Vivek Gupta is a current student at IIM Bangalore. He graduated in computer engineering in 2015, and worked for four years with Deloitte Consulting and Infosys Limited before joining IIM Bangalore in 2019. He interned at OTO Capital on a Strategy and Product Intern role. He will share with us his experience at IIM B.
So Vivek, how was your IIMB experience so far?
It has been a fantastic journey so far. The first two semesters were hectic due to the rigorous course structure and summers preparation. By the time you enter the third semester, you become accustomed to it. There were lots of sleepless nights, assignments, submission, and deadlines. Sometimes there was too much pressure to handle in the competitive environment, having a good & supportive friend circle is a cure.
The place Is quite eventful and happening. Club activities, case competitions, section parties, submissions, project meetings, fest & summits would keep you occupied. It would help if you made a healthy balance between studies and extracurricular. We had delicious regional dinners arranged by students coming from various states, and I can say that I have tasted famous dishes of all states.
When everything was going well, there came the entry of COVID-19, resulting in many changes in the course's set procedures. Everyone had to adopt in this uncertain circumstance. The journey was like being on a roller coaster, and it is worth remembering. The second-year till now at IIMB is entirely different than the first year due to pandemic. Everyone must switch to the "Learn from home" option though in-class learning is superior. Technology has given the solution, but now I miss L square parties, hostel parties, going for coffee at 2 am to Night canteen & late-night gatherings at friend's room. These are memories that you cherish for the rest of your life.
How are career choices going to be shaped by the current pandemic?
I don't think pandemic is going to change the carrier choice. A person with an entrepreneur mindset will still go for his venture. They may postpone it for one or two years. A passionate product managers' or marketers' choice won't change their career path. They will strive for their dream jobs. In the short run, people may prefer companies offering stable jobs, or that's my perspective on how things are going to be.
Does having a work experience like yours (4 years) give you edge during the MBA?
There is no definite answer to it. You can easily relate to the few subjects based on your work experience. But freshers bring different perspectives to the class, which is a great value addition. You will be amazed to see what they bring to the table, and everyone, irrespective of work experience, is unique. And that is the beauty of the course; people from different backgrounds contribute to collaborative learning. You might hear people say this company prefers freshers that the company experienced. There are many other criteria no one knows except the company. There is no segregation like freshers experienced in the college.
What would you advise for the upcoming IIMB batch?
I would say take this as a pinch of salt as every person unique in his/her capabilities and way of working. From my experience, I would say if you have got into IIMB, you have already come to the halfway, don't procrastinate on things (
easier said than done). Keep pace with all the curriculum else you will be creating unnecessary pressure on yourself. Besides studies, there will be lots of activities, events happening around you, try to be part of these. Enjoy the perks of being a part of the place to B.