Representing MEM on the MGLC
Nandini Rajput (MEM '25) shares her goals as personal and professional development chair of the McCormick Graduate Leadership Council.
As Nandini Rajput (MEM '25) researched Northwestern's Master of Engineering Management (MEM) program, she discovered the McCormick Graduate Leadership Council (MGLC).
The MGLC serves as a bridge between graduate students and McCormick School of Engineering leadership. It brings students from various programs together to foster collaboration, advocate for their interests, and create events to enhance their overall graduate experience.
Today, Rajput is the personal and professional development chair of the MGLC, one of the largest student groups at Northwestern. MEM director Mark Werwath said she is the first MEM student to serve on the council.
"Being the first MEM student on the MGLC is an incredible honor and responsibility," Rajput said. "It represents an opportunity to highlight the MEM program's unique perspective and contributions to the McCormick community. I hope to set a strong precedent for future MEM students to become more actively involved in leadership roles within McCormick."
MEM is designed to develop engineering professionals into effective managers who are able to blend technical expertise with business acumen. Rajput believes having MEM representation on the MGLC helps bridge the gap between technical innovation and practical implementation.
"This perspective is invaluable for shaping initiatives and events that cater to the diverse needs of the graduate student body," she said. "Additionally, being part of such a committee in a leadership role aligns with the MEM program’s goal of cultivating well-rounded engineering leaders, adding to the learning experience and preparing students for impactful careers."
Rajput and her fellow council members meet every other week to discuss ongoing initiatives, plan events, and explore ways to address student concerns.
Prior to MEM, Rajput was a reservoir engineer at ExxonMobil in India. She previously served as the secretary and event coordinator for the student chapter of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists at the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies in Uttarakhand, India.
Her goal, beyond increasing the visibility of MEM, is to help shape cross-program collaboration. She is focused on developing initiatives that can promote leadership development as well as professional growth.
She also believes the opportunity will help her develop her project management and strategic planning skills, both of which she hopes to leverage professionally after MEM.
"This experience will allow me to enhance my leadership, communication, and collaboration skills by working with individuals from diverse backgrounds," she said. "It provides a platform to navigate challenges, foster inclusivity, and implement impactful projects."
