Mississippi College School of Business senior Dylan Stanley, an accounting major from Raymond, Mississippi, recently completed a three-month internship as a Strategic Development Intern with Desai Companies, a holding company that manages a portfolio of businesses across the Jackson metro area.
A graduate of Raymond High School and transfer student from Hinds Community College, Dylan has made the most of his time at MC by applying what he has learned in the classroom to real-world experiences. His internship with Desai Companies was completed remotely, allowing him to collaborate virtually with company leaders and participate in strategic planning meetings.
Dylan’s connection to Desai Companies began through a special “Mergers and Acquisitions” class taught by Sunny Desai, founder and CEO of the company. After the final class session, Dylan and Mr. Desai discussed potential internship opportunities and he was selected as the only MC student to participate in the internship program.
Throughout the summer, Dylan evaluated potential M&A deals, developed business plans, created investor pitch decks, and prepared financial statements to assess investment opportunities. He primarily reported to Mr. Desai while also working with operations and project managers to better understand the company’s daily operations.
Reflecting on his experience, Dylan shared that the internship provided valuable expertise directly related to his accounting major, including skills in financial forecasting, valuation, and strategic decision-making. “Sunny encouraged us to form and defend our own opinions,” Dylan said. “He valued our growing minds and wanted to help us develop our strategic thinking muscle. That approach challenged me to think beyond the numbers and understand how financial insights can drive business strategy.”
Dylan’s initiative and dedication represent the excellence and professionalism that Mississippi College School of Business students continue to bring to organizations throughout the region.
