An interaction with IMI Kolkata PGDM student: Shrestha Saha

Careers360 brings you an interview with Shrestha Saha, PGDM student at International Management Institute Kolkata. In her interview to Careers360, Shrestha shares her experience at IMI Kolkata. What is student life like inside the campus? How did she choose the PGDM programme? And other things about the college like admission process, IMI Kolkata courses and fees, facilities, clubs & societies and more. To know more about International Management Institute Kolkata from a student's perspective go through the complete interview of Shrestha Saha.

About - International Management Institute (IMI) Kolkata was India's first corporate-sponsored business school. As per the NIRF 2023 Rankings, IMI Kolkata has been placed 70th in the management category. IMI Kolkata offers postgraduate and doctoral level programmes like Post-Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM), Fellowship Programme in Management (FPM) and EFPM.

Careers360: Tell us something about yourself such as from which place are you from?

Answer: I am Shrestha Saha. graduated from Calcutta University in Chemistry (Hons). I am from Kolkata, West Bengal.

Careers360: Presently which course are you pursuing and in which year are you?

Answer: Presently, I am in the 1st year of the Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM) at IMI Kolkata. PGDM is the two-year full-time AICTE-approved PGDM programme which is equivalent to an MBA (as per Association of Indian Universities). Our programme is accredited nationally by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and internationally by Association of MBAs (AMBA). We are also active members of EFMD and AACSB.

Careers360: Did you face any difficulty in the initial months when you joined the institute?

Answer: I didn't face any difficulty as people were always ready to lend a helping hand. Initially, I was concerned about the environment, culture, and people at IMI Kolkata, the initial experience was worthwhile. Although challenging, it provided valuable memories and skills that will be beneficial throughout the journey. IMI Kolkata has been a place of growth and learning.

Careers360: What activities are offered in the institute? Are there any clubs etc. for the various extracurricular activities? Which ones have you taken up and are a part of?

Answer: With an impressive lineup of 28 clubs and committees, we are well-spoiled for choice when it comes to extracurricular activities at IMI Kolkata." Personally, I am an active member of the Women's Club, a one-of-a-kind platform that not only focuses on empowerment but also addresses cognitive challenges through engaging activities. At our institute, it's more than just a habit; it's a source of pride and a journey toward self-discovery.

In addition, I've had the honor of serving on the IMI Kolkata Branding Committee, S.M.A.R.T. This experience has been essential in teaching me skills such as interpersonal communication, time management, and teamwork that go beyond standard classroom learning. Our mentorship has not only influenced our job choices, but it has also played an important role in our lives.

Careers360: Describe a typical day at your institute. What do you do from the time you wake up till you go to sleep?

Answer: As a student at IMI Kolkata, my normal day is packed with events that ensure a healthy balance of academics and personal well-being. The day begins with a simple morning routine that prepares me for what is ahead. Despite the academic demands, I make time for the gym, knowing the importance of physical activity for overall well-being.

My day is filled with lectures, assignments, and projects. The institute frequently conducts guest lectures, which provide excellent insights into the practical parts of the working world, improving my learning experience even further. Snack breaks are no longer just a chance to refuel, but also to have fun and connect with friends. Late-night badminton is occasionally played.

Careers360: Tell us about the faculty-student ratio here and about the teacher-student relationship in your understanding.

Answer: Our institute has an excellent student-teacher ratio of 1:15, offering a personalized and enriching learning experience. The faculty members are not just highly skilled, but they are also committed to their tasks as professors. Regardless of the subject's complexity or difficulty, educators make themselves readily available to assist pupils.

Personally, I am grateful for the mentorship and support provided by my mentor and other faculty members. Their excellent advice has been invaluable in my academic path. The faculty's accessibility is one of the most notable features. They are always available to assist with course content, assignments, or any other concern. The teacher-student connection is marked by openness and support. The faculty not only advises students on academic matters, but also on different aspects of professional and personal growth. Our institute's communication channels are effective, and they are always approachable by email, enabling a collaborative and helpful learning atmosphere.

Careers360: What facilities do you have on the campus? What do you like here the most which you feel is unique and differentiating?

Answer: The campus is well-equipped with a variety of amenities that contribute to a positive student experience. A well-equipped gym, a soothing pool area, a badminton court, and a table tennis room are among the notable features, providing students with chances for both physical activity and entertainment.

The campus has a juice center, cafeteria, GCR (Group Collaboration Rooms), canteen, and lounge access for collaboration and socialization. These facilities are extremely useful for brainstorming sessions and group projects, encouraging a collaborative environment.

Another distinguishing feature is the individualized assistance system. Each student has their own mentor, and the seniors are always willing to assist.

Careers360: How comfortable are your hostels and how about the cleanliness factor over there?

Answer: IMI Kolkata hostels prioritize cleanliness, security, and a responsible living environment in addition to comfort and a pleasant study environment.

Careers360: What about the medical facilities? Can you avail requisite medical attention if needed in an emergency?

Answer: IMI Kolkata medical facilities are easily accessible and responsive. The medical center is well-equipped, with doctors on call in the academic building during the day. If necessary, you can see a doctor at the given hour, and appointments are not required in advance, making it convenient for students. Essentials and a first aid kit are readily available at security, and it's worth noting that once inside the campus, you'll need the security code. Students are given a medical card in case of an emergency, ensuring quick and efficient access to vital medical care.

Careers360: How do you balance your studies, projects, exams and other activities?

Answer: It seemed impossible when we first arrived, but with time, we adapted to our surroundings. More importantly, I believe the institute will help you become accustomed to these kinds of situations in a way that will allow you to progress through these problems. Aside from the duties of my committee, I have other assignments and projects to perform, including a live project. The campus is frequently buzzing with events that help students unwind after a long day. In my perspective, I was able to respond to the circumstances by carefully planning ahead of time and selecting which needs to take precedence at any given time. It has benefited me in this way.

Careers360: Tell us about the clubs and societies at the campus and how significant are they from your point of view or students’ point of view?

Answer: The clubs, along with a designated mentor, represent the honesty and commitment of the student population that operates them. IMI Kolkata houses 28 clubs and Committees. These include clubs for finance, marketing, economics, conservation, Toastmaster (society) and many others. You choose your passion, and you'll certainly find something to work on with devotion here. Aside from the clubs, IMI Kolkata has four core committees that work with the other clubs. They are significant since they supply you with sufficient knowledge on the issue of interest. It taught me interpersonal skills, communication, time management, and a slew of other technical skills.

Careers360: Is there any in-house magazine or journal for the latest events or happenings at the institute?

Answer: Yes, IMI Kolkata publishes the following journals:

• IMI Konnect (ISSN 2321 9378) published quarterly from International Management Institute Kolkata is an open access scholarly publication in Management. It publishes original manuscripts by scholars in the field of management and first-hand perspectives from business thinkers and practitioners on contemporary issues. It also publishes viewpoints of eminent personalities in the field of business.

• Studies in Microeconomics is a Sage Publications based tri-annual journal indexed in Scopus,ABDC, RePEc, UGC Care etc. It publishes high quality theoretical as well as applied (or empirical) research in all areas of microeconomics.

• Journal of Operations and Strategic Planning, the high-quality peer-reviewed journal of IMI Kolkata, published by Sage Publications, holds distinction as it is indexed in UGC-CARE (GROUP I) and numerous other prestigious databases. This journal showcases papers of applied relevance to the industry and management profession, making a significant contribution to the academic discourse. Supported by an editorial board with international affiliations, it exemplifies a commitment to global perspectives and ensures the publication maintains rigorous standards in disseminating valuable research within the academic and professional communities.

Careers360: What are the popular hangouts at the institute? What, according to you, are the most-visited places nearby?

Answer: The national library is the most significant, followed by the zoo and the jail museum in Alipore. Aside from this, there is Park Street, one of the well-known dining destinations where you can get breakfast. Then there is the cathedral church, the Birla Planetarium, the Victoria Memorial, and numerous others. The Acropolis Mall, Lake Mall, and numerous more locations are great for shopping during your visit.

Careers360: How do you spend your leisure time at the campus?

Answer: The campus offers a variety of leisure activities, including a café as a social hub where seniors share experiences and lessons. Activities include playing games, exploring new locations, and gathering in groups. Reading aloud and discussing current events stimulate intellectual stimulation and foster camaraderie. Overall, leisure time at the campus is a dynamic and enriching experience for personal and social growth.

Careers360: Do you have any Facebook page of your campus where the students express their views, jokes or ideas, or maybe even a blog where they write about their experience of life at campus?

Answer: The institute has an official Facebook profile for students to share views, events, and communication. A blog could add a personal touch to the online presence and provide unique insights into campus life. Creating a blog for students to share experiences, anecdotes, and humor could contribute to the campus culture and foster a sense of community.

Careers360: What type of companies come for campus recruitment and what percentage of students get placed every year? How is the recruitment process here?

Answer: ICICI Bank Limited, KPMG Global Services, Deloitte, PwC Acceleration Centers, and many more are among the main employers at IMI Kolkata. Although recruiters from a variety of industries visited IMI Kolkata, the BFSI industry received the majority of the offers. IMI Kolkata's Placement Cell gives students the tools they need to realize their professional goals. It collaborates with students all year long to support them in making well-informed decisions about their career pathways. The Learning and Development (L&D) Team at IMI Kolkata arranges one-on-one engagement sessions with alumni from a range of businesses and functions at the start of the first term. Comprehensive resume revision workshops are scheduled for the upcoming terms. Alumni, including industry experts, conduct lengthy practice interviews in advance of placement season, specifically catered to the professions that students hope to pursue.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by International Management Institute Kolkata and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.