Erika James, Dean of the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania, has highlighted the critical need for American students to delve into scholarly pursuits in India to grasp its rapidly growing digital economy and technological advancements. While the US has historically welcomed Indian students for higher education and exchange programs, the number of American students venturing to India has remained significantly lower. This disparity is concerning, as it limits American students’ exposure to the ever-expanding business models that define the Indian economic landscape.
Professor James has been actively working to foster mutually beneficial collaborations between Wharton and Indian universities. She hopes to see a substantial increase in the flow of American students to India. She firmly believes that there is a wealth of knowledge and experience to be gained by studying in India, a nation marked by its burgeoning economy and an array of cutting-edge businesses.
“American students often choose Europe as their higher education destination, which limits their understanding of the developing infrastructure and the growth of the digital economy that has revolutionized business in India,” she explained. “In many respects, the penetration of technology and access to digital technology are more advanced in India than in the US. Exposing our students to this reality would shatter the perception that the US is the ultimate destination for learning. Students from the US and Europe would benefit greatly by understanding the rapid growth of economic mobility,” James added.
During a recent visit to the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad) and other universities, Professor James spoke about the expanding opportunities for research and student exchange. “Research collaborations are purposeful, starting by identifying faculty with shared interests and then coming together to explore scholarly pursuits. University engagements around the world have historically led to robust outcomes and profound student experiences,” Professor James emphasized. She led Wharton’s faculty international seminar (FIS), where faculty members traveled to prominent Indian cities to gain a deeper understanding of the business landscape, governance, corporate engagement, and insights from business leaders. This seminar provided first-hand information on educational content and scholarships.
When interacting with students aspiring to study at Wharton, Professor James is frequently asked about the eligibility criteria. “Since we are very quantitatively focused, students must be prepared for the School’s practical approach, which is also empirically driven. Our admissions process takes a holistic approach, where grades are important, but we also analyze curiosity levels, engagement with the world, and individuals’ ability to work effectively in a team environment,” Professor James explained.
Championing Women in Leadership
A staunch advocate for workplace diversity and inclusive management strategies, Professor James has been a vocal proponent of women in leadership roles in academia and corporate settings. “If a nation and society want to evolve and remain competitive, they need to benefit from all the intellectual capital within their system. If women are not part of the intellectual contribution in a society, it will never truly be strong.”
Professor James acknowledges the significant evolution in businesses and workplaces in the US, leading to a dramatic shift in the diversity of the labor market. “In the US, crucial strategies have been based on legal equity rulings surrounding affirmative action, which mandated employers, schools, and other institutions to create opportunities for equal access. There are personal, historical, and legal biases that have restricted advancement, and the legal process has been a tool to regulate these biases,” James stated. She emphasized that introducing legal mandates in Indian workplaces would lead to the recognition of women and pave the way for affirmative action.
AI as an Ally
With artificial intelligence (AI) being hailed as the most disruptive force in modern business, the world must accelerate its efforts to unlock its full utility. “Society has consistently benefited from technology, and AI is no exception. What is concerning about AI is that it is advancing faster than the human brain. Most universities are adapting their curricula to ensure that the future workforce stays abreast of the evolving businesses of tomorrow. According to our survey, 80% of Wharton faculty have implemented policies regarding the use of AI in classrooms and curricula to familiarize students with its effectiveness. Our students graduate with a comprehensive understanding of AI ethics and its applications in business. We are collaborating with experts to maximize the use of AI, training educators about this technology, and connecting rural schools,” she added.
In her latest book, “The Prepared Leader: Emerge from Any Crisis More Resilient Than Before,” Professor James provides a roadmap for leaders to navigate the crises of today and tomorrow effectively. In this context, there has been growing concern over the changing business dynamics due to geopolitical tensions and conflicts. “I hope that we never reach a point where we normalize the kinds of conflicts we are witnessing in the world today. It is crucial that we continue to embed people, culture, values, and communication, which are fundamental to understanding business, conflict, and geopolitical concerns,” she concluded.
