HARSHITA MIRA VENKATESH

Harshita joins the Breakthrough Energy Business Fellows program with an MBA from the University of California Berkeley Haas School of Business and an expertise in economic consulting. During her MBA program, she held an internship with Rivian and was a participant in Berkeley’s clean-to-market accelerator program. She also served as a research assistant in the mathematics and economics departments at the University of Rochester and held analyst and associate positions at Charles River Associates. Harshita’s consulting experience ranges from high-profile mergers to antitrust issues. She has also held numerous non-profit and volunteer roles outside of work focusing on women’s rights and climate equity.

Harshita is driven by an urge to combat climate change, which she believes to be humanity’s most troubling issue. She was inspired to apply to the Fellows program to have the opportunity to help early-stage, deep technology companies that share her passion for fighting climate change.

Harshita has lived in over twelve cities, including Rochester, N.Y. where she attended the University of Rochester, and Berkeley, Calif. where she currently lives. With her migrating experience, she confidently chooses Chicago, Ill. as her favorite place in the world.

Q&A

If you were speaking to a prospective Fellow applicant, why should they apply?
The BE Business Fellows program provides unparalleled, hands-on experience working on deep tech.

Who has had the greatest impact on your career path?
My grand aunt has had the greatest impact on my career.

What did you want to be when you grew up?
I wanted to be an archeologist.

What was the most impactful book you’ve read?
The most impactful book I’ve read is “My Brilliant Friend” by Elena Ferrante.