A memorable classroom experience at IIM Udaipur
The classes typically start at 8.30 A.M., and this is the time around which students can be seen running in the academic block. This is because late entry is strictly not allowed in the class. The same helps in inculcating a habit of timeliness in the future managers which is one of the critical learning at B-schools. From the outside, the structure looks incomplete, but the classrooms are carefully designed with all the modern amenities to enrich the learning experience.
The memorable classroom experiences generally happen in the Strategy classes where the pedagogy is strictly case based. While reading those cases, we delve deeper into the shoes of the decision maker with so many constraints and unknowns around us. One such memorable experience is related to strategy class in which a case related to the fight between American Airlines and the Jet for the Logan Airport in Boston was discussed. One of the vital learning from these case studies is the industry knowledge that is provided to build the background for the case. This includes the major players in the industry and the strategy followed by them. While discussing the airline case, it became too complicated to find out the starting point of the analysis. At this point, the instructor guides us on how to proceed with the analysis by linking the facts given in the case to the assigned readings.
While going through the cases, it seems like a real environment in which we have to take the actual decision about the future course of action based on the data provided in the case. While going through the case, sometimes we feel that the particular decision was not right based on the current context. But we fail to realize that these decisions were taken when there was not so much technological development. It’s always easy to connect backwards when we know the current market conditions. During these times, the instructor tells us about the available technologies and know-how during that time when the decision was taken. These cases are not to judge the managerial actions, but to provide the students with the necessary tools that help in shaping the decision whenever needed. These type of experiences can only be gained in the classroom.
Which ABG company would you want to work for?
I would want to work for Aditya Birla Capital Limited as it is one of the largest financial services players in India. Being a CFA Level 1 and the aspiration to work in the core finance domain, I would like to work in either of the asset management, private equity, corporate lending, wealth management and pension fund management. While working in ABCL, I would be exploring the opportunities to work in various divisions which would help me to grow my knowledge experience.