The 2023 Rising Stars of the Profession: Sujata Agarwal

I have been with EPAM for 2 years now. In this time frame, I have come across several opportunities that have challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and develop as a professional. I use my domain expertise to solve problems and address challenges for many leading Life Science / Healthcare companies. Every new project brings a unique chance for me to learn, fail, grow, and apply my Life Science expertise. Fortunately, I have been part of the EPAM LS Business Consulting team that is focused on nurturing individuals and setting them up for success. With the support of this team, I have been able to develop thought leadership and communicate disruptive ideas to clients. I like each challenge that I face in my current role. Applying my expertise to solve painful challenges and improve people's life is very fulfilling and rewarding for me.

What would you say has been the biggest factor in your success so far?

The two biggest factors that have contributed to my success are the constant desire to learn something new every day and to only compete with myself. These factors have helped me develop a working style where I emphasize goal prioritization, cultivate a positive attitude, evolve as a professional, and face every challenge with renewed enthusiasm. What do you enjoy most about your career in the consulting industry? In the consulting world, you learn something new every day. Whether it is brainstorming with a talented team or breaking down a problem, I enjoy it all. I find it very fulfilling when I can apply unique concepts and ideas to define a solution that solves the most painful challenges, improve people's life, advances the industry, and delivers value to the clients.

What is your proudest achievement to date?

My proudest achievement has been in delivering and communicating a unique idea to the leadership team. The formulation and implication of this idea will have far-reaching effects. The ability to deliver a unique concept has allowed me to gain respect from my colleagues for my work ethic and the quality of work that I deliver.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

The best advice I ever received was from my graduate school professor who mentioned that "Every lesson I have learned will never be wasted." This advice has guided me and even defined my attitude where I am not afraid to venture out and learn any new topic, even when the topic is not relevant to the current situation or in my comfort zone. Over time, I have added a bit to this advice "Every lesson you learn is never wasted if the knowledge gained is applied in appropriate situations." I use the original advice to learn new things and the modified advice to solve many complex problems.

What does this recognition mean to you?

This award is a recognition of my work and growth as a professional, but it is also a reminder that it is time to focus on achieving the next milestone. This award is also a testament to the EPAM Life Science Business Consulting Team members who welcomed a fresh college graduate into their team and provided her with unique opportunities and mentored her when needed. The recognition will continue to motivate consultants like me and several others.