Q1. Could you please introduce yourself to our readers?
I am Kavya Dara. I Come from a place named Kothagudem of Telangana state. Hailing from a non-Hindi speaking culture made my initial educational journey (B. tech (IT) in IIITA) gruelling. My dream of studying in a premier institute was no less of a roller coaster experience. But this was when I imbibed the philosophy of “Life is lived one day at a time”. Not only I learnt how to prioritize things in life but also to set goals and surpass my fears. My work experience of 3 years at Infosys allowed me to interact with many great minds onsite and offshore, which enhanced my KSAO’s.To continue my educational journey, here I am, currently pursuing 2nd year of MBA in Human Resources from IIM Ranchi.
Q2. What made you decide to go for an MBA?
Hailing from a place which is more likely to be recognized by Singareni Collieries Company Ltd, I witnessed how the life of a miner is so different from the rest of our lives. My mother is a Sr. Social Security Assistant. Her everyday travel helped me understand how challenging it is to implement the state’s social security plans at the ground level. Not to mention, this was my first exposure to IR practices. My Father’s rural development programs aimed at alleviating farmer’s plight was my very first exposure to the assessment of needs, training initiatives and their implementation. I am pursuing MBA in HR to have good business knowledge, hone my leadership skills further and progress into new career levels.
Q3. How did you prepare for CAT along with managing family and job both?
I got married, and the CAT exam was scheduled only a month later. It was also the time of “Thanksgiving” season for my client. It was quite a hectic time for all e-commerce clients. So, I had to concise my preparation schedule. My first step was to know the exam pattern and syllabus in detail. Then I started learning topic wise from right online resources or books. O rigorously followed content from sources like PagalGuy, YouTube, and so on. I gave mock tests when I had free time back home.
Q4. Whom do you attribute your success to making it to IIM?
I would look at it as a result of the collective efforts of my parents. They have always encouraged me to have the guts to dream. My in-laws have been supporting my decision to pursue an MBA. Most importantly, my husband has always been encouraging my thoughts and helping my decisions and efforts from my end.
Q5. How has your journey been in IIM Ranchi?
My journey at IIM Ranchi has been exciting until now. It is filled with a great learning experience. My curiosity to learn and explore new things has increased. There are assignments, group projects, class participation etc. which ensure valuable interaction among peers, good relations with professors and thus facilitate increased scope for learning and change the way we look at things or situations.
Q6. What message do you like to give to all the married women out there who wish to pursue an MBA?
In the current corporate world, it is indeed a struggle to remain ahead in the race for triumph. Both and men and women are equally contributing to paint a picture of current society and development. To help equally, one should be educated similarly and treated equally. If you feel like pursuing higher education, do not shy away from saying it out and discussing the pros and cons. Prioritize on what feels essential for you to and go ahead with your instincts. All the best!