An Interview with Itisha Manglik (PGDM Student) at IMS Ghaziabad

Institute of Management Studies (IMS) Ghaziabad is a private university established in 1990. It is accredited by the National Board of Accreditation (NBA) and AACSB (USA), ASIC (UK). IMS Ghaziabad courses offered are approved by AICTE. IMS Ghaziabad offers postgraduate and doctoral courses in the field of business administration and management.

Both PG and doctoral courses are offered in the full-time mode. Admission to IMS Ghaziabad PGDM course is offered based on merit in the previous qualifying examination and scores obtained in entrance exams like CAT/ MAT/ CMAT/ XAT. IMS Ghaziabad FPM admissions are done based on performance in the entrance examinations like CAT/ GMAT/ UGC-JRF/ NET/ SET/ GRE/ GATE/ RAT.

Careers360 brings you an interview with Itisha Manglik who is a student at IMS Ghaziabad. In her interview with Careers360, Itisha shares her experience studying at the institution. To know more about the campus life at IMS Ghaziabad from a student’s perspective read through the complete interview.

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

Itisha: I'm Itisha Manglik, currently pursuing a PGDM at IMS Ghaziabad, where I am honored to serve as the Vice President (female) of the Student Excellence Council for the session 2024-2025. In addition to my leadership role, I serve as the Secretary of the Academics Initiative Committee and am an active core member of the Finnacle Club.

I’m proud to have been recognized as the Academic Topper for the 2023-2024 session and was privileged to win the Smart Business Hackathon, an achievement awarded by the Ghaziabad Management Association (GMA). My involvement in various college activities has allowed me to contribute to and organize several key events.

Before pursuing my PGDM, I completed my undergraduate degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan. During my time there, I was a member of the Social Media Committee, where I gained valuable experience in digital communication. Earlier in my school life, I had the privilege of serving as the Head Girl and was recognized for my achievements in debates and anchoring. These experiences have helped shape my leadership skills, communication abilities, and a strong sense of responsibility.

I am from Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, a city known for its rich historical and cultural significance. Meerut holds a unique place in Indian history as it was a major center during the 1857 rebellion, India’s first war of independence. Overall, I am passionate about personal and professional growth and look forward to contributing further to the development of both my college and myself.

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

Itisha: I am Pursuing Post Graduate Diploma in Management from IMS Ghaziabad and currently I am in my final year which is my second year.

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

Itisha: Yes, I did face a few challenges initially, as everyone came from different states and backgrounds, each with their dialects and perspectives. Adjusting to these differences took some time, along with adapting to the new curriculum and managing everything on my own, from organizing my daily schedule to maintaining a balanced routine, which was a bit overwhelming at first.

However, I overcame these challenges by putting in more effort, asking for advice from my professors, and working with colleagues with time, I embraced these differences, and they’ve helped me grow personally and academically.

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?

Itisha: Talking about different clubs and activities, IMS Ghaziabad provides an ample number of opportunities and options to be a part of amazing clubs and committees at IMS. Here at IMS, there are 7 clubs and 10 committees, Clubs are student-driven and committees are college-driven. Some key clubs include Markwiz, focusing on marketing acumen; Finnacle, which sharpens finance skills; Saksham, dedicated to HR, Samvad –Communication Club, Aabhar Social Initiative Club, Analytica - Business Analytics Club, Aayam – Operations Club. We also have Mélange, our cultural fest; Khelo IMS, our sports event; and Samagam- an academic fest showcasing diverse talent.

Beyond these, AIMA’s simulation games offer strategic learning opportunities, and frequent guest lectures from industry experts provide valuable insights. I have been a part of IMS’s extra-curricular activities since the start, which has helped me to hone my skills and helped me grow. I am grateful to IMS for trusting me with the Vice President (female) of the Student Excellence Council for the session 2024-2025. In addition to my leadership role, I serve as the Secretary of the Academics Initiative Committee and am an active core member of the Finnacle Club.

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

Itisha: A typical day at IMS Ghaziabad is packed yet invigorating. My day usually starts early with some prep for classes or last-minute reviews. Classes start around 9 am, focusing on core subjects like finance, marketing, or managerial skills, covering different subjects, and classes continue until about 5:00 pm.

Post-classes, I often participate in club activities or student body meetings, especially now that I’m the President of the Student Excellence Council. There’s always something engaging happening on campus, whether it’s event planning, team discussions, or cultural activities. In the evenings I normally try to do some self-study, projects, or brainstorming sessions for upcoming events like Melange - Cultural Fest. It's an energetic routine but immensely rewarding.

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

Itisha: The faculty-student ratio is 1:15, ensuring that professors are accessible and involved. Faculty members here not only share their expertise but are genuinely invested in student development, both academically and professionally.

They guide us through projects, offer insights into real-world applications, and are approachable for advice even outside the classroom. This supportive atmosphere encourages us to actively engage in our learning and seek guidance when needed.

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

Itisha: Our campus offers a variety of great facilities, including 24-hour access to a library with a wide range of resources, a well-equipped digital lab, and impressive placement for all batches. One of the most unique features I find is the Human Library.

Through this initiative, students can make appointments with faculty who are dedicated to supporting student learning, Itishaing questions, and providing mentorship. This personalized guidance is something I find very important, as it fosters meaningful connections between students and teachers and makes the learning experience truly unique.

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

Itisha: Our hostels are quite comfortable, providing a welcoming environment that feels like a second home. The rooms are well-maintained, and cleanliness is given top priority, with regular cleaning schedules ensuring a hygienic space for everyone. The wardens are incredibly helpful and approachable, making it easy for us to address any concerns we may have.

Additionally, we have 24/7 access to medical assistance, with a transport facility available in case of emergencies, so we feel safe and supported at all times. These features contribute greatly to a positive and stress-free hostel experience.

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

Itisha: Yes, the medical facilities at our institute are excellent. In case of an emergency, we have 24/7 medical assistance available on campus, ensuring that students can receive the required attention promptly. The medical staff is always on hand, and in case of more serious concerns, the institute provides transportation to nearby hospitals or clinics. This round-the-clock medical support ensures that students feel secure, knowing that their health and well-being are prioritized at all times.

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

Itisha: Balancing studies, projects, exams, and extracurricular activities requires careful time management and prioritization. I usually start my day early, setting aside specific times for studying, working on projects, and attending classes. I keep a well-organized schedule, which helps me break down tasks into manageable segments, ensuring that I stay on top of everything. When preparing for exams, I focus on consistent revision rather than cramming, and I try to balance my academic commitments with my extracurricular activities by planning.

In my first year, I managed to maintain a disciplined approach to my studies and utilise the support available on campus, such as the Human Library, to clarify doubts and deepen my understanding of subjects. I also made sure to be actively involved in club activities, as they helped me build leadership and time management skills, which further contributed to my academic success. The key was to stay organized, stay focused on my goals, and ensure a balance between academics and extracurricular.

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.

Itisha: The clubs and societies at our campus play a significant role in enhancing the overall student experience. They provide platforms for personal growth, leadership, and skill development beyond academics. Each club and society has a unique focus, catering to different interests and areas of expertise.

From my perspective, the Corporate Relations Committee (CRC) is crucial as it bridges the gap between students and industry, offering placement opportunities and corporate interactions. The Students Outreach Committee focuses on community engagement, Aabhar Club is a social responsibility initiative club, that help develop a sense of responsibility among students. The Student Excellence Committee ensures that students maintain high academic standards by organizing seminars, workshops, and other academic events.

Other prominent clubs like Finnacle (finance), Markwiz (marketing), and Saksham (HR), Samvad (communication), Aayam (operations), Analytica (Business Analytics), offer specialized learning and hands-on experience in their respective fields. These clubs also host various competitions and activities that enhance practical knowledge. The Student Excellence Council plays a key role in coordinating events and fostering student involvement in different aspects of college life, ensuring that all students get opportunities for holistic development.

From a student’s point of view, these clubs and committees are invaluable. They allow students to develop leadership qualities, build a professional network, and gain practical knowledge that complements their academic pursuits. Participation in these activities not only makes our time at the institute enriching but also helps us develop the skills necessary for success in the corporate world.

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

Itisha: Yes, we have an in-house magazine called People Pulse, which is the IMS HR Magazine of IMS Ghaziabad. It serves as a platform to showcase the latest events, achievements, and updates happening at the institute, especially those related to the HR domain. Additionally, the magazine features insights from various faculty and students, highlighting academic and extracurricular developments.

LRC Monthly Bulletin, which is an initiative to keep students informed of new resources on specific topics, including current awareness. The topics covered include interesting articles regarding the World, Economy, Leadership, Management and Productivity. These updates are valuable in keeping the student community connected with the latest trends and opportunities.

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

Itisha: The most popular place in the college is the cafeteria where students gather to relax, eat, and chat with friends. It is especially busy during break times because it offers a variety of food. It is such a vibrant scene when everyone comes together laughs together and has fun, I would also say the Common lab for senior students who often hang out there during free lectures. In addition to the cafeteria, there is a small tea house near the campus where many students come for a quick tea break.

This is a favorite place for informal conversations and short breaks between classes. The nearby Opulent Mall is a popular place for shopping, food, and entertainment. Bikanervala, famous for its delicious snacks and sweets, is another favorite place for students. RDC is also a popular nearby destination for students to shop, eat and have fun. These places are often visited by students for a change and relaxation from their academic life.

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

Itisha: During my leisure time at the campus, I like to engage in a mix of activities that help me unwind and recharge. I often visit the canteen to catch up with friends and relax over a snack.

I also enjoy spending time in the library, reading books or exploring new resources related to my field of interest. Sometimes, I participate in informal discussions or brainstorming sessions with peers, which help me explore new ideas and perspectives. If any extracurricular activities or events are happening, I like to join in and stay involved with the clubs and societies.

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

Itisha: Yes, our campus has several Instagram pages, both official and unofficial, where students express their views, share experiences, and stay updated about upcoming events. The official page is used to announce important campus activities, fests, and academic updates, while the unofficial pages often feature confessions, memes, and student-driven content, allowing everyone to interact and share their thoughts.

These pages create a fun and engaging environment for students to connect, laugh, and stay informed about what’s happening on campus. Also in our college, we have a suggestion box, where students can easily voice their opinions.

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

Itisha: The placement rate at our institute is impressive. The recruitment process is well-organized and thorough, starting with pre-placement talks, followed by aptitude tests, group discussions, and personal interviews. The Corporate Relations Committee (CRC) plays a vital role in preparing students for this process, offering training sessions, mock interviews, and guidance to ensure that students are well-prepared for the selection procedures.

IMS Ghaziabad attracts diverse recruiters, including companies in finance, marketing, consulting, and IT. The recruitment process is structured and professional, with preparatory workshops, mock interviews, and counseling to ensure students are well-prepared. The placement percentage is consistently high, reflecting the quality of education and industry relevance of the curriculum. Some of the companies that visit our college include the Big 4 firms, along with renowned MNCs like Mondelez, J.L. Morrison, Asian Paints, Deloitte, Wipro, MRF, and many more.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by IMS Ghaziabad and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.