I’m at present in my remaining 12 months of the MBA programme at IIT Madras within the Division of Administration Research. Earlier than this, I pursued a BTech in Biotechnology from Vellore Institute of Know-how (VIT), and till my remaining 12 months there, I used to be satisfied I’d go down the analysis path. However someplace alongside the way in which, issues modified.
Throughout my final 12 months at VIT, I interned, managed organisations on campus, and spoke to mentors who made me realise I had a knack for administration. I might envision higher profession alternatives for myself on this discipline, and with that readability, I made a decision to make the leap and apply for an MBA. My first try on the Widespread Admission Take a look at (CAT) was in 2022. I had not even anticipated to clear the examination — it was extra about understanding what B-school entrance exams have been like.
However then got here interview calls, together with one from IIT Madras. My interview was on-campus, and it was my first time right here. I virtually immediately fell in love with the campus, its greenery, and the homely, welcoming environment. Once I obtained the acceptance, it was a straightforward “sure” — this was the place I wished to be.
I’m from a small city in Kerala’s Cochin-Ernakulum area, and the greenery on campus made me really feel near residence. It jogged my memory of my grandparents’ home, with all its timber and crops. Being right here, I by no means felt misplaced, regardless that I used to be away from residence. Staying in a hostel wasn’t new to me, due to my time at VIT, in order that half was straightforward.
The primary week on campus was all about figuring issues out — the place to search out the passport-size picture studio, catch the bus, or get a superb meal. It was overwhelming, however with the assistance of buddies — some BTech college students who had been right here for years — all the things fell into place.
Certainly one of my favorite elements of campus life right here is the little tea retailers by our division. I usually take breaks to stroll there, seize a cup of tea, and chat with buddies earlier than diving again into the day’s work. I often have lessons from 8 am to five pm, so moments like these are refreshing. As an enormous cat lover, I’ve discovered that our campus — residence to so many cats — is the proper place to unwind. I all the time take time to pet them or watch them roam round, which helps me recharge.
In my first week at IIT, I set to work with college students from different batches on a farewell occasion for the graduating class. It was an exquisite option to join with folks from completely different departments, and it felt just like the campus opened as much as me in a manner I had not anticipated.
I joined our division’s alumni committee, which allowed me to community with previous graduates, and I additionally grew to become a venture lead in 180 Levels Consulting, a student-run consulting agency that works with NGOs and organisations targeted on social influence. These experiences have proven me the unimaginable issues that may occur while you join with others and work towards a standard objective.
Once I consider what I’ve gained right here, the private development stands out simply as a lot as the tutorial studying. IIT Madras has remodeled me — not simply professionally however personally as properly. I’ve developed expertise I by no means knew I had, particularly in areas like communication, public talking, and networking. I’ve additionally discovered to belief in myself and my skills.
Curiously, there’s little direct overlap between my BTech in Biotechnology and the administration topics I examine now, however I discover myself drawing connections. The analytical mindset I developed in analysis has been an enormous asset right here, serving to me dive deeper into enterprise issues. Some administration ideas even have roots in biology — like the way in which supplies transfer out and in of a cell, mirroring how companies handle assets. It’s all about studying to adapt information throughout completely different fields, and that’s one thing I get pleasure from.
I’m excited to enter the world of enterprise technique and consulting after commencement, hopefully in a task that retains me on my toes with new challenges every day. I thrive on selection and the dynamic nature of consulting appeals to me.
Past my profession objectives, I’ve many pursuits that preserve me balanced. I’m an avid reader — fiction principally — and (Haruki) Murakami is a favorite. I additionally write poetry and I’m keen about studying overseas languages; I communicate seven languages in complete, together with French, Japanese, and German. These days, I’ve been experimenting with Korean delicacies and cooking has develop into an enormous pastime of mine. I additionally love spending time with animals, which makes residing right here on campus with all its pleasant cats an additional pleasure.
Life at IIT has been all the things I hoped for and extra. It’s a journey I might not commerce for something. The challenges, the friendships, and even the every day rituals like a quiet cup of tea or a stroll to the seaside with buddies have formed me profoundly. Right here, I’ve discovered not only a profession path but in addition a neighborhood that has develop into an extension of my household.
