Sainath graduated from the Corvinus MBA program in 2023, but he has remained an active and committed member of the university community. He supports many Corvinus students in launching their careers through personal mentoring and professional advice, actively participates in alumni events, and recently joined the Corvinus Alumni Ambassador Program. For his dedicated contributions, he received the Corvinus Alumni Award in the young alumni category, presented by Rector Bruno Pottelsberghe at the university’s Annual Alumni Reunion on June 12. 

“Don’t hesitate to ask for help from others and also notice when others need help—be ready to support them. That’s part of community growth,” Sainath says, outlining his life philosophy at the beginning of our conversation. 

The Indian-born young professional came to Budapest in 2021 through a scholarship for the Corvinus MBA program. 

“Maybe I was lucky, because from the very beginning, I was surrounded by kind and helpful people in the dormitory and had amazing classmates in my program. But I also tried to approach everyone with an open attitude. When you arrive in a new country as a stranger, you can’t just wait for others to talk to you—you have to take the initiative,” he explains. 

He laughs as he recalls his first days in the dorm and the cultural differences his seniors kindly pointed out. For example, he learned that he didn’t need to look for a fan or air conditioner—just opening a window was enough—and that in Hungary, it’s perfectly fine to drink tap water. Cooking was already a favorite hobby during his dormitory days, and to this day, he enjoys inviting friends and colleagues to share a delicious Indian meal, believing that good food brings people together. 

“Things only change around us if we take control and do something about them. Once I got more comfortable at the university and understood the MBA program better, I tried to take initiative in business projects that lacked structure. I helped bring clarity to those projects and seized every opportunity that came my way in the university, always maintaining an open and learning-oriented attitude,” he recalls. 

After graduation, Sainath began working at ExxonMobil, but his connection to the university and his field has remained strong. He continues to mentor students who reach out to him, offering both personal and professional guidance, and he actively participates in alumni events. 

“I received so much support from the university that I can’t imagine doing anything other than giving back to my community. Everyone talks about giving back to society, but I believe in giving back immediately, whenever the opportunity arises. When I looked back, the university was the closest place to start. Even though I recently graduated, I still feel connected to my university years and already have some insight into the labor market,” Sainath explains. He often reminds students to take advantage of services like the university’s career office and to get involved in student organizations, advocating for their rights and supporting others when needed. 

“Corvinus offers many opportunities and practical support, such as help with writing resumes or finding your first job. I advise every student who approaches me to make full use of the resources the university provides when starting their careers.” 

Looking ahead, Sainath plans to launch a startup that will allow him to build a community and create business value for both his home country and, as he calls it, his second home—Hungary. 

Regarding the recent Alumni Impact Award, he says he’s not someone who seeks recognition and prefers to work quietly, but receiving the award and celebrating with his peers was still a meaningful experience. 

“Coming from thousands of miles away, from India, I never imagined I would find such an inclusive community in Budapest or that my efforts would be recognized with an award. Receiving the Corvinus Alumni Award in its first edition made my country proud. It feels like a dream come true for me and my family,” Sainath shares.