Saloni Parekh

She/Her/Hers
MSSM, 2026

What unique skills or interests do you bring to the iii?

Coming from a software engineering background, I've worked on building applications with complex tech stacks like Java, Python and React.js with decent knowledge in AWS as well. This hands-on experience has provided me valuable understanding from the technical point of view and challenges that can affect feature development, thus making me more prepared to bridge the gap between technical feasibility and user needs for a product.

During my time at Amazon, I have not only learned about great software and engineering practices but I have also adopted the 14 leadership principles that Amazon abides by, some of which include "invent and simplify," "ownership," "earn trust," "insist on the highest standards," "are right a lot," and so on.. These principles play a major role in decision-making in my everyday life and help me set myself up for success!

Why MSSM?

I believe that having a campus in the heart of Silicon Valley is a dream in itself for any aspirant who wishes to make a career in technology. Networking with some of the most brilliant minds around me and getting an exposure to interact with industry experts, will open up abundant opportunities of
career growth for me.

As I stepped into the professional world of engineering after my bachelors and parallelly started leading projects along with goal initiatives, I started to realise that I had a deeper inclination towards actually owning a task and delivering it clean. I found myself to be able to develop systematic working backward plans and work with diverse teams to solve problems, execute and deliver projects aggressively. This experience motivated me to pursue a program which helps me hone my skills in the field of management, and at the same time not push me away from technology.

I highly resonate with CMU Integrated Innovation Institute’s MSSM program, which offers an amalgamation of engineering and design expertise with business acumen. By attending this program, with newly acquired skills, I envision myself driving innovation that creates meaningful impact to address the challenges of society.

Education

B.Tech in Computer Science Engineering from Vellore Institute of Technology (India)

Experience

System Development Engineer at Amazon (3 years work-ex)

What type of role are you looking to obtain after you graduate?

Through MSSM program, I intend to gain hands-on exposure to industry-level projects and take up roles related to software product management in technology industry, after graduation.