Re: IIM Calcutta MBAEx (Earlier known as PGPEX) Experience
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15 Jun 2019, 19:21
Hi all,
Let me introduce myself first. I'm Abhishek Kumar presently working with an Agri input startup Bectron as Vice President Operations and Strategy. I worked with Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited for little more than a decade in different Business verticals and in different functions primarily Business development, Marketing and Sales and Operations. I did my Graduation from IT BHU now known as IIT BHU in Mechanical in the year 2008.
For me, life at IIM Calcutta after over a decade long years of working in corporate was very enriching. The world-class faculty, specially designed curriculum to meet the needs of students with work experience and diverse and rewarding experience of the peers led to newer insights and improved my understanding of different aspects of life. Learning with analytical pedagogy, a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and Case discussion (the trademark of IIM Calcutta), I realized that "The World isn't Black & White, And Business Decisions Are No Exception.” There are multiple best solutions for a problem. One can at best only analytically evaluate a solution based on assumptions & projections. The true outcome will depend on how assumptions shape in reality. Thus our assumptions and predictions are critical, and as a decision maker, we must develop ourselves to simulate our decision based on assumptions.
Also, since there are multiple best solutions narratives, effective communication, personal rapport and politics become very important to push forward any decisions either up to the rank or to the customer (Marketing decisions). In numerous cases, execution differentiates a good strategy from a bad one. A good business plan must include the Execution part.
Professor Leena Chatterjee, Professor CD Mitra, Professor Pragyan Rath, and Professor Bishwatosh Saha need special mention among the teaching fraternity who equipped us with tools to manage people, develop strategic thinking and using narratives while teaching us the importance of Politics and anecdotes in the corporate world.
As I travel back the memory land and evaluate myself pre and post MBAex, I can with assurance say that "The stay at IIM Calcutta has evolved me to an analytical thinker, equipping me with glasses of the framework which enables me to have a systematic view of my daily experiences and make learning note and improve the process."
Apart from the professional development part, I also got chance to improve my TT, Chess and Tennis skills. Played futsal and frisbee for the very first time. Got opportunity to interact with some of the big names in the corporate world.
I would always cherish the time I spent with my friends at IIMC; the late night meetings for projects, competitions, and parties. The discussions on topics ranged from trivial ones to the matters of life-and-death.
Regards
Abhishek Kumar