Dharani will be speaking at the MSc Alumni Panel on Wednesday 25 September from 10am to 11.30am in the CBG Auditorium. Visit the MSc Welcome website to find out more.
Tell us about your journey since graduating from LSE.
After graduating, like many other students, I embarked on a job search in the UK. I applied to over 200 positions but only secured three final-stage interviews.
To boost my chances, I meticulously tailored my CV and cover letters, practiced psychometric tests, sought advice from LSE career counsellors, and networked with alumni. Despite these efforts, success seemed elusive, complicated by factors beyond my control like visa issues and the highly competitive job market during COVID.
Just as I began to doubt my abilities and considered giving up, I landed a job after seven arduous months. Now, as an economist at the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), I’m doing exactly what I had hoped for. I've advanced two positions in the past two years and thoroughly enjoy my work. The entire journey has been a tremendous learning experience!
If you could tell your younger student self one piece of wisdom, what would it be and why?
I used to think that getting admitted to LSE was just luck. Looking back, I wish I had trusted my own capabilities and been gentler with myself. I would tell my younger self to be patient, something I've learned through experience. If I could, I’d reassure myself that everything would eventually fall into place with time. Now, I feel it’s important to share this wisdom with those who are where I once was, reminding them that patience and self-belief are key. Time has shown me the value of this lesson.
How has studying in the Department of Government helped you since graduation?
Through my master’s degree, I learned to approach and analyse problems from multiple perspectives. The diversity within my cohort enriched this experience, making it fascinating to question and understand different viewpoints during seminars. I developed a deep appreciation for critical thinking and built the confidence to articulate my own arguments effectively.
What’s the one piece of career guidance that has most impacted you?
When I was starting out in my career two years ago, I didn't have much guidance from professionals in my field. However, my father has been my guiding light and a source of unwavering support. As a self-made industrialist in India who runs a manufacturing business employing over 100 people, he has taught me the importance of dedication, loyalty, and transparency. When I received my job offer, his advice to give it my all and uphold these principles has been invaluable.
What’s been the highlight of your career so far?
The highlight of my career so far has been publishing my first report, which aims to measure the extensive reach and impact of NPL’s private sector users on the UK economy.
What is your fondest memory from LSE?
My fondest memory at LSE is undoubtedly the time spent with friends on campus, particularly at the CBG and in the library. Despite the challenges of pursuing masters during COVID, our close-knit group came together, studying, exploring the streets of London, traveling, and enjoying picnics in the park. I’ve made lifelong friends at LSE and am deeply grateful for the shared journey and experiences.