Tell us about a time when you messed up, and what you learnt from the experience?
As the governor of the music society in college, I was responsible for organizing stage performances. I was briefed by the college dean about an official event and was asked to prepare a 10-minute performance. Later, I got an email regarding the same which I overlooked but realized only a day before the event that the time was increased to 20 minutes. We had prepared 10 minutes worth of songs so I decided to add 5-7 minutes more of songs that we had played in earlier events. Due to lack of practice in the latter, the show was haphazard and I was reprimanded by the dean and professors. As it was entirely my fault, I felt very guilty and learned the valuable lesson of paying attention to detail and double-checking all commitments.
Tell us something about yourself that others may be surprised to know about you.
I can understand more than 5 Indian languages and it sometimes comes as a surprise to others. I try to learn the official language of every state I have resided in and hence I can now speak English, Hindi, Assamese, Telugu and some Marathi, Bengali and Odia. Most often, people are not aware of it and speak in their native language in front of me which I might understand. It comes as a shock to them when I disclose it!
What have been your two biggest successes in life? What did you learn from them?
My first biggest success was when I presented two self-authored research papers at an international conference in the USA. It was a surreal experience of presenting my work to industry professionals and receiving their feedback and praise. Apart from honing my technical knowledge, I learnt the importance of communication and presentation skills. My second biggest success was being selected in IIM Ahmedabad. It was my dream to join one of the best B-schools in India which was finally fulfilled. It taught me the importance of having good interpersonal and interview skills as this is what can set you apart from other candidates. It also taught me how crucial it is to maintain consistency in academics and extracurricular activities throughout my lifetime.
Professionally, what is your ideal image of yourself five years from now? Where do you see yourself?
Five years from now, I want to see myself as an expert in my field and also emerge as a leader. I want to be sure about my career path at this point of time and be settled in my role. I would still keep learning and updating my skill set to keep abreast of the fast-paced technological world. I hope to be in a secure and contented position, financially and personally. Apart from that, I also hope to be able to give back to society to the best of my ability.
What is the one skill or characteristic you possess that you are most proud of, and why?
My adaptability: One of my major strengths is my ability to adapt to all kinds of situations. It can be attributed to the fact that I had the opportunity to live in different places and in completely different atmospheres. From having a lot of freedom to none and learning together with the best minds in the country. In every situation, I have managed to cope up and be my best self. Professionally and personally, life will throw a lot of unexpected and unwanted situations at me. My adaptability is the key to adjusting and making the most of situations rather than quitting and giving up.
In your opinion, what skills or qualities does a successful manager possess?
The qualities a successful manager possesses are assertiveness, good communication skills, and the ability to perform well under pressure. The manager must be analytical, responsible, and should be able to bring out the best in their employees.
Tell us about an ethical dilemma that you may have faced, and how you resolved it.
In college, I was associated with our cultural fest for three consecutive years and was its Sponsorship Coordinator. It was my responsibility to lead a three-tier team and organize funds for the fest. In my third year, after much effort, I secured an appointment with a vital sponsor on a weekday, but the moral dilemma I faced was that I had to miss an entire days of theory and laboratory classes for it. Missing a lab class could be detrimental as there is no provision to repeat it again and it affects my attendance poorly as well. On the other hand, I had given my word to the potential sponsor and missing the meeting would reflect poorly on the fest and may hamper future sponsorships. Eventually, I did attend the meeting which turned out to be fruitful. I assessed that at that point, it was my responsibility to put my fest on the forefront and deliver my best. I had to fulfil my commitments and set an example to the junior batch. I ensured I explained my absence to my professors and believed that I could cope up with the curriculum which I did.
If you were the CEO of any company of your choosing, which company would you choose and what would your first action be as CEO?
If I were the CEO of a company, I would choose to be of Teslas. I believe it is currently revolutionizing the field of energy, automobile and much more. It is challenging work that has not been dealt with before and their results will make a global impact. And the most important thing is that it is working to curb climate change and saving the planet, which I am an active supporter of. My first action would be to try and make the vehicles as affordable as possible by introducing EV two-wheelers which would be popular in the Asian and European markets.
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Check The List Of InsideIIM’s 50 Most Promising Incoming Students 2021 Here!
For the Class Of 2022, we are back with the 8th season of InsideIIM's Best 50 - India's Most Employable MBA Graduates - Class Of 2022! If you're graduating from a B-School in 2022, you're eligible to take part in this competition! Grab the chance to bring out your best side and impress your recruiters and peers. Take the opportunity to show the world why you are special, on your own terms.
If you're using a web browser (Mozilla or Google Chrome), then you can take part through this link. Otherwise, please download the Kampus App (Android | iOS), and head over to Competitions.
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