Know about MET AMDC Mumbai from an Alumnus: Interview with Avanti Parulekar

Careers360 brings you an interview with Avanti Parulekar, CEO at Magic of Change. She is a PGP EMBA alumnus of MET AMDC Mumbai. In her interview with Careers360, Avanti shares her experience at MET AMDC Mumbai, her career path, life at the campus, suggestions for the PGP EMBA aspirants and more. To know more about MET AMDC from an alumni perspective go through the interview of Avanti Parulekar.

About: MET Asian Management Development Centre (MET AMDC), Mumbai is a part of the Mumbai Educational Trust (MET). MET AMDC Mumbai courses are offered at the postgraduate level. It offers PGP EMBA, PGP uMBA and PGP uMBA. For MET AMDC Mumbai admission to the PGP EMBA programme, candidates are shortlisted based on MET-MCT/ MH-CET/ CMAT/ XAT/ CAT/ ATMA/ GMAT/ NMAT/ MAT + Aptitude Questions and Statement of Purpose - SOP on video (Online interview only if required) + Academics Performance + other parameters. Top recruiters in MET AMDC Mumbai placements are A K Capital Services Ltd, Abbott India Ltd, ABP News, Accenture, Aditya Birla Retail Ltd, American Express Bank and others. Classrooms, E-enabled libraries, wi-fi connectivity, conference rooms, hi-tech Convention Centre, and sports facilities are some of the MET AMDC Mumbai facilities available on the campus.

Q. Tell us about your domain and your work profile. At the professional level, did you pursue the same field you were interested or you switched?

A: I’m Avanti, which in Italian means "going ahead." Born and raised in vibrant Mumbai, I'm now CEO of Magic of Change. I pursued my passion for human resources, earning my MBA from MET in the 2009-11 batch. I started my career in HR as a Learning & Development Executive at Star TV, guided by my mentor, Bhavana Samel. She was a game-changer in shaping my professional outlook. During my MBA, I gained corporate exposure through internships with Accenture and Meru Cabs, which provided a solid foundation. I hold certifications as an NLP Master Practitioner and ICF ACC Coach. I've been recognised as HR 40under40 and also cultivate organic mangoes. My journey blends HR expertise, coaching, and organic farming, reflecting my diverse interests and commitment to personal growth and sustainability.

Q. Can you briefly tell us about your career path so far?

A: My career path has been dynamic and multifaceted. I began my professional journey in HR after completing my MBA from MET in the 2009-11 batch. My first role was as a Learning & Development Executive at Star TV, where I worked under the mentorship of Bhavana Samel, a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping my career outlook. During my MBA, I interned with Accenture and Meru Cabs, gaining valuable experience in corporate settings. These internships helped me understand the corporate landscape and prepared me for an HR career. Currently, I serve as the CEO of Magic of Change, a role that encompasses my expertise in HR, coaching, and NLP. I am a Certified NLP Master Practitioner, ICF ACC Coach, and have been recognised as HR 40under40. In addition to my corporate achievements, I am an enthusiastic organic farmer specialising in mangoes. This unique combination of skills and experiences defines my career path, reflecting my commitment to personal growth and sustainability.

Q. Is the industry work different from what you learnt at MET Institute?

A: Yes, as a fresher I got to work on projects and do internships during my MBA. But working in the industry was a different ball game altogether.

Q. How do you think your time in MET has added value to your life, both professional and personal?

A: Back then as a college graduate, I was unaware of corporate life. During my MBA I got exposure and understanding of the same.

Q. What was your initial thought process when you joined MET Institute?

A: It was recession time - the year 2009. So the obvious move for me at that time was to study immediately after my graduation. I have done specialisation in Marketing during my BMS graduation but was keen on exploring HR. So my thoughts were to finish my MBA and get working in the corporate world.

Q. You must have spent a memorable time at MET. Do you miss being a part of it? Share a few good memories.

A: Working on projects and organising the HR Summit, was not just all fun but I did solid learning during my summer internship at Accenture and my winter internship with Meru Cabs. Also, I ranked 2nd in the last semester.

Q. Briefly take us through your life at the campus, the activities you used to do and your routine life.

A: Travelling from Borivali to Bandra with friends was itself such a joyride. Dressed in formals and worked hard for the presentations. I also did a part-time MCom in the same 2 years. In 2nd year our exam dates were clashing so we got special permission from MET to enter the examination hall 30 minutes late as we would be giving a 3-hour MCom exam in the morning at some other centre and then rushing to MET. The professors were very supportive and knowledgeable.

Q. Apart from academics, what were the other activities you were involved in and how did it enrich your life?

A: Organising an HR summit and working as a committee member for Aarohan for juniors.

Q. How did you keep updated with the industrial requirements and what was the role of MET in it?

A: In general reading articles and stuff. Nothing in specific that I can recollect.

Q. You are a proud alumnus of MET. What is the best part of MET Institute from a student's perspective?

A: The best part of MET is the exposure and the faculties. The infra-cafeteria and opportunities.

Q. What is your suggestion/ guidance for the PGP EMBA aspirants?

A: Make the most of this course and opportunity. There is something for everyone - find it and explore. All the best for the college. My guidance for PGP EMBA aspirants is to:

Maximize Your Opportunity: This course offers a wealth of knowledge and experience. Dive deep and make the most of every aspect. Whether it's a specific module, a networking opportunity, or a project, there's something valuable for everyone. Identify what resonates with you and explore it thoroughly.

Expect On-the-Job Training: Be prepared for extensive on-the-job training. The practical experience you gain will be invaluable. Real-world application of theoretical knowledge is a significant part of this programme.

Understand Sector Variations: Recognise that working methods can vary greatly between sectors and depend on the organisation's life cycle stage. Being adaptable and understanding these differences will help you navigate diverse professional environments effectively.

Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Having a growth mindset is crucial. Embrace challenges, learn continuously, and be open to feedback. This attitude will not only enhance your learning experience but also prepare you for leadership roles in the future.

All the Best: Approach this journey with enthusiasm and an open mind. The skills and insights you gain here will be foundational for your career growth. All the best in your EMBA journey!

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by MET Asian Management Development Centre, Mumbai and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.