My Smith Experience 2020

Naina Luthra, MIB’20

Hometown: Guelph, ON

My motto: “Growth and comfort do not co-exist”

Current job: Mortgage specialist associate at RBC

I enrolled in the Master of International Business program because of its unique international scope. The diversity in the classroom makes for a learning experience like no other. Also, going on exchange for four months to Lyon, France this year will accelerate my international career.

One thing I learned at Smith that I’ll never forget: We all see life through a different lens. Never aim to be the smartest person in the room; there is always something we can learn from others that can completely shift our way of thinking.

A Smith professor who inspired me is Professor Barry Cross. His three characteristics of effective leadership really stuck with me: recognize opportunities, break paradigms and avoid catastrophes. I can’t wait to use them in my career!

The best business advice I ever got: Proximity is power. You are the average of the five people you associate with most. Choose wisely.

My fav podcast: TED Radio Hour

My best advice to future students is to learn to say “yes” more to experiences and opportunities that come your way. A growth mindset is imperative.