Neil Bhargava ’24 

Why did you apply to be a Nonprofit Board Scholar? 

I had experience volunteering with nonprofits before coming to grad school and I wanted to accelerate my involvement. Kellogg has multiple other routes to doing that, from the Social Impact Club to classes on Board Governance. But the Nonprofit Board Scholars program is the most well-established; it’s recognized in the broader Chicago community, and attracts a large, high-quality network of partner organizations. 

Can you describe your experience?

There were so many learning opportunities through the program. The case studies and simulations we did in class helped me predict issues that would come up and as a result I was able to hit the ground running when I was matched with TPMS. I enjoyed sitting in board meetings, working on my project to help The People's Music School update their bylaws, and interacting with other board members and students who have a similar mindset. It's empowered me to be a good board member; I’ve seen how it’s empowered other Fellows and Scholars; and it empowers the broader nonprofit community. 

What were your biggest takeaways?

Shadowing my nonprofit’s CEO taught me specific soft skills for how to make board members feel more empowered, everything from pattern recognition and question-framing, through to body language and being open to criticism. The experience also challenged the conception I had that boards were focused on implementation when they’re actually more focused on longer-term strategy. Most of all, being a Scholar cemented my aspirations to join a nonprofit board—and gave me a path to get there. I would have continued networking with nonprofits at a personal level, but I’m confident I could not have become a voting board member without the signaling benefit that comes from having been involved in the Golub Capital Social Impact Lab.

What surprised you about your experience?

I wasn’t prepared for how great the nonprofit would be that I matched with, and where I got to be involved in work that will benefit the community. I was also surprised that I had such a good experience in spite of the shorter duration that comes with being part of the accelerated MBAi program.

What advice would you have for prospective or current students who are interested in the program?

One specific point: ask questions a lot (especially during the first elective). The program assumes you haven’t had any experience as a board member, and everyone is in the same shoes so there’s no such thing as a stupid question. More generally, if you’re thinking about getting involved, you should, even if you’re not considering a career in the nonprofit sector. These organizations can gain real and long-lasting benefits from Fellows and Scholars, and you will develop skills which are transferrable wherever you find yourself as an aspiring business leader.