Shail Patel graduates from ASU, set to lead in global digital transformation

Thousands of Arizona State University students will wear their well-deserved cap and gown, walk across the stage and turn their tassels this May. ASU’s Student Life team was fortunate to have 2025 graduate Shail Patel. He received a Master of Global Management with a concentration in global digital transformation from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. 

ASU was always at the top of Patel’s list. As an international student from Gujarat, India, he chose ASU because it “stands out as one of the top 10 universities worldwide for obtaining U.S. patents, highlighting its commitment to innovation and practical application.” 

The Thunderbird School of Global Management particularly aligned with his career goals, offering “exceptional resources and opportunities in global digital transformation.”

Patel knew he wanted to continue his digital transformation journey after working on the marketing team for the Rotaract Club at Nirma University in Ahmedabad, India. 

“I saw firsthand the transformative power of digital marketing strategies in engaging communities and amplifying our social impact while witnessing how strategic digital outreach could bring significant positive change. It solidified my passion to pursue a career in global digital transformation,” Patel said.

Outside the classroom, there are many study spots and places to hang out all over campus, but to Patel, nothing compared to the Sun Devil Fitness Center Field and Thunderbird Pub. He said the “SDFC was perfect for sports and hanging out with friends, especially in the evenings when we’d sit around and chat. On the other hand, Thunderbird Pub was where I did my best ‘deep thinking,’ mostly about whether my assignment was due today or yesterday.”

But, aside from that, the classroom was more valuable than ever imagined. He learned so much from his professor and peers, specifically the value of social networking. 

“I initially underestimated how building genuine connections could lead to professional growth, collaborative opportunities and personal enrichment.”

This awareness “transformed my approach to professional interactions and emphasized the importance of authentic relationship-building in my career.”

Patel’s most inspiring professor, Richard Ettenson, “taught me the most influential lessons at ASU. His emphasis on aligning business, marketing, and brand strategies to create tangible value greatly influenced my strategic thinking. Through his mentorship, I learned how to effectively position brands in competitive markets, a skill I've applied successfully in numerous projects.”

If he had to leave anyone still in school with a word of advice, his best advice is to “step out of your comfort zone and actively seek practical experiences beyond the classroom.” 

“It is important to deeply engage in internships, student organizations and collaborative projects. Hands-on experiences cultivate essential skills, broaden perspectives and significantly help your professional image, boosting employability.”

After graduation, Patel plans to pursue a career in digital marketing as he leverages his experiences in multimedia marketing and brand positioning. His goal is to strategically “market analysis in order to help innovative organizations excel in today's digital-first landscape.”

To learn more about a Master of Global Management, check out the Thunderbird School of Global Management’s website.