CAT Exam and Beyond: Navigating the MBA Journey

Life is full of significant milestones, and one of the most memorable for many is the pursuit of postgraduate admissions. For those who have navigated this path for their graduation, the memory is still fresh. But what happens after you’ve secured your spot in your dream campus? 

There's an old saying: "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush." This proverb originates from a medieval story emphasizing the value of securing what is certain rather than chasing uncertain possibilities. The wisdom in this saying is relevant to how we approach our decisions, but do we all truly apply it well?

For those of you who have just embarked on your MBA journey, here’s some advice to guide you through this exciting phase:

Embrace Lifelong Learning: Your MBA is just the beginning. Stay curious and committed to learning, both inside and outside the classroom. Knowledge and skills are your most valuable assets.

Build Meaningful Relationships: Networking is not just about professional connections. Invest in relationships that add value to your life, offering support, growth, and genuine camaraderie.

Stay Adaptable: The business world is dynamic, and so is life. Cultivate the ability to adapt to change with resilience. Your flexibility will be a key differentiator in your career.

Prioritize Well-Being: Success is meaningless without health and happiness. Balance your ambitions with self-care and time for the things and people you love.

Focus on Impact: Aim to make a difference, not just in your career but in your community and beyond. Strive for a legacy that goes beyond personal achievements.

Making the Most of Your B-School Journey

As I reflect on my time at IIM Bangalore, back in 1995, I realize that those two years were not just about earning a degree but about transforming myself in ways I hadn’t anticipated. The journey was as crucial as the outcome, and it shaped the leader I am today.

Here are some thoughts and a framework that I believe can help current B-school students make the most of their time, ensuring they not only excel academically but also grow personally and professionally.

1.      Set Clear Academic Goals

• Prioritize Coursework: Understand the importance of your courses. Identify core subjects that align with your career goals and focus on excelling in them.

• Active Participation: Engage actively in class discussions and group projects. This not only improves understanding but also builds your profile.

• Regular Reviews: Schedule weekly or bi-weekly reviews of your notes and assignments to stay on top of your studies.

2.      Engage in Practical Projects

• Industry Collaboration: Seek out projects that allow collaboration with industry professionals. This could be through internships, case studies, or consulting projects.

• Apply Theoretical Knowledge: Use class learning in real-world scenarios. This deepens understanding and makes you more attractive to future employers.

• Innovation and Experimentation: Don’t shy away from taking risks in projects. This is your opportunity to innovate and experiment without

3.      Build a Strong Network

• Faculty Relationships: Build relationships with professors and guest lecturers. They can be invaluable mentors and references in the future.

• Peer Network: Collaborate and connect with your peers. They will be your future industry colleagues and partners.

• Alumni Interaction: Engage with the alumni network. They can provide insights, mentorship, and opportunities.

4.      Focus on Personal Development

• Soft Skills: Work on communication, leadership, and teamwork skills. These are critical in any business environment.

• Time Management: Use tools and techniques like to-do lists, time blocking, or digital planners to manage your time effectively.

• Well-being: Maintain a healthy work-life balance. Ensure you have time for hobbies, fitness, and relaxation.

5.      Participate in Extracurriculars

• Clubs and Societies: Join clubs that align with your interests, whether professional (like marketing or finance clubs) or personal (like sports or arts).

• Competitions: Take part in case competitions, business plan contests, and other competitive events. These help build your resume and expose you to real-world challenges.

• Leadership Roles: Aim for leadership positions in these activities. They offer practical experience and showcase your initiative.

6.      Prepare for Future Careers

• Internships: Secure meaningful internships that provide hands-on experience and exposure to your field of interest.

• Resume Building: Regularly update your resume and LinkedIn profile to reflect your achievements and skills.

• Mock Interviews: Participate in mock interviews and workshops to sharpen your interview skills.

7.      Evaluate and Adjust

• Self-Reflection: Periodically reflect on your goals and progress. Are you on track? What needs adjustment?

• Seek Feedback: Regularly seek feedback from peers, mentors, and professors to identify areas of improvement.

• Adaptability: Be open to change. If something isn’t working, don’t hesitate to change your approach.

Don’t overlook the beauty of the journey, enjoy the path more than the destination.

سفر کی خوبصورتی کو نظرانداز نہ کر

منزل سے زیادہ راستے کا لطف اٹھا

सफ़र की ख़ूबसूरती को नज़रअंदाज़ न कर

मंज़िल से ज़्यादा रास्ते का लुत्फ़ उठा

In closing, remember that your B-school journey is not just about the degree at the end, but about the experiences, relationships, and growth along the way. Embrace each moment, for it is in these moments that you will find the true value of your education.

Sujatha Kshirsagar

IIM Bangalore, Class of 1995