Mystory@Akshat Raj: How I chose my course and college

Mystory@Akshat Raj

I have been a hardworking student all through my school days. Having scored well in both Mathematics and Biology, choosing a stream after class X was a decision that required some thinking. I chose PCM in class XI & XII, because of my love for Physics, and also the fact engineering opens up a lot of avenues for a person in the long run. And this proved to be true, wherein having picked up Chemical Engineering, I had opportunities to do courses and projects in Biotechnology, Computer Science, and obviously Chemical Engineering. And, IIT Delhi provided me an opportunity to also hone my leadership skills by organizing the technical festival (Tryst); understand what true sportsmanship and teamwork is by leading the Water Polo team of my hostel.

Post Bachelors, I joined GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare as part of their Future Leaders Program. As part of my job, I had an opportunity to work across various functions – Sales, Marketing, Operations, Engineering, Demand and Supply Planning. Having worked in various post-MBA roles, a formal education in the domain was something that made sense. And, being in the program currently, I can feel that I have gained a lot more business knowledge across domains like Finance, Strategy, etc. Something one only gets to learn in management education.

How I cracked college admission

First step was to appear for Common Admission Test (CAT). Being fairly comfortable with basic mathematics and logical questions, I mostly focused on taking mock tests, and especially focusing on the verbal section. But, I suggest starting one’s preparation around 4-5 months in advance, and actually devoting more or less equivalent time to all sections for preparations. Also, to be on the safer side do fill applications for other exams like XAT and IIFT.

Since, I was not based out of city, I didn’t take coaching for preparation, but joining a classroom course with any of the major coaching institutes will be a good idea, as it helps one remain consistent with their preparation, and also provides a competitive environment for relative measurement of one’s preparation levels. Add to that the various tips and tricks that are taught by the teachers can be really useful, and make the difference between a call, and no call. After CAT is cleared, one needs to prepare for interviews, GDs and WAT. There is a lot of information on all of these out there, and it’s a fairly standard method that is followed. For interviews, do focus on making your story coherent, outstanding but genuine.

My college life – classes, extra-curricular activities and more

IIM Bangalore has been a very different and unique experience. It has been a roller-coaster ride, much more intense than I could have ever imagined. Although an overused phrase but “Work hard, Party harder” defines the life at IIMB aptly. I will describe three major aspects of my life – Curricular, Extra-curricular and everything else.

Curricular – PGPM is a fairly standard program across the nation and as everywhere else, the courses are focused on general management. Over the three terms, I have taken courses in Micro & Macroeconomics, Operations, Marketing, Strategy, and Finance. The courses involve fair amount of assignments, group projects and exams. Projects can be as interesting as you want them to be. From comparing the market strategies of Marvel and DC to Financial Analysis of Maruti Suzuki. Overall, I would say the quality of courses is really good, combined with the great class discussions, every class adds something to one’s knowledge.

Extra-curricular – I am not someone who is either sporty or talented in Arts. But, I am still able to squeeze an hour of Squash or Swimming (the new sports center is world-class). Also, being part of various fests on campus either as a volunteer or a participant keeps the life interesting. Also, various case competitions are organised by various companies and colleges, and are something most people participate in. They help one increase their knowledge about the sector/ its issues, and hone their presentation skills.

Everything else – So, I mentioned that this place means working harder but partying even harder. And this is true. There is a sense of grandness to everything that happens. Most weekends you will find campus parties happening, and they are a perfect way to unwind after a hectic week of classes and project work. It also helps one develop bonds and make memories. Through parties and otherwise also, you can meet people with very diverse backgrounds – medicine, engineering, economics, political science, etc. And all this makes the experience worthwhile.

I have intentionally skipped about placements, because it is one of the most publicized part of MBA, and fairly so. But in my opinion MBA is a journey in itself and is worth it.

About the Author:

I’m Akshat Raj, currently a PGP1 student at IIM Bangalore. I’m a curious soul, and that is what drove me to do Chemical Engineering from IIT Delhi, and then to pursue PGPM at IIM Bangalore. An avid reader, I read all kinds of books from philosophy, sci-fi to magical realism. I also enjoy swimming and playing squash in my free time.