Parnika Kulkarni ’26S (MS)

“I'm not just learning on my own, I am learning as a team.”

An artist since the age of five, Parnika launched an illustration business at 17, designing corporate brand identities and logos. While her creative side thrived, her undergraduate studies in economics sparked a love for the “numbers side” of the world as well. “I’ve been an artist all my life,” Parnika says. “But I also liked how numbers connect with humans and the real world. When I found out marketing analytics was a thing, bridging the gap between the creative and the analytical, I was hooked.”

Choosing Simon: The Decision Process

As an international student, Parnika’s search was driven by practical priorities: STEM designation and an 18-month program with an internship track. When making her final choice, her decision was shaped by the “Simon Village” atmosphere. “Practically, cost and scholarship were huge factors. But beyond that, it was about how welcome I felt. I reached out to alumni on LinkedIn, and they were so prompt and helpful I didn't feel like I was just another applicant. I left my family and friends in India and moved here with three suitcases. My new friends at Simon have become my second family.”

Life in Rochester: From Mumbai to the Trails

Coming from a bustling city like Mumbai, the transition to Rochester required some adjustment, but Parnika quickly found her “pockets of happiness.” “I discovered biking here. The trails are beautiful, especially with the fall foliage. I live in Whipple Park, the University of Rochester’s graduate town house complex, so I’m surrounded by nature. Air quality and affordable rents make the quality of life great here.” Her favorite local “hidden gem”? Nerdvana, a gaming restaurant in downtown Rochester. “You can play PS5 or Xbox while you eat. It’s nerdy and fun—perfect for college students on a budget.”

Navigating the International Journey

Parnika managed the complex visa process herself, relying heavily on the Simon admissions staff for guidance. “It’s a stressful, tedious process. I was emailing Simon a lot at night in India, and I’d have an answer by morning. That prompt support was vital because the process is so time sensitive.”

The Power of Teamwork

One of Parnika’s biggest takeaways so far has been the shift from individual achievement to collaborative success. At Simon, students are placed in teams of four that they remain with for the entire year. “In undergrad, everything was an individual project. Here, you’re solving problems with a group so you get new perspectives—but you also learn to work through differences. It’s a very realistic scenario for the corporate world where you learn to overlook personal differences and focus on the skills each person brings to the table to solve the problem together.”

Leadership in the “Village”

As the VP of Marketing for the Masters Advisory Council (MAC), Parnika helps lead the community she values so much. One of her favorite memories was the trip to Rochester’s Center City neighborhood during the holidays. “We had a celebration in the Rotunda and then took a bus downtown for ice skating. It was snowing, it was cold, and it was just a vibe. Being there with friends, enjoying Christmas—it really drove home that feeling of home away from home.”