Zicklin Graduate Student Shares Her Thoughts on ESG After Winning CohnReznick’s 2023 Gamechanger in ESG Awards

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Komal Khandelwal recently graduated from the Zicklin School of Business with a master's in finance. She was also an intern for Aspen Power, a solar energy company. 

In early 2023, Komal Khandelwal received an email from the school about a program called CohnReznick’s Gamechanger in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Awards which, as stated on the program’s website, “recognizes U.S.-based organizations that are embracing environmental, social, and governance principles to drive value for their stakeholders and improve business resiliency.” The winners of the 2023 awards include for-profit companies like Anterix and EDP Renewables North America, as well as non-profit companies like Eden Housing and Rethink Food.  

The program also grants the NextGen Award to only one student who demonstrates a zeal for ESG and who plans to pursue a career in the field. The 2023 winner of this award was none other than our very own Zicklin Graduate student, Komal. In addition to receiving a stipend, she also received the Gamechangers in ESG logo for print and digital use, recognition at a virtual awards ceremony, and a professionally produced video of her ESG success story, which is available on MLB Network.  

To compete in the program, Komal wrote an essay about her passion for ESG and her involvement in it thus far. “Since childhood, I have been very fond of keeping the environment clean,” she stated. Her love for traveling around the world has especially made her feel more connected with nature. Further, Komal wrote in her essay that she was Secretary of the Zicklin Women in Business Club and used her position to reach people in communities through outreach. She also connected ESG to gender equality, explaining that “it can promote a better world to live in.”  

When asked why ESG is so important in business these days, Komal replied, “If we integrate ESG factors into decision-making processes, I believe that businesses can really mitigate the risks and make sure that their long-term financial performances are on track...” An example of ESG factors include “resource scarcity, labor rights, and supply chain transparency.”  

“[ESG is] important for regulatory compliances,” Komal continued to explain. “...ESG regulations and standards on climate change and many other factors... face fines, legal challenges, and reputation damage.” In other words, implementing ESG regulations is not easy: “That’s why it’s important for new generations to promote this field and take action toward it.” There is a glimmer of hope, it seems. Komal pointed out that customers are becoming more aware of ESG issues and are seeking products that are sustainable and that do not harm the body or environment. Likewise, job seekers are becoming more attracted to companies that emphasize ESG.  

Komal warns people about companies that claim to promote ESG but never prove it with action, however. They just want to be “in the limelight and ahead of their competitors.” But eventually, the truth will come out. After all, “if [companies] say they are ESG focused, then which part?” Komal asked. “Is it environmental, social, or governmental? What practices are they taking?” Yet again with hope, Komal said that though some companies can be deceiving in these ways, the good news is that many companies truly are interested in ESG, with some organization leaders being philanthropists and active in charity. 

To students who plan to pursue a career in ESG, Komal suggested they first volunteer at organizations emphasizing this field and determine if ESG is really the path students want to take. She also made a point to say that “big change only matters when you change yourself. So, start by changing your habits...It could help the world become more ESG-focused.” And these small actions can be as simple as throwing trash and recyclables in their proper bins, reducing smoke pollution, and treating animals and nature with respect.  

Komal herself is keeping these steps in mind as she looks for full-time job opportunities at companies focused on ESG. She is also considering pursuing another master's in strategic planning or sustainability, though that is uncertain for now. Nonetheless, Komal’s passion for making the world a better place has not only led to her winning an award but also to an opportunity for her to share her thoughts and knowledge on a topic she loves with the wider community. And if you find yourself in the same shoes, waiting to make a difference in the world, you need not wait until you find an internship or a full-time job. Like Komal, you can start now by joining programs, events, or competitions that are meant for passionate people like you. 

Elizabeth Moy is a graduate student in the Weissman School of Arts and Sciences at Baruch College, pursuing an MA in Corporate Communications. She is also a College Assistant with the Zicklin Graduate Career Management Center. 

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