From Architects in India to Project Managers in Chicago

Two women. Two journeys from one side of the world to the other. One common thread. 

Shreya Itika (MPM ‘23) and Neeti Thakkar (MPM ‘22) both started their careers as architects in India.  

They both wanted a change in location and profession, so they moved to the United States for Northwestern Engineering's Master of Science in Project Management (MPM) program. Today, both women are assistant project managers at STV Inc., a professional services firm based in Chicago that specializes in infrastructure projects such as transportation systems and energy plants.  

“MPM is a good mix of practical and academic knowledge,” Thakkar said. “All the professors were industry professionals who shared their practical experience and knowledge. This was where I learned the most.”  

Itika's decision to relocate was based on a void she felt working as an architect.  

“I was quick to realize that having only design knowledge will not help me to handle large-scale projects on my own,” she said. “I was eager to understand how to efficiently manage complex design and construction projects while working with multiple stakeholders.”  

Today, she and Thakkar do just that. As assistant project managers, they coordinate everything from furniture, fixtures, and equipment inventory to field surveys and budgets. Each task involves a different group of stakeholders whose needs and interests must be met. 

That makes the MPM program’s emphasis on soft-skill development extremely important, both said.  

“This profession is all about people – building and maintaining relationships,” Thakkar said. “Networking is a key aspect. I was able to sharpen my people skills because of how the MPM program was designed.”  

Itika agreed. She said the program’s Monday guest lectures give students an ideal opportunity to hear from and meet industry professionals and build their networks as they prepare for their post-MPM careers. 

Both women said it took some time to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings in the United States, but getting out of their comfort zones was part of the plan all along.   

“I wanted to learn how business works in another country,” Itika said. “I also wanted to encourage myself to grow personally and professionally. It was a life-changing experience, one that I would happily relive.”  

MPM courses are designed to give international students valuable information on how the construction industry works in the United States, Thakkar said. Now that she's working in the US herself, she's applying lessons learned in the program on a daily basis.  “My technical skills help me prepare budgets and schedules. My financial and accounting skills help me monitor budgets in an efficient manner. My networking experience has helped me collaborate with industry professionals effectively,” she said. “MPM provides a well-rounded experience, not just in academics but also exposure to industry professionals who are currently contributing to the economy.”