The power of discipline: Disha Agarwal

In grade 10^th, I opted for the Commerce stream, being very clear about my interest.

I was always inclined towards Commerce, and the real business world interaction and updates really fascinated me. Later, when exposed to the academic curriculum, I developed an interested in the marketing domain.

Always being keen on getting more insights, higher education was never a question for me. I gave my SNAP in the year 2018 and got into Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Hyderabad.  

I arrived at the campus in February for GE-PIWAT. The process was smooth. I could see students dressed up in business formals all around. I had umpteen queries riled up in my mind which were duly answered by the POC allotted. I was briefed on the number of clubs, committees, extracurricular activities, etc. before going in for the interview. So, my mind was sorted as well.

The interview lasted for ten minutes and immediately after that, we had to go for our group exercise, which was rather fun. We were judged on our team coordination and communication.

Few days later, I received a confirmation call letter which I was more than eager to accept.

The entire process, right from applying to getting selected, went in a jiffy without any hassle as the administration took in my calls during business hours for the queries I had. Plus, the website and the portal were always updated with additional information that might be required by the potential candidates.

I never had a doubt about the credibility and future the college would have in store for me. 

Hearing success stories of alumni and placements, I confirmed my admission without a hitch and still abide by the thought which earlier instigated me to opt for this college. 

The preparation time was tedious and stressful.

Soon after waking up, I would plan my day with topics and subjects to study. The plan consisted of a proper bifurcation of the topics and the time required to complete the same.

The method of study was structured, knowing the number of days remaining for the main entrance.  It was a backward preparation where I regulated my speed according to portions covered. At that time, I had a routine of 7 am−9.30 am classes, 10 am−7 pm office, 8 pm−9 pm gym, and then dinner and studying.

A routine is rather important which inculcates discipline and a sense of purpose. It keeps you focussed and motivated. I was at my home town for my preparation and had family support throughout. My sister would indulge me in small talks which would temporarily take my mind off the pressure building day by day. 

Stress can really crack you at times; regular breaks were always needed to keep you going. My mind was always a ticking clock counting the number of days left to go.

Finally, ‘the days’ were nearing and with it, my energy got on full show. I wanted to write off all the exams and get call letters already as a reward of the hard work put in.

Along with SNAP, I appeared for CAT and NMAT. But not being satisfied with the results, I had to let go of the options.

I took coaching guidance from Career Launcher, Kakadeo, Kanpur where Mr. Neeraj Prasad takes upon the interests of students and guides them accordingly with his able leadership.

Symbiosis is a 42-acre campus flourishing with facilities. The campus has a library well-endowed with journals, e-magazines, and newsletters where students can sit and spend hours on the beanbags.

Students are constantly involved in co-curricular and academic activities. There are case-study discussions for which students have to prepare well in advance.

All work and no play makes jack a dull boy! Going by this philosophy, SIBM-H students engage themselves in sports like football, volleyball, cricket, table tennis, chess, etc.

The academic curriculum is well-defined. Students have classes every day as per the schedule received well in advance for them to plan out their lectures.

I am a member of the cultural team, Antardhwani, and Public Relations Team, Hashtag. The work goes on in a loop for the upcoming shows and events. The cultural and academic clubs keep the pressure off the academic routine.

Being a Marketing student and with the clubs I am a part of, the curriculum becomes hectic but challenging!

The subject choice given in the second semester is really interesting. Currently, we have Brand Management, Service Marketing, and Market Research as marketing core subjects, which gives us a chance to explore all the verticals covering different aspects.

The classes go in “reverse” where students have to explain to the teachers their understanding of the topic and solve the doubts that others might have. It is usually case-study related.

We’re exposed to practical application and are expected to take decisions that would affect the market scenario. We’re given a do-or-die situation of pitching a product for sales.

The college experience has been amazing with a wonderful mix of people. It is more of peer learning. Each corner you step into gives you a different chunk of knowledge. The teachers have been really helpful and approachable at the same time.

Theory brings credibility but practical knowledge gives you the exposure and respect. Application of theory remains the focus of the teachers here at our college.

About the Author:

Hi, I am Disha Agarwal. I’m from Kanpur and I completed my primary education there. Then, I stepped out of my nest and pursued my BBA (H) from Christ University, Bangalore. I’m currently pursuing MBA from SIBM-H. It has truly been a journey.

I am a writer who likes to ruminate and enunciate my thoughts. I got a poetry book ‘Shades of Mirror’ published. Along with that, I carry a passion for modelling. I am a person who wants to make a mark and work in that direction. However, I get distracted by movies and episodes easily.

I’m itching to have my first pet dog and to take a world tour with family and, later, friends!