An MBA internship is one of the highlights of any MBA program, in India or globally. It is a critical tool for the students to have a dipstick of what corporate has to offer, and for employers to gauge candidates as potential employees.
When I was selected to undergo my summer internship in Capgemini Mumbai (Vikhroli), I had lots in mind- getting back to corporate, learning business nuances, making efficient networks and contributing my bit towards the organization.
I feel ecstatic to say that Capgemini made all that come true for me.
The selection process involved a group discussion and interview. The whole process was very smooth and efficient. I was questioned on my role and responsibilities in my previous organisation (an IT Giant) and on my viewpoints on the digital transformation of industries.
My profile for the internship was of a “New Portfolio Expert” who was responsible to spearhead the portfolio shift initiatives of Capgemini to bring its clients towards the recent wave of Digital Transformation.
The time between my selection and joining was also very interactive as I had regular communication with the Capgemini HR Team about joining formalities, details on my project etc. This greatly increased my preparedness and confidence levels before the actual joining day.
The first two days were planned as “official on boarding”, which had lots of fun ice-breaking activities. I remember myself designing an ad-pitch to sell ‘lipsticks for men’!
There were also presentations from senior leaders about Capgemini values and its core businesses.
The batch of interns was a great mix of students from a top b-schools like IIFT Delhi/Kolkata, JBIMS Mumbai, IIM Kozhikode & IIM Indore to name a few. The interns, who came from different parts of the country and were unfamiliar with each other, suddenly found them at much ease and comfort with all others.
Capgemini assigns each intern with a mentor & a buddy, who are a part of the intern’s assigned team, to introduce and coach them towards the business problem at hand and about the expected deliverable from the intern.
As we were already assigned our projects beforehand, we quickly moved to our respective BU’s (Business Units) to get the first understanding from our designated Mentors/Buddies. The interactions were highly enriching and one gets to know about the business working in a very practical perspective.
The best part about working in Capgemini is the opportunity it provides for the interns to interact with senior leaders of the group. I often reached out to people out of my team, for a different perspective and outlook to see a problem. The senior leaders are also very welcoming in listening to your viewpoints and advice on the same. I can say, some of my best learning in Capgemini came through this route.
With time came by the “Panel Assessment” process where you are required to present your project to a senior leadership panel of Capgemini. This is the time where nervousness and excitement play together. My contributions through the project focused on the next best opportunity for Capgemini to crack upon in the Digital Transformation in Energy & Utilities Sector along with a commercial plan for implementing the same. The panel-presentation exercise was a very enriching experience as I got applauds for the positives and constructive criticism on points where I can improve.
Apart from the usual work, we did not miss any opportunity to chill out and let off some steam on weekends. Exploring the different cuisines, iconic destinations and living the nightlife were some of our usual stress-busters. Though all interns worked in their respective teams during weekdays, this was the time when everyone came along together.
I will surely cherish the bond formed with other co-interns for long. I met strangers here and went back with a bunch of good friends!
Working in an extremely collaborative and professional environment, brainstorming with senior leaders, working in a cutting-edge technology domain and making efficient networks are some of the key learning I take back from Capgemini. These are sure to help me in the challenges ahead on the path of second-year MBA.
Chetan Tiwary
Class of 2019