An Interview with Medheer Gautam (PGDM Student) at SPJIMR Mumbai

SPJIMR Mumbai is a private university established in 1981. It is recognised as a graded Autonomy Category-I Management Institute as per AICTE. S. P. Jain Institute of Management and Research, Mumbai offers postgraduate degrees in the field of business administration and management. Admission to SPJIMR Mumbai is offered based on merit in the previous qualifying examination.

Careers360 brings you an interview with Medheer Gautam who is a student at SPJIMR Mumbai campus. In his interview with Careers360, Medheer shares his experience studying at the institution. To know more about the campus life at SPJIMR Mumbai from a student’s perspective go through the complete interview of Medheer Gautam.

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Careers360: Tell us something about yourself.

Answer: Hi, I am Medheer Gautam from Chennai! I have three years of experience across the FMCG and manufacturing sectors, including exposure to general management in the Chairman's office. I graduated as a Chemical Engineer with First Class distinction from SSN College of Engineering, Chennai. During my academic years, I actively led events, captained the football team, led the music club, and participated in various extracurricular activities. In my free time, I enjoy composing music, cooking, and playing football.

Careers360: What were the factors that made you choose SPJIMR?

Answer: I chose SPJIMR because of its strong emphasis on values and ethics, which aligns with my personal beliefs. The school's hands-on learning initiatives, like Abhyudaya and DoCC resonate with my desire for practical value-driven experience. I was particularly drawn to the faculty, especially in marketing, who are among the best in the country and bring extensive industry experience that offers invaluable insights for my growth. Additionally, the case-based learning approach is engaging, and positive feedback from my seniors from both school and college confirmed that SPJIMR is the right place for me to advance my FMCG general management journey.

Careers360: What was the first thing that you noticed about the campus and life at SPJIMR?

Answer: The first thing that struck me about the SPJIMR campus was its beautiful greenery. Being in the heart of the city, the campus has this incredible energy—it's always buzzing, even at 3 AM! What makes it special, though, is the friendly atmosphere. There’s a genuine sense of unity among everyone here; it feels like we’re all one big family, setting aside any rivalries. It’s a wonderful place to be a part of.

Careers360: What were the initial challenges faced by you at the campus?

Answer: One of the initial challenges I faced on campus was adjusting to the sustained heavy Mumbai rains, which I wasn’t used to before. The change in food and diet also took some time to get used to, as it was different from what I was accustomed to. Additionally, sharing a room with two other people was a new experience for me, and it required some adjustments in terms of space and personal habits.

Careers360: What do you think are unique facilities that are offered at SPJIMR?

Answer: SPJIMR offers a range of facilities that enhance the student experience. The green campus provides a pleasant atmosphere for studying and relaxation. The classrooms are well-conditioned and equipped with modern amenities for effective learning. The libraries offer access to thousands of books, papers, and databases, which is a valuable resource for research. The mess provides quality meals, and the hostels include convenient features like laundry services and geysers. Additionally, the hostels are equipped with Table Tennis tables and there are common grounds for football and volleyball.

Read Also: SPJIMR Mumbai Facilities

Careers360: Give us a glimpse of the daily routine followed by you at the SPJIMR Campus.

Answer: My daily routine at SPJIMR typically starts with waking up by 7:30 AM. I like to read the newspaper to catch up on current events before getting ready for classes. On my way to class, I usually grab breakfast from the canteen. I attend classes throughout the day, which keeps me engaged and learning. After classes, I typically grab a snack and dive into pre-reads for the next day, along with working on group projects and case competitions with my team. I usually have a light dinner, and then I unwind by playing football or going for a walk after 10 PM.

Careers360: If you were to rate one favourite thing at the SPJIMR Campus, what would it be?

Answer: If I had to pick one favourite thing at the SPJIMR campus, it would be the lake. It’s a beautiful, scenic spot surrounded by greenery, offering a calm atmosphere that’s perfect for an evening walk or run. It’s one of those places where you can take a break, clear your mind, and just enjoy the peace amidst the busy campus life.

Careers360: How would you rate the campus facilities?

Answer: I would rate the campus facilities at SPJIMR as very good. The classrooms are well-maintained, the hostels are comfortable, and the overall environment is designed to support both academics and daily living. The green spaces, libraries, sports facilities, and dining options all come together to provide a well-rounded experience for students.

Careers360: Which areas do you think can do with some improvement?

Answer: Overall, the facilities are really good, but I think adding a gym and expanding the sports facilities could take things to the next level. I’m confident these will be addressed shortly to further enhance the student experience.

Careers360: Peer groups generally leave long-lasting impressions and many times they translate to lifelong friendships. What is your opinion on the peer groups at SPJIMR?

Answer: The peer groups at SPJIMR are truly diverse, which creates a strong culture of learning and support. People here come from different backgrounds, and that diversity enriches every conversation and group activity. What stands out is how everyone is always there for each other, whether it's to help with academics or to offer personal support. The bonds formed here are not just about collaboration but also about building friendships that I’m sure will last long after the programme ends.

Careers360: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy”. This holds for all. What are the regular fun activities at SPJIMR?

Answer: At SPJIMR, there’s a good balance between work and fun. We have table tennis and foosball tables in the hostels, along with courts for basketball, football, and volleyball, which help us unwind and stay active. There are also frequent cultural nights, batch activities, and late-night birthday celebrations with cake cutting, which bring everyone together and add to the lively campus atmosphere. These activities help us take a break from our studies and bond with our peers.

Careers360: Name some of the prominent clubs at SPJIMR. Which ones are you part of? Do you think they are important for students?

Answer: I enjoy getting involved in various extracurricular activities at SPJIMR. Playing football is a highlight for me; it keeps me fit and helps me connect with my classmates on and off the field. I also love performing music at events, like my recent performance at Hastantaran for Abhyudaya, which was a fantastic experience. Participating in case competitions is another way I engage with my peers, as it allows us to apply what we’ve learned in real-world scenarios.

Careers360: Stress busters are important, especially with intense programmes of study. What are yours?

Answer: Stress busters are essential, especially with the intensity of our study programs. For me, listening to or playing music is a great way to unwind and express myself. I also enjoy taking late-night walks, which help clear my mind and provide a refreshing break. Additionally, I practise meditation to stay centred and reduce stress. Talking to friends and family is another important outlet; it offers support and perspective. Together, these activities help me recharge and maintain a healthy balance in my life.

Careers360: Name some activities that are related and focused on the SPJIMR PGDM.

Answer: Some activities related to the SPJIMR PGDM programme include mentoring underprivileged children through Abhyudaya, where we get the opportunity to make a positive impact in their lives. Additionally, I’m involved in committee work with ADMAP, which focuses on the development of management and administrative potential among students.

Case discussions in class are another vital aspect, allowing us to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and enhance our critical thinking skills. Moreover, SPJIMR emphasises experiential learning through industry visits, guest lectures from industry leaders, and various workshops that enrich our understanding of management principles. These activities collectively contribute to a well-rounded educational experience, preparing us for our future careers.

Careers360: If you were to rate your academic infrastructure, what would be your opinion on a score of 1 to 10?

Answer: I would rate the academic infrastructure at SPJIMR a solid 9 out of 10. The classrooms are well-equipped and conducive to learning, and the libraries offer a wealth of resources, including thousands of databases. The overall environment supports a focused and enriching academic experience, making it a great place to study.

Careers360: In your opinion, how do campus life and interactions shape a student's life?

Answer: In my opinion, campus life and interactions play a crucial role in shaping a student's life. Engaging with peers fosters peer-to-peer learning, allowing us to share knowledge and experiences that enhance our understanding. These interactions expose us to new perspectives and values, broadening our horizons and encouraging personal growth. Additionally, being part of a diverse community helps us explore the unknown, challenging our assumptions and inspiring us to think critically. Overall, these elements create a vibrant learning environment that significantly impacts our development both academically and personally.

Careers360: What are the regular events that are held at the SPJIMR campus?

Answer: Regular events at the SPJIMR campus include a variety of engaging activities that enhance our learning experience. OJAS is a prominent management festival where students showcase their talents and skills. SPRINT promotes practical learning through real-world projects. PG Lab focuses on hands-on learning of organisational behaviour, emphasising the "from me to we" transformation through experiential learning of team dynamics.

Spandan, our annual cultural competition, brings together cultural and artistic expressions across B-school students across India. Additionally, we have conferences and industry guest lectures that bring in experts to share insights, bridging the gap between theory and practice. These events contribute to a dynamic and enriching campus life, fostering collaboration and innovation among students.

Careers360: If you had to describe your campus in a nutshell, what would that be?

Answer: In a nutshell, I would describe my campus as a green and vibrant space that embodies sustainable practices. It fosters a culture of wise innovation and ethical leadership, enriched by wonderful people and a strong sense of community. The genuine bonds formed here create an environment where students can thrive academically and personally while being mindful of their impact on the world.

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