How Priyanka Singha Roy built a global finance career

“Growth often comes with discomfort”, shares Priyanka Singha Roy. It’s a concept she’s familiar with. Starting life in a small town inspired big ambitions, and instilled a thirst for exploration which has taken her career across four distinct industries and from Kamalpur to Budapest, where her studies on the MBA programmer at Corvinus University of Budapest provided the next step on her career journey.

Starting over is exciting, but requires courage. Here Priyanka shares how she’s built the resilience to step into the unknown, and her advice for those also seeking to take the uncomfortable, yet empowering path of exploration.

Tell us about your yourself

I grew up in Kamalpur, a small town in the state of Tripura in north-eastern India. Growing up in a modest and close-knit community shaped my resilience and ambition. Coming from a region that is often underrepresented in global conversations motivated me to push beyond geographical and professional boundaries.

I currently work as a Senior Project Manager at Citibank Europe PLC, managing finance related initiatives within the project management team. My journey reflects a progression across four distinct fields: forestry, banking, business education, and now finance leadership.

What were your early career ambitions and experiences?

 I completed my bachelor’s degree in forestry, which marked the beginning of my academic journey. After graduation, I cleared the IPBS RRB PO examination and began my professional career at Tripura Gramin Bank RRB as an Assistant Manager. I worked there for five years, gaining strong exposure to grassroots banking operations, financial systems, and customer management.

Those years were transformative. Moving from forestry to banking taught me adaptability and gave me confidence to navigate different industries.

 Why did you decide to pursue an MBA?

While working in banking, I realised I wanted to understand business at a deeper strategic level. I did not want to remain confined to a single domain. Transitioning from forestry to banking had already shown me that growth happens when you step into unfamiliar territory. Pursuing an MBA was my next deliberate leap. I wanted to learn how businesses function globally, how financial decisions drive organisations, and how strategy shapes outcomes.

The MBA became the bridge between my operational banking experience and my aspiration to move into global finance.

What encouraged you to enrol at Corvinus University of Budapest?

Receiving the prestigious Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship was a defining milestone. It made studying in Hungary possible and opened the door to European education.

Corvinus stood out for its strong reputation in economics and business, its international cohort, and its practical engagement driven curriculum. The analytical depth of the programme aligned perfectly with my ambition to transition into global finance.

What was it like moving to Budapest?

Moving to Budapest required courage. I left a stable job and my family to start from zero in a new country. It was uncertain and challenging, but it was also one of the most empowering decisions of my life.

How did you adapt socially and culturally?

 My international classmates made the transition easier. Interacting with peers from Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, and across Europe broadened my worldview. I was impressed by how respectful and welcoming people were. Living in a dormitory helped me build meaningful friendships, and I even began learning Hungarian to immerse myself further.

What was the best thing you gained from your studies?

The most valuable thing I gained was a solution-oriented mindset. Through rigorous case discussions and analytical coursework, I learned to approach problems by focusing on solutions rather than obstacles. This mindset strengthened my resilience and stress management skills. It shaped not only my professional approach but also how I navigate life’s uncertainties.

What were the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?

Coming from a non-business academic background was challenging. Many classmates had prior education in finance and management, while I was building that foundation from scratch. The initial months required intense study, additional reading, and close interaction with professors. With persistence and discipline, I bridged the gap and gained confidence.

Did your studies change your professional ambitions?

Yes, significantly. During the MBA programme, I realised how central finance is to strategic decision-making. This led me to pursue an internship in finance, marking another transition in my journey from business education into specialised financial roles. The experience solidified my ambition to build a long-term career in finance and investment-related functions.

How did the school support you in realising your ambitions?

The faculty were supportive and approachable. Career fairs and networking opportunities helped me connect with employers. The academic structure enabled a smooth transition from internship to full time employment in finance.

How has your career progressed since graduating?

 After completing my MBA, I transitioned from internship to a full-time finance role and earned a promotion within less than two years. Today, as a Senior Project Manager at Citibank Europe PLC, I work closely with Market Controllers, and technology teams on strategic financial initiatives. 

In five years, I see myself leading a team and contributing to strategic decision-making at a higher level. I aim to strengthen my leadership and managerial capabilities while continuing to grow within the financial sector.

What advice would you give to others who are considering studying in Hungary? 

Embrace it wholeheartedly. The experience will challenge you, but it will also transform you. Trust the process, step outside your comfort zone, and do not fear mistakes. Growth often comes with discomfort.

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