Welcome all the readers! I am thrilled to share some exciting news with all of you. After a journey filled with determination, self-reflection, and perseverance, I have been accepted into the esteemed XLRI Jamshedpur for my MBA. In this article, I will take you through my MBA journey, express my gratitude to those who have supported me, and share my insights on what success truly means to me.
Gratitude:
Before diving into the details of my MBA journey, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my family, friends, and mentors. Their unwavering support and belief in my abilities have been invaluable throughout my career and have played a significant role in shaping my decision to pursue an MBA. In particular, I would like to acknowledge the unwavering support and inspiration from my mother. Her thought-provoking question sparked a realization within me and set me on a path of self-discovery and growth.
Embracing New Opportunities:
When it comes to pursuing our dreams, timing is often a concern. Having 4+ years of professional experience, I encountered skepticism from some individuals in my surroundings who questioned my decision to pursue an MBA. However, I firmly believe that it's never too late to chase our dreams. I embraced this opportunity, and here I am today, sharing my remarkable news.
The Journey:
Reflecting on my journey, I have come to realize that success is not solely about living a hustle-driven life. It's about finding a balance that works for us. Alongside my exam preparations, I made it a point to savor experiences, fulfill my office responsibilities, spend quality time with my loved ones, and prioritize my mental and physical well-being. This holistic approach allowed me to pursue my academic aspirations while embracing the joys of life.
A Moment of Realization:
Last July, during a casual conversation with my parents, my mother posed a simple yet profound question: "Would you like to pursue higher studies?" This seemingly innocuous question made me realize that I had lost sight of my aspirations while being immersed in my professional life. Determined to explore new avenues, I decided to keep my options open and applied to both Master's programs in Australia and MBA programs in India. Despite facing initial disappointment with my CAT results, I channeled my determination and focused my efforts toward XAT, where I achieved an impressive 98.99 percentile. However, imposter syndrome continued to haunt me as I grappled with the disparity between my CAT and XAT scores. The moment I received a call from XLRI and went through an interview that seemed too good to be true, I found myself questioning my own accomplishment even further. It was during this time that a dear friend reminded me that my results were not merely a reflection of one day's effort but rather a culmination of the experiences I had gathered, the people I had met, and the knowledge I had acquired throughout my life experiences.
The Triumph:
Ultimately, my hard work paid off, and I received admission offers from esteemed institutions such as Monash University, the University of Melbourne, the University of Queensland, and the Australian National University for a Master in Management and Organization. Additionally, I successfully converted my admission at XLRI Jamshedpur, where I will be specializing in Human Resource Management. These achievements stand as a testament to the dedication and perseverance I invested in pursuing my dreams.
Looking Ahead:
As I embark on this exciting new chapter at XLRI Jamshedpur, I am filled with anticipation and eagerness. Over the next two years, I look forward to immersing myself in a stimulating academic environment, engaging in thought-provoking discussions, and connecting with a diverse group of peers. This MBA journey signifies not only personal and professional growth but also the opportunity to contribute to the XLRI community and make a positive impact.
Success is a multifaceted concept that varies for each individual. For me, it involves striking a harmonious balance between pursuing my dreams, nurturing relationships, maintaining a fulfilling routine, and prioritizing my well-being. However, for you, it may take on a different form, and it is up to you to discover what it truly means in your own life.
Thank you for reading this article in InsideIIM magazine.