After a long and testing journey, we all made it to an IIM. The endless series of mocks, doubt-classes, and interviews were all behind us. Nagpur, the center of India, awaited us, but the pandemic pushed the classes to be online. It did not dampen our spirits. The PGP 2020-2022 batch is the largest batch at IIM Nagpur in terms of students admitted, and we were welcomed warm-heartedly.
We went through a week-long orientation schedule to get to know the college, its rules, and its facilities. The first in line was an ice-breaker session. Since we all were coming from the rustiness of being at home, and the medium is online, it gave us the platform to let go of the inertia and connect with our batchmates. The ice breaker session set the tone right for the week to come. It filled us with more energy and enthusiasm for upcoming events. The inauguration of PGP 2020-2022 followed the ice breaker session. The Admissions Chairperson gave all of us a warm welcome, followed by Director Sir and PGP Chairperson. We also greeted Mr. Manu Midha, who is Head of Middle East Business, OYO Arabia. He gave us key insights on how to be successful not only in professional life but also in our personal life. He told us the importance of balancing different aspects to lead a healthy life. The message from him resonates with the situation currently prevailing in the world. Last but not least, we got to interact with the SAC president. He told us about different clubs, committees, and SIGs at IIM Nagpur and shared his experiences with us.
Overall, the first day at IIM Nagpur was fun-filled, and it gave us the confidence that with such faculties and seniors, we could sail through these rough waters.
Over the next three days, we interacted with the PGP chairperson, alumni, faculty members, and seniors. Interactions focussed on rules and regulations for the entire course, value of ethics, gender sensitivity, and networking opportunities. We were also made aware of the library facilities at IIM Nagpur, which in my opinion, is one of the best. We also got a chance to interact with the CDS Chairperson. It was a lively discussion, and he gave us a lot of insights. To prepare us for case studies for the next classes, we worked on a sample case study. The discussion on the case was very engaging. It also gave us an idea of how to pre-read and prepare for case studies in classes to come.
The most crucial aspect of the entire orientation is the support of seniors. Although the mode is online, they arranged club orientation events for us during the orientation week and after that. They made sure we do not miss the fun and opportunity to network with our peers/seniors. They made us feel at the campus. The events were all fun and a learning experience.
The team Nexus, especially, ensured that our onboarding process is smooth. A special vote of thanks goes out to them from the entire PGP 2020-2022 batch. They have set the bar high for us to deliver.
The memories of orientation week will be cherished forever. The journey for the MBA has finally begun. The journey we all are going to remember for the rest of our lives!
“You walk down that road,
With the confidence that you hold.
Little do you know what’s coming next
So you should always be at your best.”
About the Author-
Saurabh Bhargava is a PGP1 student of IIM Nagpur. He is a B.Tech graduate from NIT, Surat. He has prior work experience in Manufacturing and R&D. In his leisure time, he loves to listen to songs, play cricket and badminton.