourages students to fully utilize the resources and support available to them.
“Simon is big on student leadership and support. If you have an idea or a project, pursue it. The program is designed to help you push boundaries and achieve your goals,” she said. “By taking advantage of all that the program offers—whether it’s through leadership roles, networking, or hands-on projects—students can greatly enhance their academic and professional development.”
The Journey Continues
Hawa Sultani’s path from a pre-med student to a rising star in global AI strategy at Microsoft is a remarkable testament to the transformative power of an MBA from Simon Business School. She believes her time at Simon opened doors to new fields and interests, reshaping her professional trajectory in ways she hadn’t anticipated.
As Sultani said, “If you want to do something, or you find something that piques your interest, just try it. You never know what doors it will open.”