A Thrill Ride: An Extrovert's Conquest Of The MBA Journey

The first step I took in my B-school, IIM Nagpur, I got this tingling sensation, ‘Is this even real?’ and ‘Have I finally made it?’ With this, a new phase of my life began. A mechanical engineer who worked in operations for over two years has entered a place that has been his dream since his engineering days. Landing a seat at IIM Nagpur wasn't just a dream come true; it was the launchpad for an exhilarating adventure. Sure, I knew it would be intense, but for someone who thrives on interaction, initiative, and an electric atmosphere, the experience promised to be unlike anything else.

Lights, Camera, Action: Owning the IIM Spotlight

The IIM Nagpur campus crackled with energy. Classrooms became platforms for passionate debate where we would share ideas, engage with professors, and learn from diverse perspectives. Case studies transformed into opportunities to lead discussions, brainstorm solutions, and captivate our peers zealously. The social fabric at IIM Nagpur was unlike anything I'd ever experienced. Making deep connections with my batchmates, transforming late-night study sessions into brainstorming huddles, and group projects into collaborative ventures fueled by infectious enthusiasm. This formidable network extended beyond the classroom, forming the foundation for lifelong friendships, professional collaborations, and invaluable mentorship opportunities. Soon, the summer internship placements started, and I delivered myself with the utmost confidence and professionalism. I engaged with recruiters, led group discussions, and aced the personal interviews. One realization that dawned on me during this time was that extroverts have an edge in these activities, but this gave me an opportunity to help my classmates who felt strained for the same. It was one of the points where I understood the meaning of owning the room, which not only means to be the best but also makes your friends/batchmates achieve their best.

The IIM Nagpur journey wasn't without its inevitable dips. The demanding curriculum pushed me to my limits, and there were moments of academic setbacks, rejections, and even interpersonal conflicts. I took these challenges as opportunities to showcase my resilience and adaptability. I leveraged my communication skills to seek help, learned from my mistakes, and bounced back stronger.

Pointers Beyond the Academics: How Can You Embrace the Full IIM Experience?
While excelling in academics and building connections are crucial, knowing that the IIM experience offers much more, you should participate in diverse events, from cultural festivals and industry talks to sports tournaments and volunteering initiatives. It would allow you to step out of your comfort zone, explore new interests, and discover hidden talents. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance would be a crucial aspect. Be engaged in activities that relieve stress and promote physical and mental well-being, understanding that a healthy mind and body are significant for peak performance. To deepen your connections, join clubs and committees that align with your interests and aspirations. They provided a platform to collaborate with like-minded individuals, develop leadership skills, and forge deeper connections within the IIM community. Furthermore, strategically utilize your free time during less demanding terms to pursue professional certifications like CFA, PMP, or CRMA. They enhance your resume and equip you with valuable skills that will accelerate your career trajectory.

The IIM Nagpur experience has been a rollercoaster, filled with opportunities to connect, lead, and leave a lasting impact. It is a journey of self-discovery, professional growth, and building a valuable network that will propel me toward success in the ever-evolving business world.

Udit Sehgal is a first-year student at IIM Nagpur who is an avid sportsperson, enthusiastic writer, and avid orator. He has worked in the operations of a multinational technology company as a Service Quality Risk Compliance Specialist for 26 months before joining IIM Nagpur. He aims to change his field to marketing after his MBA.