AMA: What It’s Really Like to Become a Product Manager at CMU

On August 7th, Carnegie Mellon University hosted an inspiring AMA: “What It’s Really Like to Become a Product Manager at CMU” — packed with insights for aspiring product leaders. This live discussion brought together CMU’s admissions leadership and three current MSPM (Master of Science in Product Management) students to share candid insights, real-world experiences, and advice for aspiring product managers.

This month’s spotlight turned to the real, day-to-day journey of becoming a product manager through Carnegie Mellon’s Master of Science in Product Management (MSPM) program. Moderated by Brad Eiben, Executive Director of MSPM, the conversation brought together Kari Calvario, the program’s Director of Admissions, alongside three current students: Aminat Afonja, whose recent internship at The Home Depot expanded her product management perspective; Angelica Chaves, balancing her studies with a fast-paced internship at a U.S.-based AI startup; and Upasna Ahuja, a seasoned professional from the tech and supply chain sectors now refining her skills in defining product vision and strategy. Together, they offered attendees an unfiltered look at the challenges, rewards, and transformational moments that shape a PM’s career inside and beyond the CMU program.
 

Finding the “Aha” Moment
 

For Angelica, the decision to become a product manager grew out of her work as a technical expert at McKinsey & Company, where she collaborated closely with PMs. Mentorship and exposure to strategic decision-making convinced her she wanted to be in the driver’s seat. “I wanted to be the one making the strategic decisions—using data, proposing new ideas, and driving the product vision,” she said.

Aminat traced her calling back to launching her very first mobile app in Nigeria. Seeing customers interact with and enjoy the product gave her a deep sense of purpose: “I want to continue impacting how people live and work… seeing my product being used and customers happy—that’s the journey I want to be on.”

For Upasna, it was the realization that she was executing someone else’s vision. With nearly a decade of leadership experience in delivery and tech, she was ready for “the front seat—the messy problems, the strategies, and shaping what we solve and why.”

Shaping Perspective as a PM
 

The panelists agreed that once you step into a PM role, you see the world differently. Angelica spoke about how active listening and clear communication, honed in the program, now shape her professional and personal life. Aminat likened product management to parenting—always on call, wearing multiple hats, and feeling personally responsible for the outcome. Upasna emphasized that PM is for those who thrive in ambiguity, where high responsibility and constant decision-making are part of daily life.
 

From Self-Doubt to Confidence
 

When the conversation turned to imposter syndrome, all three students acknowledged it as a natural part of the journey. Aminat advised focusing on your strengths and past achievements rather than dwelling on weaknesses. Angelica reminded the audience that in tech, no one can know everything—what matters most is curiosity and the willingness to learn fast. Upasna credited her support network—classmates, mentors, and faculty—for helping her navigate steep learning curves in new domains.
 

Lessons from the Internship Experience
 

One of the MSPM program’s most valued components is its summer internship, giving students a chance to apply classroom learning in real-world settings. Angelica used hers to explore product marketing and the dynamics of a U.S. startup, complementing her background in structured corporate environments. Upasna leveraged the opportunity to test her interest in a new industry, apply theoretical knowledge in practice, and strengthen her storytelling for interviews. Aminat’s time at The Home Depot helped her identify both her strengths and areas for improvement—insights she plans to act on before starting her full-time role.
 

Transferable Skills and Industry Pivots
 

The students’ internships also underscored how product management skills transcend industries. Aminat moved from finance to home improvement retail, proving that the program’s training applies anywhere. Angelica pointed to universal skills—communication, negotiation, and people management—as the glue that holds PM work together in any sector. Upasna framed product management as a mindset: once mastered, it can be adapted to any domain.

Advice for Aspiring Women in Product
 

Closing out the AMA, each panelist offered guidance for women considering the PM path. Upasna encouraged attendees to “ask better questions, take on messy problems, and trust that your voice belongs at the table.” Aminat reminded them to keep long-term goals in focus and not to limit ambitions based on gender: “CMU will be there to support you at any stage.” Angelica recommended The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins, which urges readers to focus on their own path regardless of others’ opinions.