Interview with Kartikey Pandey, MBA-IB student at IM-BHU

In an engaging conversation with Careers360, Kartikey Pandey, an MBA (International Business) student specialising in Marketing at IM-BHU, shares his academic experiences, challenges, and unique aspects of campus life at the Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. Read the full article for insights into his journey.

Careers360: Tell us something about yourself.
Kartikey Pandey: I am Kartikey Pandey from Gorakhpur, currently pursuing an MBA (International Business) with a specialisation in Marketing at the Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University (BHU). My journey in management studies has been both enriching and transformative.

Careers360: What were the factors that made you choose IM-BHU?
Kartikey Pandey: The rich legacy, academic excellence, and global reputation of IM-BHU were key reasons for my decision. Established in 1968, the Institute of Management Studies is one of India’s foremost management institutions. Its comprehensive education and holistic growth opportunities perfectly align with my academic and personal development aspirations.

Careers360: What was the first thing you noticed about the campus and life at IM-BHU?
Kartikey Pandey: The vast and magnificent campus immediately caught my attention. The lush greenery, open spaces, and vibrant student life create an inspiring environment. Known as the "Capital of Learning," IM-BHU’s perfect blend of tradition and modernity and its diverse student body add a global perspective to the academic experience.

Careers360: What were the initial challenges you faced on campus?
Kartikey Pandey: Adapting to the rigorous demands of the MBA programme was initially challenging, particularly the transition from engineering to management. Additionally, navigating the expansive campus and balancing academics with cultural and committee activities required me to develop time management skills.

Careers360: What do you think are unique facilities offered at the Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi?
Kartikey Pandey: IM-BHU’s central library is a treasure trove for students. The campus features state-of-the-art auditoriums and numerous research opportunities. Cultural and academic clubs further enhance the holistic learning experience, while the Institute of Management Studies offers specialised facilities tailored for management students.

Careers360: Give us a glimpse of your daily routine at the IM-BHU campus.
Kartikey Pandey: At IM-BHU Varanasi, my day begins with lectures from 10 AM to 5 PM, followed by committee activities and a visit to the serene Vishwanath Temple. Evenings are spent revising coursework or preparing for club events. Certain days are devoted entirely to organizing activities for the groups I’m part of.

Careers360: If you were to rate one favorite thing at the IM-BHU campus, what would it be?
Kartikey Pandey: The Vishwanath Temple is my favorite spot on campus. Beyond being a place of worship, it offers a peaceful retreat, helping me reflect and recharge amidst a demanding schedule.

Careers360: How would you rate the campus facilities?
Kartikey Pandey: I would rate the campus facilities 8 out of 10. The infrastructure and resources are excellent, supporting both academic and personal growth.

Careers360: Which areas do you think can be improved?
Kartikey Pandey: Campus security, particularly street lighting and surveillance cameras needs enhancement to ensure better student safety.

Careers360: Peer groups generally leave long-lasting impressions. What is your opinion on the peer groups at IM-BHU?
Kartikey Pandey: Peer groups at the Institute of Management Studies are diverse and intellectually stimulating. Interacting with students from varied backgrounds has enriched my learning experience, particularly in the MBA batch, where diverse perspectives enhance discussions and collaborations.

Careers360: What are the regular fun activities at IM-BHU?
Kartikey Pandey: The campus buzzes with cultural events, sports activities, and club engagements. These activities and academics ensure a productive and enjoyable campus life.

Careers360: Name some of the prominent clubs at IM-BHU. Which ones are you part of?
Kartikey Pandey: Prominent clubs at the Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University, include the Kalpavriksha Club, VisVires Club, the Student Leadership and Life Skills Development Initiative Committee, and the FMC Club. I actively participate in the Student Leadership and Life Skills Development Initiative Committee and the Sports Committee, which are vital for leadership and teamwork development.

Careers360: Extracurricular activities cover a lot of things. Name some activities that you participate in.
Kartikey Pandey: I participate in business case study competitions, quizzes, and impactful events like Brand Baja Bazaar and Economy. These activities foster personal and professional development.

Careers360: Stress busters are important. What are yours?
Kartikey Pandey: Cycling around the campus, visiting the Vishwanath Temple, playing badminton, and listening to music are my go-to stress busters.

Careers360: Name some activities related to BHU MBA & MBA-IB.
Kartikey Pandey: Guest lectures, alumni interaction workshops, and student-driven initiatives by committees like the Kalpavriksha Club focus on bridging academics and real-world applications. Events such as Economyze and Brand Baja Bazaar are tailored for MBA and MBA-IB students.

Careers360: How would you rate the academic infrastructure?
Kartikey Pandey: I would rate the IM-BHU facilities 9 out of 10. While the classrooms and libraries are excellent, modernizing certain facilities would enhance the learning experience further.

Careers360: How do campus life and interactions shape a student’s life?
Kartikey Pandey: Campus life at IM-BHU fosters both personal and professional growth. Interactions with peers, faculty, and industry experts have honed my leadership, adaptability, and creative skills.

Careers360: What are the regular events held at the IM-BHU campus?
Kartikey Pandey: Cultural festivals, business plan competitions, and academic conferences are staples of campus life, fostering collaboration and skill-building.

Careers360: If you had to describe your campus in a nutshell, what would that be?
Kartikey Pandey: BHU is a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, offering an environment of academic excellence, cultural richness, and personal growth.

Careers360: What would you miss most about the campus after you leave?
Kartikey Pandey: I will miss BHU's camaraderie, cultural diversity, and serene ambiance. The Vishwanath Temple, hostel life, and meaningful interactions will always hold a special place in my heart.

Disclaimer: The content is published as a marketing initiative between Careers360 and Institute of Management Studies, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi.