Why Growth Outside of Work Matters
Three things outside my job — football, mentoring, and improv — that quietly made me better at it.
It's easy to get caught up in the grind—endless meetings, deadlines, and the constant pressure to perform. Some of the most valuable skills—creativity, adaptability, and perspective—aren't just built at work, but also through what we pursue outside of it. For me specifically, 3 areas outside of work have contributed to my growth:
1. Playing a role in Manchester United's SF/Bay Area Fan Club
As a lifelong football fan, this keeps me connected to my passion. Beyond just watching games, I've helped organize events, fundraise, and build a tight-knit community. Unlike my day-to-day in a large company, this is a more unstructured environment and requires being scrappy, making things happen with limited resources and rallying a community around a shared passion.
2. Helping Future MBAs Get In
Mentoring MBA applicants has been incredibly fulfilling. Seeing someone crack a dream school they thought was out of reach is unmatched. I've had people tell me, "Sharan, I never thought I'd make it—but you helped me believe in myself." Moments like that remind me how impactful guidance can be. It's also made me more grateful for my own journey while sharpening my ability to frame stories, think from different perspectives, and communicate with clarity—skills that are just as valuable in business as in admissions.
3. Improv: Thinking on My Feet
Improv has been an unexpected but invaluable skill-builder. It's helped me think faster, present more confidently, and navigate ambiguity—critical in a strategy role. But what I love most is the diversity of people I meet. In San Francisco, most conversations revolve around tech; in improv, work rarely comes up. I'm surrounded by teachers, airport security, artists—people from all walks of life. That shift in perspective is refreshing and a great reminder that creativity and adaptability matter everywhere.
The bottom line? What you do outside of work doesn't just make you more interesting—it makes you better at what you do. Whether it's sports, volunteering, music, or something entirely different, stepping away brings fresh perspectives, new skills, and renewed energy. Growth isn't just about work—it's also about the experiences we choose. Find something that excites you, and you might be surprised how much it shapes you, both personally and professionally.