From Automobiles To Academics: My Journey To IIM Nagpur

Hi, I’m Sharan M. My journey from being a Solution Engineer at Volvo Group to embarking on an MBA at IIM Nagpur has been nothing short of transformative. As an electronics and communications engineer, my fascination with automobiles carved a path into the Volvo Group, where I dedicated nearly five years of my career. Those years were not just about nurturing my passion for vehicles but also igniting a new interest—management.

Working at Volvo exposed me to a vibrant world of global collaboration. Interacting with stakeholders from Japan to the U.S., often across challenging time zones, sparked a curiosity about the mechanics of management. The more I interacted with teams and tackled cross-functional challenges, the more I realized that understanding technicalities alone wasn’t enough. I wanted to learn how to lead, strategize, and drive impactful change.

This realization set me on a new journey—the pursuit of an MBA. Starting in early 2023, I prepared for the CAT exam with determination. As a math enthusiast, I enjoyed solving quant problems, but my verbal ability required significant effort. Data interpretation and logical reasoning were a middle ground that needed consistent practice. Like many aspirants, I initially felt overwhelmed by the flood of advice and experiences shared online. But then, I decided to chart my own course, trusting my instincts and strengths. After all, as they say, “Don’t follow a path; make your own and let others follow.”

Balancing work and preparation was tough but rewarding. Mornings were for verbal and logical
reasoning practice, while nights were reserved for my beloved quant section. Waking up at 6 AM and studying before work, followed by evening and late-night sessions, became my routine. The discipline I developed during this phase is something I carry with me even now.

Fast forward to joining IIM Nagpur—it felt like stepping into a dream. The lush greenery, aesthetic
structures, and inspiring campus atmosphere immediately captured my heart. Yet, the first term was a whirlwind. Days began early and ended late, packed with lectures, assignments, and team projects. The rigour was daunting, but it also brought immense learning and a sense of purpose.

Leaving Volvo, a company and role I deeply loved, was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. But growth often demands stepping out of your comfort zone. An MBA is not just about academics; it’s a journey of self-discovery, leadership, and resilience. At IIM Nagpur, I’m learning to embrace challenges, adapt to a fast-paced environment, and prepare for the leadership roles I aspire to.

For anyone contemplating an MBA, remember, that it’s not just a pitstop; it’s a transformative phase in your learning journey. I’m proud to have chosen this path, and I look forward to carving new roads ahead.

Here’s to learning, growing, and making your mark on the world!

Sharan M, a PGP 2024-26 student at IIM Nagpur, brings nearly five years of experience as a Solution Engineer at Volvo Group, honing his problem-solving and collaboration skills while fostering a passion for management. An avid outdoorsman and automobile enthusiast, Sharan enjoys treks, rafting, and exploring vehicle engineering. Known for his curiosity and relentless drive, he embraces continuous learning and challenges, shaping himself into a promising future leader.