2024 MBA To Watch: Dr. Disha Kataria, Hong Kong University Business School
“In my daily life, I wear many hats: a mother, a wife, a dentist, and an MBA student. Embracing diversity of thought, I am driven by the desire to make a difference.”

Hometown: India

Fun fact about yourself: I enjoy painting landscapes influenced by nature.

Undergraduate School and Degree: Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) – Bharti Vidyapeeth Dental College and Hospital, Pune, India

Graduate School and Degree: Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) – Dr. D.Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Pune, India

Where was the last place you worked before enrolling in business school? Consulting Dental Surgeon at a clinic in Gujarat, India.

Where did you intern during the summer of 2023? Strategy & Marketing Intern at Merit Medical Asia Ltd, Hong Kong.

Where will you be working after graduation?
I am actively exploring opportunities, currently.

Community Work and Leadership Roles in Business School:
As a panelist, I contributed insights and perspectives in a discussion focused on the business aspect of dentistry. As a committee member for the Consulting Club at HKU, I actively take part in the club’s initiatives, organizing events that promote learning and networking opportunities for students interested in consulting.

Which academic or extracurricular achievement are you most proud of during business school?
I participated as a panelist in a discussion on the business aspects of dentistry, we spoke about the untapped potential within the industry. The impact of sharing insights with my peers was immensely gratifying. This valuable exposure solidified my belief in interdisciplinary collaboration.

What achievement are you most proud of in your professional career?
When I joined a clinic in India as a Clinic head, I was entrusted with end to end clinic lifecycle management. To excel in my role, I knew I had to go beyond dentistry. I took it upon myself to learn about management, marketing, finance, and technology. It was an exciting and fulfilling journey, immersing myself in the vast world of business. The process of self-learning was demanding but rewarding, as I witnessed my newfound knowledge translate into practical solutions for the clinic. This journey of self-education and skill development not only boosted the clinic’s growth, but also helped me realize my passion for the business world. It taught me the importance of adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning. As I continue on my professional path, I carry the invaluable lessons learned, grateful for the transformative experience that has shaped me both personally and professionally.

Why did you choose this business school?
I chose HKU Business School because of its unique combination of an international focus and a welcoming atmosphere. Students from diverse backgrounds come together to create a global learning environment. This was important to me, as I believed that interacting with classmates from different cultures and perspectives would enrich my learning experience and broaden my understanding of the global business landscape.

What was your favorite course as an MBA?
The Marketing Strategy course, taught by Prof. Tingting Fan, profoundly impacted my MBA journey. Through real-world examples and case studies, I gained a deep understanding of implementing marketing strategies and their impact across industries. Prof. Fan’s unconventional approach broadened my perspective, revealing the essential need for marketing in every aspect of life. This course not only transformed my outlook, but also reinforced the vital role of marketing in driving business success.

What was your favorite MBA event or tradition at your business school?
My favorite MBA event at HKU Business School is the Buddy Program. Through this program, I had the heartening experience of discovering a supportive community that guides and supports me in a friendly and comfortable manner. Learning from the experiences and mistakes of successful alumni is incredibly valuable, and the relationships I formed extend beyond the classroom. This program has shown me the importance of having a supportive community throughout my journey.

Looking back over your MBA experience, what is the one thing you’d do differently and why?
Looking back over my MBA experience, I realize that I would have taken more risks and stepped out of my comfort zone. While I made the most of the opportunities presented, I now understand the importance of pushing myself further to explore new areas and embrace unfamiliar challenges. Moving forward, I have learned the value of embracing calculated risks for personal and professional growth. By venturing beyond what’s comfortable, I can expand my horizons and make the most of every experience.

What is the biggest myth about your school?
One of the biggest myths about my school is that it prioritizes academic excellence over practical skills and real-world experience. However, this perception is far from true. In reality, my school actively bridges the gap between theory and practice through case studies, executive coaching, projects, case competitions, and industry collaborations. Our faculty brings in valuable industry experts, and a strong alumni network and mentors. HKU is committed to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in their careers.

What surprised you the most about business school?
What surprised me the most about business school was the level of collaboration and friendship among students. I expected a competitive environment, but instead, I found a supportive community where classmates were genuinely interested in each other’s success. The willingness to share knowledge, help one another, and collaborate on projects was truly inspiring. It created a positive and inclusive atmosphere that fostered both personal and professional growth. The emphasis on teamwork and the strong sense of community were unexpected and made my business school experience even more rewarding.

Which MBA classmate do you most admire?
I admire Muwen Kong (Ben), my MBA classmate, for seamlessly transitioning from a scientific background in oncology research to our business class. His dedication, intellect, and adaptability stand out among our peers. Ben’s clear goals, strong multitasking abilities, and insightful thinking make him a standout. He skillfully leverages his scientific expertise in a business context. What sets Ben apart is his ability to have a fun and engaging presence, striking a balance between academic pursuits and enjoyment. His unique combination of expertise, versatility, and enjoyment is truly admirable.

What are the top two items on your professional bucket list?
Two significant goals on my professional bucket list are the following:

1. Attaining a leadership position where I can inspire and empower others to reach their full potential. I want to foster a culture of growth and development, supporting individuals in their career aspirations and creating a positive work environment.

2. Taking on challenging projects or initiatives that push me out of my comfort zone. I believe in continuous learning and personal growth. By embracing unfamiliar territory, I can expand my skills, overcome obstacles, and demonstrate resilience.These goals reflect my genuine desire to make a meaningful impact and pursue personal development in my professional journey.

What made Disha such an invaluable addition to the Class of 2024?
“Disha is a valuable member of the MBA family. Despite her professional background as a Dentist, she is humble and is willing to take advice from both the career team and the program team. She participates in the Consulting Club and took the lead in organizing a panel discussion on exploring the evolving landscape of Dentistry Business. I fully support this nomination.”

Josephine Chan
Director of Operations and Student Affairs (MBA Programmes)