OnMobile: A way 2 success.

The 23^rd April 2008. A day which marched the beginning for me. I had my Mid term exam that too one of the most boring subject i.e. Income Tax. I never wanted to give the exam as I was more interested in OnMobile interview which was to come in a couple of hours. I was excited about the interview. Thought for days and night about how to crack the group discussion and interview. The night previous i.e. 22^nd of April 2008 was all together uneasy. Mind said to sleep so that the body can relax whereas, the heart said to be excited and work more and more towards the task. Slept around 2 O clock with lot of anxiety. The correlation between my life and my career path was shattering. It was moving here and there. I could not catch hold of it. All my mathematic equation to control or improve the correlation kept on failing. I wanted to grow up with things more to come. I wanted something more in life. All my efforts showed me one way that was to fulfill my each and every dream.

The 22nd year 6th month and 11th day of my life brought me a new morning, Mr. Nagbhuahan Rao came from Onmobile to select me. I always feared and trembled that whether I would be selected but at the same time I was sure that this is where I want to be and I have to be. I was in the 4^th group for Group Discussion. First group topic was retail, second FMCG and so on but the 4^th Group was given Global Warming. I smiled and accepted saying ‘anything sir’. That was the first step to success as I could see him keeping my resume aside. Unfortunately, other people i.e. my discussion members wanted to change the topic. Then came the topic IPL, to my strong astonishment no one knew IPL, which was very depressing for Mr. Rao. Further he explained what exactly IPL is and threw a new topic that was “Mixing of Bollywood and Cricket”. My mind said “Global Warming” was better. Someone started that how the mixing should be between both the aspects I jumped in between and in my best and commanding voice said “As a Diamond is not a diamond unless until it goes through the process refining. For a good diamond we have a precise and accurate process similarly, for mixing Cricket and Bollywood the process has to be precise and refined.” This marched the beginning of my success story and soon the GD ended. We were waiting for the results and then Mr. Nitin Garg, Director, ISME bounced in and announced that I am selected further my best friend Aditi confirmed the same from the official list. Tears came to my eyes as Aditi was not selected. Moreover the interviews were on the same day. Soon the interviews started and I was the last one in that list. One after the other the questions kept on emerging into my ears someone said GK some said project some said something. All confusion. I enquired what so ever I could about my project, GK, etc. Then came my interview. Mr. Rao emerged as a friendly enemy. He made me settle but stated asking question first was “TELL ME SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR SELF”. I answered the already prepared answer. Then was “why OnMobile.” The same old Tennis player played the ball. The ball crossed all boundaries and bounced on Mr. Rao`s face with a smile. Then was the most challenging question what are your marks. The wave in my marks that was the up`s and down`s shocked him like anything. It was a shock for Mr. Rao to know my marks. Then was what differentiation factors and the typical IIT and Why not Science were thrown without a bounce. I bounced back by saying I am widely traveled and the well prepared IIT answer. The answers bounced from each and every corner of the room bringing smile on Mr. Nagbhushan Rao`s face. Soon I was said thank you and asked to wait. Waiting was the most difficult work. Madam Usha Shankar told that I am one amongst the 4 selected. I was too happy. The next round was on Tuesday. Feeling the next part of my life would be very tough I had to overcome it. With the spirit to work harder for the next round I moved out of the ISME building with a smile on my face and anxiety in my mind.

The hostel was full of congratulations. Someone said next round is just a formality some said it`s going to be serious affair. All views came from all the corners of Knightsbridge apartments. My tension (anxiety as mama says) grew as days passed nights crossed. I kept asking people what questions would be asked who will ask and on and on and on. I was tensed at an instance and happy at another instance. There was a level of fear from surroundings and my mind was not at all convinced with the fact that I have achieved something in life. Furthermore I kept on working harder and harder for the next round of interview. Morning started with the sun peeping into my eyes and moon took away the heat and stress of the day. I was developing all types of skills day in and day out. Then came the day where I could prove my skills.

The 22nd year 6th month and 17th day of my life had come to decide what is for me. What the maker of world has prescribed for me. I developed all my marketing tools. Some day someone had said you need to market yourself in front of interviewers. He was none other than Mr. Rajeev Agarwal at ISME. I punched in my blogs in one folder, my magazine in another and the project report in another. Then I was ready to face the challenge. Marched from Knightsbridge apartment gate to reach OnMobile office on time. I was to reach at 3 Pm and started off at 12 noon. The traveling time was just 1hr but I was not willing to take any kind of chance. Exact at 2:15 Pm I walked into #26 Banerghatta road, JP Nagar, Bangalore. OnMobile office was very beautiful the AC inside was just awesome after the boiling heat. I was made comfortable. Soon other 3 students also joined me. We were told that the process will start at 3:30 as the person concerned was busy. We kept waiting for the clock to move further.

The clock was also moving in an inappropriate manner. We could see each and every second pass but could not see the second convert to a minute and then minute to hour. Anyhow our observations failed and I was called in for the interview at 3:45 Pm. Finally, I moved into the cabin of India Head, Sales. He appeared to be quite serious and was around the age of 40. Making me comfortable started shooting bullets one directly touched my eyes and I was taken back, another touched my forehead and then one came through the ears and passed through another ear. This rain of bullets made me nervous. The only difference in his way of firing was that it was from his mouth in the form of words. The quite obvious bullets finished soon and then came the big bomb which said “Why should I select you?”. I got the opportunity to prove that now you can not shoot more bomb and bullets. I kept on describing my qualities and then he tried to shoot me again by saying that I am not convinced. My mind said “Convince him” & I decided in the couple of seconds that the next bullet will say “I am selected.” With such a strong decision I showed him my creativity in the form the magazine we published at ISME, my writing skills in the form of blogs and then my hard work in terms of my recent project report. I could notice a smile on his face while he was going through my blogs. He asked, you have problem of stress. I replied “I had problem of stress but with the help form ISME I have overcome the same.” May be he was impressed and smiled and said “Keep writing it helps to meet with your true self.” Furthermore said thank you and asked me to wait. I kept waiting outside as the other three persons started to go for their interview. Soon everyone`s interview finished, by that time Toilet became my second home. I was so nervous and anxious to know the result that the AC created a problem for me. The four interview finished and then was the real time. We were made to wait 45 minutes. Those 45 minutes were like 45 years. I could not wait but did not have any option so had to wait and I waited. Then once again came Mr. Nagbhushan Rao and said that I am selected and one person is not selected and two other are on hold. I was relieved more over could not believe my ears. We were asked to confirm about the two more on Friday and come and collect the offer letter. Then was the phone time. Half an hour I made 50 calls. Every call said “YES, I AM SELECTED, I HAVE MADE THE PATH.” Then we reached Kabab Magic for the next round that was eating. The calls did not finish as I kept on eating. I was too happy and today after getting the offer letter I feel myself to be lucky enough to join such a company and have full confidence to succeed in life.

Thank you Ma, Papa, Aditi, ISME, Avinav, Parag, Rohit Jiju, and all those who are a part of my success.

Utsav

The 8 learning weeks

Time takes no time to move. This is my experience, jumping back to the day when a boy from a secured, cozy environment came to a new upcoming city with a vision to fulfill his each and every mid night dream. He is none other than me. I feel a difference in my life when I compare myself on the 29^th July 2007 & today i.e.27^th September 2007 these two months have changed me. I am no longer what I was. Initial days at Bangalore were tough and adjustability was a major concern for me. I was in a state of being uneasy I was thinking away from what I had to think. The correlation between my dream and my focus was reducing. I could realize this but unfortunately I could not find a valid cause for this reduction which could help me overcome it.

A week passed and some friends came to my life. The correlation started to increase but at a very low pace. I could learn day in and day out about my own life in a new form. I could realize some potential`s in me. My feeling of being lonely went with some unknown people coming in. This in & out made me like Bangalore. Time flew like a Concorde. My mind was still somewhere in trouble because I could not find steps to reach my dream. I started to locate those initial baby steps which could help me proceed. First step was the CSR(Corporate Social Responsibility) presentation which really boosted my energy to learn. I was motivated to perform better. Helping the one`s in need I could gain some positive intention of one and all present. Observations were a key role to my success. Midterm was a platform I could prove my capabilities. Without caring for anything I worked day in & day out. Sleep was something I made a last priority in my life. Closing my eyes just for 3 to 4 hours in a day. I could manage 68% in Midterm which could satisfy ma-papa but I was not at all satisfied with my performance. I was disturbed but thought not to reveal it as ma-papa were at Bangalore. They left and my worries started rising. I could realize that I am moving backwards on the few steps I had climbed. I wanted to climb more and more but the steps were becoming wider and I could not climb them.

My life was a new challenge every day. I could feel my health is going down but I never mentioned it. Though my friends could read it on my face “damm this is what I hate” why does my face revel everything which I don’t want to tell & why do people read face. Still some problems started as presentations and work stress increased. My efficiency started to reduce. The day came when I got unconscious in the class. Friends took me to the doctor and what the doctor told me was something astonishing my BP(blood pressure) it rose to 140/95. I could feel that the correlation is reducing at a much faster rate.

Richa didi took me home and a complete day I just slept. Not even reading a single word. Didi could analyze my problems. Telling me several do`s and don’ts she made me live my life as I wanted to. I could follow those rules and regulations for a few days but then I could find that they are restrictions to my steps to success. I started leaving those rules aside I did everything which was in my reach.

It was the 1^st accounts presentation. Our group could not perform well, which was a setback. I could not realize where I am but, it was a determination to catch hold of the next presentation. Time passed and the next accounts presentation came. Our score was good, Teacher praised me for my work & for the way I gave others a chance to speak. I felt that helping others has helped me climb the steps to success for the first time. I was happy, I had sacrificed many things for my presentation. I was somewhere tensed as I was locating another ‘R’ in my life but that was out of my control. End term exams came. End was a positive word for me but exam was a tension to me. I had not done anything this time due to 100`s of factors I started working again like a machine and that Sunday(23-9-2007) It was the worst day at ISME. I could know many things but never could face anything. My mind was again in dilemma.

First paper was Business communications. I could not communicate what I wanted to do. People started blaming teachers for this unsuccessful event but for me I was the cause. I could do the next exam in a better position. Time passed and I could feel that accounts was on head. Sleeping just a few hours I taught accounts to my peer group, to the extent I knew. I could feel I don’t know anything but still I tried my level best again the ‘R’ was missed. Sleep again became the last priority. I wanted to prove myself in front of those who could make fun of me. Then was the Economics paper. My friends said “what you do for others is something 150%” I felt happy as I got a little bit of ‘R’ which was a motivation for me to be awake the whole night and do whatever I could do. I helped people with economics to the extent it was possible with my capabilities. I could find someone was with me, someone from the peer group, which was again a motivation.

Solving derivates in economics I was happy I want to show that answer sheet to ma-papa and say “see I am doing some part math`s be it wrong or right but still I am trying”.

Next was statistics. This was something which bursted my stress. I cried for success but no one heard my cry. I could not achieve what I wanted to. I am really shaken today. Today is the day when I could not get the due success I wanted to achieve. This does not mean that I have left the hope. Now moving to home for 3-4 days I feel I will bring in more determination but analyzing my mind I have decided that I will leave the ‘cry’ approach at any cost. I am in this world not only to make others smile but yes to smile myself.

Utsav

My First week at Banglore

The 28^th of July, I started from Roorkee on my journey to the career of my life i.e. PGPM (MBA) from ISME (International School of Management Excellence). I was worried about each every bit of life. After all it would be a new and challenging environment for me. I was going to be away from Home for the next year & a half. Thinking several things I landed at Bangalore. I was to get registered on the 29^th of July, 2007. I reached the college at 9:00Am. I was really in full mood. I was happy & had a will to do something while I was entering the ISME premises. Wearing one of my favorite shirt. I was finally going to a place may be the right place for. As I entered the hall a guard asked me to enter the visitor book. Well counting was not long as it was numbered. I was the lucky third. Soon I heard “hi Utsav” well that was Sucheel he recognized me “curtsey orkut”. We shook hands. Soon Sandeep (Sandy) joined in ‘hi’ & hand shaking part. Not knowing this Hyd3rabadi would be my Room mate we greeted. I was looking around and could see that 51students joined a day before. I thought “ab sabse kharab room mile ga”. I was in my own thought process. We kept waiting in the place we were asked to wait. We were talking & soon Shalini our immediate senior came inside greeting her students busted with questions. How is life here? & stuff like that. We were being called in a group of two together. I went with Sandy, Got the registration done & went to meet the director. We both went; Sandy asked one question he will die without that. Sir, Dual specialization in M & F? Director, very cleverly saying no ended up. I was looking at his personality. My perception of the Director being a 60+ person but he was something nearing 50`s. Meeting him I had a confidence; he will make a difference to my life. I was really surprised & came down with 412/1 keys which were not a complete set. Sitting in the bus & helping Sandy with his huge Jumbo bag was a real trouble. I kept waiting as Ranganath Sir who later took us to the hostel. I knew the route so kept counting the turns. Well reaching the hostel was a surprise such a good place it was. I met Sahil, Manoj, etc there. Akshat (My cousin) called & came in a while. Looking at the room & the awesome Balcony we were happy. I was worried about the keys as my level of insecurity rose about my stuff. I was unaware that one week later I will not care weather my Elmira is open or locked. Well with such insecurity it was not good to stay here & I went to Richa Didi`s (Cousin) place, living near by.

Day 1:

I reached the hostel in the morning by hopping on to a two different buses. I was in a mood of thrill. I reached the hostel & realized the necessity of living in the hostel for at least a minimum of 3-4 days to be familiar in the environment & make my adjustability easier. I was in some thoughts as I got down to catch the college bus. We reached college in few minutes. We went for breakfast which was in itself confusion between rice & chipped rice. Anyways having no choice I had the Chipped Rice or Rice. Life was not normal as thoughts of unwanted & immense nature were in my mind. I was worried for no reason. Anyways the special thing about this breakfast was that it was my first brake fast in tie & blazer. In another instance I heard a voice “hi Utsav” relying to the “hi” I saw Aditi. Seeing people around I went down for some workshop. Well it was by Sibichian Mathew, Additional Director Income Tax. Following it was the introduction of the staff. Mr. Mathew made us play several games which were really required to break the trouble in the thoughts. I was in my own self trying to show some false happiness. Soon the first session got over & we were asked to have lunch which certainly was good followed by lunch was the introduction of students by Madam Preeja. She is a nice person with a smiling face & command over English language is something unbelievable. Things ended easily. I came back home & told didi I will shift tomorrow to hostel off course she said “Why?” I explained the adjusting point of mine. She agreed & I shifted to the hostel in the evening. Tensed is what I was trying to be happy in some way or the other. I slept early to get rid of this tension shooting my mind. I was in sleep with one objective i.e. to face the next day to of challenge.

Day 2:

Getting up with alarm, thinking the world to be new to me. I was thinking & doing all the natural morning things. Got ready around 35mins in advance & continued thoughts was something I could not avoid. Waiting for bus and students, I saw a few coming wishing Good Morning. I went to catch the bus. The bus was a bit late or we were early in excitement. The bus started and ISME was just 10mins away from us. Breakfast was served; eating it I met many a number of people. It was fun then suddenly a personality inspired me, he was Mr. Srinivias Bapu. A tall guy with curly hairs stood saying ‘hi’ replying to ‘hi’. I started talking to him a nice man he was. His perception about life was inspiring & motivating. I was flattered but unfortunately he was a man. Going to the class which was Mr. Sibichian Mathew’s continuing workshop. It was fun & learning. The workshop ended before lunch. We had our lunch & after lunch we were asked to sign the document stating “We will follow all the rules & regulations.” This got over & next was the bus to hostel. We reached there at around 6:00Pm. Changing clothes, I went to COSMOS with Sandeep and all. They kept looking for some clothes and other stuff. Then in a short while, we returned back to the hostel. Today also after having my dinner, I slept early. With some thoughts of adjustability and stuff like that I slept. I was a little happy that the next night I will be at Didi`s place.”

Day 3:

I got up early as usual. I was 35mins in advance after getting up & doing the usual stuff. In my thought process, I soon reached the college. College was fun starting with samosa`s in brake fast. Getting to the class we had Professor Sunil Pavekar`s class. He started speaking on Management and it’s strategies. He had a good command on his language. Speaking all the stuff in a flow with humor & examples. He continued & went through few principles of Management. His class ended before lunch & we went for lunch. I could meet a few new people here. They were inspiring. Time ended with chana bhatura. Then was Professor Ramesh Tathgat`s lecture. His lecture after Chana Bhatura was indigestible even I did not have the capacity to sit for so long. Patience is something I lack in. Somehow I could manage to sit & keep listening to each & every aspects he told. He told several things about ISME as well as about Management. He told several examples of different aspects of planning which we have learnt as theory earlier. I was happy that day with a hope to go to Didi`s place. I went to hostel. Where didi sent the car & I went to her place. Meeting everyone I knew. I was happy & I slept early with again some challenges to be faced next day.

Day 4:

Got up early in the morning. I kept waiting for the car to leave me at the gate. I was tensed. I was worried. I don’t know why it was but yes I was not happy. Having no choice I reached the gate & hopped on to a bus to my college. College was about 6Km. I had to change the bus but unfortunately I could not find another bus & went for an Auto. I reached the class, everyone was waiting after the lecture. I was unaware of things which were going to happen. I went and sat in the class. Today it was again Prof. Pavekars class. He was a good teacher. I kept silent & attended the class. Somewhere in my own thoughts. I was confused but showing full attention. I could check out all the practicalities he taught us. He was inspiring. He was funny at times, serious at another. He was practical at time, logical at another. His examples were quite motivating. The class ended before lunch. I did not had my lunch as I was not feeling good after coming back from home but I kept sitting at the Lunch place. Aditi introduced me to two of her friends. They appeared to be good & simple. I went to Preeja mam and told her about my Passion of writing. I even handed her some of my writings so that I can be involved in other things around. I was again not very happy but found some way to be. I went to the class & now it was some rules and regulations from Library mam & from other teachers too. Library mam was good she guided us with a number of things. I felt happy to be a part of the library. Then a session on MS Office it was yes boring for me. The college ended after the lecture, we were given some Anchor books. I came back to the hostel. Later I went to the market to eat something & just called Aditi. She said she was going to do Statistics. I was happy to know that I can also do that & I started off with it in the room. I did not go to the Gymnasium even. I was a bit disturbed even didi asked me to come home but I wanted to adjust so I did not go. Finishing off with a few things. I talked with Sandeep for few hours & went for even a walk where I met Eshant. Eshant was the army guy. He had some warmth in his talks. I felt better with this good thought I came back & slept in room.

Day 5:

Again an early morning. Hanuman Chalisa was something new today. It was curtsey Sahil`s Laptop. I was listening to it. Getting usual to life I was even a bit happy. Today was the first motivational lecture from Professor Athical. Talking about a number of things. I could analyze to find some better ways to fight challenges. Thinking continued as the lecture continued. I was still somewhere in my thoughts of being alone. I was feeling better after his motivation. I went for lunch. Lunch was good with kofta & roti. I was happy after it. I was analyzing things. Talking to several people I was happy. Continued was Professor Pevekar`s lecture. His inspiration again was astonishing. He was new in his own way of teaching, involving the whole class in his discussion. I asked some queries. He answered all what I wanted to know. Then in-between the lecture Vasant Sir & Athikal Sir came. They told us about next day schedule of the introductory function followed by Bangalore sightseeing. Prof. Pavekars class ended & we went back to the hostel. I don’t know but yes I was disturbed. I even called didi she again asked me to come home. I wanted to but did not go. Didi is so caring I thought & became happy. I went to my room talking to Ajay(my flat mate) & Sandeep I slept late around 1:30Am.

Day 6:

I got up a bit late as we were to reach at 9Am and did the usual things. I was bit fine today may be because I knew I will be at Didi`s place the next night. I went to the bus. Today something was different in my mind may be a poem was emerging. I bought an apple that too for Rs.16./=. I soon reached the college. I opened the laptop & started to write something which was in my mind. I soon realized it came out in the form of a good poem may be. I showed it Preeja Mam & her comment was “good”. I asked her if I can deliver it in the Introduction function. She agreed. The function started & I delivered the poem. I was happy that everyone clapped. The function ended with the chief guest’s speech. I continued to sit there. We had a group photo & then lunch. We soon sat in the bus & left for Hostel from where we had to go to Lal Bagh & Forum. I had asked Akshat to come to Forum. Lal Bagh was boring but some talks with Srinivas & Aditi were good.

We reached Forum. Akshat came and we had something at MC Donald. We were to leave that place by 8:00Pm. I left Akshat & I left the place. I was happy as I was going to Didi`s place. Chatting with Aditi, Manju & Priyanka, we waited for the bus. The bus soon started & soon I was at didi`s place. My orientation week was over. Next day was a rest day & the day when I am writing what you are reading. I slept comfortably with just a hope to do things with full confidence.

This week taught me a number of things but I learnt MBA is learning practically what I have learnt earlier. Hoping things in my favor. I just pray to God to help me when I need. He knows everything and everything is in his hands. This is the belief I have formed in my mind.

Thanks for reading

Utsav

My BIMTECH Interview

The 30th of March 2007, my dream day, as admission to my dream institute was to be decided. I was on the verge of fulfilling the dream of being at BIMTECH. It was 8:30 AM in the morning when the mobile shouted and I got up at the DRDO guest house, Timarpur, New Delhi. I saw it was call from ma. I took call and just talked to ma a little bit and gave phone to Papa. Wanted to sleep a little more, till 9AM, but could not. 29th of March was a hectic day. Papa ordered coffee and kept asking for breakfast which I denied. I asked him “What is the rent of the room?” He said “Rs.40/=”. I could not believe. After a short while I got up and took coffee. A quick brush and bath followed. I got ready for the interview. We started for BIMTECH at 10:15 AM. On the way we decided to have something at Atta, Noida. I ordered a chicken Mg Grill, A MC Aloo tikki, fries and 2 large shakes. Road to BIMTECH has 6 lanes with divider. If I am given a car I would like to test it with the highest speed. Chacha always says that he drove at 140 km/hr. I feel he can not do that. Anyhow, we soon reached BIMTECH. I asked papa to go inside as I waited with the candidates. Soon we were asked to come inside. I went inside filling up a few formalities on the gate. I went inside and sat in the seminar room as we were directed. It was around 12:30 PM. I kept waiting there. Some students from BIMTECH were roaming around. I kept waiting! waiting! waiting! waiting! waiting! waiting! waiting! waiting!. At 1:15 PM, we were given a few papers and were told about the essay writing. The topic was “Balance between Professionalism & Family”. This was something beyond us as neither we have a family nor know anything about professionalism. I thought for a while and started writing. I wrote around 1-1/2 page and handed it over. The word limit was 250 words. I wrote around 180 words that too with difficulty in 15 mins. I thought it to be unfair to give such a topic to youngsters like us. Soon we were given a presentation by one of the students of BIMTECH. It started, with a few slides about the history of BIMTECH and then followed by infrastructure, academics, placement, etc. Masters program in insurance at BITECH impressed me. I was tensed and thinking all this nonsense. I was called to the corner of the hall for the PI, Personal Interview. We in a group of about 8 students assembled there. We were taken for the interview to another part of the institute in a room. I went and sat on chairs provided at the corner outside the room. Mine was the second number. I kept waiting as the first student was called inside. While sitting out I started talking to a girl who was from Miranda House. We realized that the interview almost went on for half an hour. She came outside and after few minutes I was called inside.

I was confused and I even thought to accept Insurance if I am selected. Something or the other was just hitting my mind like “will I be selected?”, “am I suitable enough?”, “do I have capabilities to be selected in one of the major institutes of the country?” I was frightened and confused. However, my ISME confirmation was in hand. Papa had already paid the provisional fee. This was a major satisfaction. Anyways, all that apart BIMTECH BIMTECH BIMTECH BIMTECH is my dream and I want to achieve, this was in my mind. It would be one of the happiest days of my life when BIMTECH would be the luckiest institute to select me.

I went into the room which was fully air conditioned. There were three lions sitting in the zoo. I wished them . My body froze and there was no heat to melt it even. I some how sat on the chair. The first lion roared at me saying “tell us something about your- self” I started with my already prepared answer. I continued pretending that I haven’t learnt it. Then suddenly the second lion roared “Why should I select you?” I said “Sir I have qualities of becoming a good manager, I am very adaptive - I adjust, I have organizing abilities, I have an analyzing mind, etc. etc.” Then another one roared saying “which was your favorite subject in graduation?” I said “Sir we had a subject called Business Studies in our 12th class and this particular subject has been divided into several parts in B.Com. I like all those subjects like Marketing, Business Environment, etc.” One of the lions busted “what have you learnt in Business Environment?” I answered “The basics of the environment or the infrastructure which facilitates business?” He said OK. Another question came loud and clear to my ears “why commerce? Your parents are engineers?” I now buzzed out saying “Sir I wanted to be an IITian but I have realized that IIT is not for me. I am not that good a student and do not have much interest in science. I had more inclination towards commerce. This I have realized after my 9th class?” As I finished I was scratched with a question “if you are given an opportunity to open a retail store in India? What will be your action? Whom will you target?” I said sir “the initial store I would like to open will be at a developed town like Banglore. I would like to develop it as a one stop shop. I feel these days young generation has money but no time to spend it. I would like to create environment where they can fulfill all their needs.” As I completed a question emerged “Do you know any other retail chain other than Wallmart?” I said “Carefour, Marks and Spencer, IKEA etc.” Then another lion roared saying “If you are given three countries to go to what will be your preference?” I said “The first will be Germany followed by USA and Singapore.” He said “Why Germany?” I said “Sir my father recently visited there and I really cherish the culture & and the beauty of the country. People there are really helping and they care for you.” I finished and then I was asked a few more questions which unfortunately I don’t remember. After that I was asked for my MAT score card. I showed it, they noted some numbers and then finally I was asked to leave. I said thank you and left the den of lions.

I came out and was immediately surrounded by “kya poocha? “What did they ask you?” I told what ever I remembered. A response form was given and I was asked to fill it, go to seminar hall and wait there. Other candidates told that my interview was held for almost 45 mins. I went to the seminar hall, filled the form & kept waiting then and there. As I was waiting I met a girl from Dehradun. She had been selected to IILM, Gurgaon & Petroleum University, Dehradun. I was talking to her discussing something or the other to pass time. Soon her name was called and in few seconds mine. We were asked to assemble for the next difficult task GD- Group Discussion.

There were 18 of us grouped for the GD & we were then taken to the ground floor. We all went to a class room which was very cool as it was AC. A thought shot my mind “How can some one study in this cozy environment? Teachers will have to make it really hard to make the subject interesting.” A voice disturbed my thoughts as Utsav was to be seated at 11th Position. Hey this is lucky; I am 11nite that means I was born on the 11th. Now we kept sitting trying to maintain the body language till almost 4:10 PM. It was a long day. Two persons emerged who were the lions of the GD. They opened the envelop. The topic was “Work Smart Not Hard”. I pretended making points but I kept thinking “How to put the diamond quote.” Some one started the GD, and then the Miranda girl spoke then another girl followed by some boys speaking the pro and corns of it. Then a boy emerged with saying CAT is about smartness. We have to decide which question to attempt and which to leave. I got chance to fit the quote. I emerged saying “smartness and hard work are the two sides of a coin and they are complimentary. We know a famous quote “Diamonds are not diamonds until they are refined and polished.” So we have to work hard to become smart. For CAT, we worked hard and then only we came to a stage of choosing the right questions.” The GD was taken from my court and some one said something, voices converging from all corners. I tried to make my convergence but could not do that. In a short time the lions started to give a chance to everyone who had not spoken. Then the Dehradun girl was asked to sum up, she did her job. Lions thanked for the wonderful GD. We left out of the room. I asked people “I guess we can leave now.” Everyone said “I guess” and I left, called papa and asked him where is he? After all I had to face another interview. Everyone will ask “kya poocha?”

I entered Nidhi Bhabhi`s residence, papa was waiting there. I wished bhabhi and auntie and started telling them the whole thing. I told almost what all I could remember. Soon auntie got some popcorn and ‘kachauris’ which were really required. I had a glass of cold drink. We kept talking as uncle came inside. I wished him and repeated the whole process. Soon papa and I left for Roorkee. We decided on the way to have dinner at my chacha`s place at Meerut. We conveyed it at Meerut and headed to Meerut.

This was my dream institute & I hope I will be selected. Still if I am not I have ISME in hand.

Thank you everyone who helped me to at least face this day & made me reach to the interview.
Utsav

My first admission call

The 19th of March 2007. I woke up at 6:55 AM for my tuition. It was a bright and pleasant morning. It was the first day of the year according to the Hindi or Lunar Calendar. I got up and switched on Word Space. It was playing Roobaroo from RDB one of my favorites. While enjoying the song I washed my face and brushed my teeth quickly. I was not very much interested in going to the tuition, wanted a little more sleep. Still I left home at 7:10 AM for the tuition. Reached there at 7:15 AM. As usual teacher was late but I as usual took the news paper and started going through it. Cricket-Politics-Cricket-Politics was the tune of the paper. Then soon my colleagues came to the tuition followed by the teacher. I wanted to ask her “Mam aap roz late kyo aate hoo” but I could not do that a little frustrated with the boring schedule I went inside took the book and started listening to the Fire Insurance, topic of today. Soon I heard a voice ‘that’s all for today I have to go early we will continue tomorrow.’ I thought thank god! I just got up wished her and left. I started the scooter and went to on the main road. I was going to home feeling like ‘ja kar adha ghanta aur sou ga’. Then a wild noise came I realized I have made an accident I mistakenly or unmistakably had banged my scooter into a riksha. I got down asked the person ‘bhayia choot too nahi lagi.’ He said ‘nahi meri bhi galti thi’ I thought ‘chalo yeh mere se too accha hain kam see kam apni galti too maan raha hain ma ke terms me’ I said ‘chalo koi nahi’ realizing that the scooter had been damaged. I just thanked god and came back home. Went to ma-papa, as usual they were discussing Civil Engg. Department. I told them about the accident and what was expected happened ‘a quarrel with papa’. We can’t digest without that I am sure for that now. Finally I called the scooter mechanic asking him for the availability of the broken parts. I called my great friend sardar/hindu/tarun/roshan…etc etc… He is also an item. He too can not digest without asking some stupid question. He asked-I answered in the most starange way possible and asked him to get ready in 10mins. I think ‘sardar hain kaha hua hoga tayar’ left home in 15mins and when I reached lift mobile shouted ‘kaha hain I am waiting’ I said’ I am coming’. I reached his house after knowing each and every detail of the accident we went to the Kinatic showroom to leave the scooter for repair. The mechanic made me choose some parts. I also did my job asking him to complete it in an hour. I left with Tarun for my Accounts tuition on his TVS now when I sat on it and gave raise to move it. Sounds started coming out of it. I felt they are saying ‘yeh kaun sa pahad rakh diya mere upar.’ We reached tution one piece. I parked it and we went inside. Now it was tring tring now what oh it was Taruns cell phone he went out to take the call as if he was discussing Pakistan bombardment strategy. Anyways sir taught us and asked us to do the questions. Meanwhile sardar ji asking me to make it fast. I asked a few doubts of the previous day and left to take the scooter. We reached the showroom saw each thing minutely, paid the bill and took the scooter. Tarun and I went to my place. We reched there at qurter to one. We were in our room trying to study something. Soon papa came inside with a packet followed by ma saying ‘ek jaga too ho gaya’. I could not believe it at an instance but after reading the letter had to believe it. I was happy. I checked it. Tarun congratulated me and left. I then stated to discuss it with papa for different opinions with all the questions bouncing my mind weather to join or not followed by lunch. We were still discussing after the lunch papa-ma went to sleep. I called up Aditi asked her about the ISME result she was also a contestant. She said ‘abhi nahi aaya’ I said ‘ok if it comes do let me know’ and told about mine she congratulated me and hanged up the phone. Then I sent several SMS to every one regarding the result. I was happy Akshat called, Bade Mama called, Daddo called to congratulate. Then Aditi rang up saying ‘mere bhi hoo gaya’ I congratulated her. Then I told it to Richa didi she was happy and said ‘it will help you gain confidence.’ I was happy told it to Vikrant. Then sent a mail to few people. After all it was my first call that to with my own efforts. By the time it was 4 PM. Soon the bell rang. Pawan & Ashish came we started studding we continued the same till 8PM after which they left. I then checked my mail and orkut off course. Soon the phone rang and Nangia Uncle congratulated me first of all I thought ‘Where did he come to know?’ I thought it to be Vinamra but I was wrong it was Vikrant. Vikrant told me this later. Then I had my dinner followed by TV. At 10:30 PM I started doing some numerical finished with it by 11:30PM and went to bed.

I was happy and named the day ‘First Lunar day- The Lucky Day’.


Utsav

My First Interview

The 22nd of January 2007, date of NIILM Interview. It was the next step after MAT. Experience of MAT result was good which resulted in some sort of confidence to face the interviewers and answer their questions. This time papa could not become the Jinn of Aladdin and help me in all or even some of the questions. 22nd of January 2007 first day of my life when I could understand the actual meaning of nervousness? I was so nervous in the morning now I understand. Mama, Papa & Driver Ji all wanted to stop for tea while going but I did not let them stop. I had not even had a glass of water since morning. I was so confused with lot of questions shooting my mind like:

What will they ask?
How will be the institute?
Will the other candidates be like me?
Who will take the interview?
Will they ask academic related questions?
Will every one favor me for any thing?
Will my personality reduce my marks?
and all sorts

I had a feeling that give me one chance to express my self. I will surely hit your mind and form a place there which will rebound only one sentence in your mind “Select Utsav…….…..Select Utsav………Select Utsav………Select Utsav………Select Utsav Select Utsav”.

Finally we reached NIILM. We went to the entrance asking for where to report for the interview & GD. The guard asked some stupid questions which I could not register. Papa emerged as the Jinn of Aladdin as he was when my MAT result was to come and answered all the queries of that guard. We entered the institute. No one was at the reception as it would be in a Government of India office. Finally we could locate the person concerned who directed us to the conference/seminar hall. I sat there with three more people and papa standing on my side. The other people informed me to fill a form. I took it and started filling the details. I could realize my hand shaking. I was unable to write. It took me a few seconds to believe it. Still I continued and filled in the details. In the mean while papa went out. He came back after a short while and pointed out that the form was to be filled in capitals. Shit man! Why did I not see that? He brought me another form and I started filling it. I was much more comfortable this time. I could write the details and complete the form more appropriately. After completing it I realized that the form was incompletely photocopied. The back of the form was blank. Damm! why with me? Anyways, I decided not to fill the form again. I sat there. One person who was accompanying another candidate kept on speaking I wanted him to be quite but may be his talks distracted my mind and soon I was much more comfortable. I was at ease now. I saw that the candidate near to me was a 95.something %tile. It was like where have I come? Others had 86, 85, ----- percentile. I took a deep breath in relief. In the next few seconds a girl/ lady came inside the hall and asked us for the forms. I gave my form but could not give the photycopy of MAT score card as I was not carrying it. She asked us to get it done from the basement. I went there and got things done. I even completed the blank page of my form through some one else’s form. Then we went back to the hall where we kept waiting again. It was difficult to pass time. Anyhow, I had to pass it. She came back to the hall and we gave our forms. She stapled form and took it with her and asked all of us to accompany her.

She made us sit in a lounge and told us that there would be a round of GD & interview. I was in my own thoughts and just kept waiting for some one to call us. I could hear some weird kind of noise all the time I was in the NIILM campus. I noticed it was the sound of some female shoe. I thought some one is tensed and people make such funny sounds. I thought it to be impartial on my side. I kept waiting there and then we were called inside. Oh my god. I realized that some one’s heart beat was going too high and unfortunately it was me. Anyways, I went inside where two girls/madams were sitting. Another question triggered my mind “is this institute run by females?” One of them called the name of one candidate Utakal. I thought she was calling me in some improper pronunciation. Utkal was the 95%tile guy he went forward and sat there. Then some other names and finally I herd ‘Utsav’. I wished them and sat where I was directed to. They made us comfortable. Both of them said that there will be an easy GD. I emerged and asked for a paper and pen. She said ‘you must be having the pen’. I said ‘yes’ and she gave us 2 pieces of paper to distribute in 6.How improper distribution. I torn it into 4 pieces and took mine. She gave us a topic “Leaders are born not made” saying it to be easy. I thought what is the difference between born and made. I was too tensed and could have spoiled everything. Then I just gave a hell to all the thoughts striking my mind again and again. In the mean while the bell rang and the discussion was started. Some one started with some opinion and all. I kept quite. Later some one opposed it. Then I heard a voice saying something in Hindi. He was a candidate from LKO. He said “diamond is not a diamond unless it undergoes a series of processes like cutting ,polishing etc..” all in Hindi. Now, I got a chance and elaborated his point saying ‘school makes a leader, environment makes the leader’ and all that philosophy of life. I was happy and sat cool. Then there was discussion going on in which I participated a little bit. I could see the 95%tile chap not speaking even a word. I was again happy thinking my competition to be over. Later the two girls asked the two candidates not speaking anything to put their views which they were unable to. Some one summed up and we were asked to wait outside. We were informed that we would be called one by one for the interview. We were asked to sit outside and wait for our chance.

We were waiting outside and talking about the GD. I thought why all this. ‘Jo hona tha ho gaya’. Is there a need to analyze each and everything? Anyhow ,we kept talking and waiting. After a short while we heard a bell. Then the peon called one candidate inside. He was the 95%tile guy. He went in and came out in less than 5 min. As he came out we all jumped together on him “What did they ask you?” He said they asked why you did not speak in GD and all. Then it was the turn of second followed by the third candidate. Then another shock when the peon said ‘Utsav’. I got froze. Who melted me I don’t know may be Delhi`s heat. Anyhow I went inside the room which appeared to be really a battle field. Passing my resume I sat in the battle field for being killed, only 2% hope of being saved. Then suddenly a voice came asking ‘Well Utsav tell us something about yourself’. It was easy. I took a short breath and thought ‘is question ko to phod du ga’ I started “ I am Utsav. I have come from Roorkee. Roorkee is situated in the hilly state of Uttrakhand. I feel I have qualities of becoming a good manager………………”. I completed and then second question was shot on me as a bullet “what kind of books do you read?” I said “short story and fiction like One night….., Solve your….., Five pointed someone., etc ” They said who has written five point someone I bursted ‘Chetan Bhagat’. What have you learnt from ‘five point someone’? I said ‘The book revels a picture of IIT Structure from a student’s point of view. I have always seen IIT from a professors eye’ Now I was clever knowing the next question to be related to parents and IIT that’s what happed and the next question was triggered at me “What have u gained from IIT?” I was confident and said “Learning sprit and all such things?” Now the sword was with them. Next question Why MBA? I explained them like “I enjoy meeting people, I love to travel, I have convincing capabilities I like organizing activities. I feel that we should do what we enjoy. I can explain you this with an example If you give 100 rupees to a tennis player and ask him to run 1 km he might say no but the same person will pay 100 rupees to play tennis and run 1km while playing. He enjoys playing tennis so he is not only run but ready to pay for it. In the same way I enjoy doing activities related management in retail. With MBA I can do all this more effectively and I will enjoy the job and not just work as some one who takes it only as a 9 to 5 job.” This answer was curtsey Harsh Uncle. Then the next one came straight into my ears. “What are your weakness?” I said “I feel I have two weakness one is I am emotional but I emotionally get involved in the work assigned to me. The second one follows that I am a bit overweight but I am trying to reduce.’ I could see cute smiles on both the girls face. I thought stupid answers are better than logical one. That’s not true I know. After which a bullet in the form of a question was fired into my head which followed a longer route through my ears. ‘Do you remember any theory taught in BCom/12th?’ I said ‘can I think for a moment’ who will say no and that’s what happened they said ‘yes’. I thought and said scalar chain with gangue plan 14 principles. They said ‘that’s ok we just wanted to test that if you revise you will remember’ I said ‘I will definitely remember’. I was asked to leave now. I got up from war chair. I asked about the result. They said to enquire from the administration. I greeted them and came out. Went straight to the administration and asked about the result. She was the lady who took our forms. She said ‘We will let u know in 15 days via post.’ I said ‘Thanks’ and left the room. Then I said bye to all the other candidates and came out of NIILM.

Now again there was an interview Mama and Papa asked ‘kya pocha?’ I answered all the queries and we went to canteen. I ate a samosa the first meal of the day at around 12:30Pm.

Further we left NIILM to eat at Haldiram and to meet Nidhi Bhabhi @ BIMTECH.

Later on I just had a thought that this was a good experience. I had a hope to be selected.

Thanks Harsh Uncle, Nangia Uncle, Ma, Papa, Minta, Sanjay Sir, Punit Mam, Col Rawat for the confidence to face the war of questions.

Next step is a try at BIMTECH for MBA in Retail.

I hope NIILM and BIMTECH would be lucky to select me as their students.

Utsav

My experience with my MAT score

The 24th of December 2006. A day when my life was to be decided. My MAT result, The last hope to get addmission to MBA was to come. I was at Bangalore and decided not to check the the MAT result before coming back to Roorkee. I was not sure of it and I wanted to enjoy the last day of my holidays at Bangalore.My flight to Delhi was at around 7:30 in the evening. Akshat and I had lunch at my masi`s place.Then we both had some fun at Akshat`s place. Later we went to the airport. We reached there around 5:30Pm. We decided to have a cup of coffee at CCD. After that Akshat asked me to enter the airport. In the mean time I checked the flight time. My mind was all the time in the result which could change my life. I was so tensed but did not show it on my face. I found my flight was late by 2 hours. Akshat accompanied me inside the airport. I was really tensed. We had another cup of coffee and sandwich. Finally I headed towards the security check. Akshat left later we bid bye to each other. I was looking around while entering the security gate immediately the police men asked me to keep my mobile and other things to pass through the X ray. I went for the check. After the check I collected my mobile and other articles and settled down. My mobile started to ring. It was Anju`s call. I could analyze that MAT result is out. She told me what I knew. She told me she has got 550.50. She also informed me some other people’s score which I could not register. Anyhow I was tensed and just started looking for cyber café. I could find TATA`s wifi which was very expensive, still I purchased it. I was soon on my lap top checking result. The page appeared asking for stupid questions like roll numbers, form number, etc. I called papa asking the answers of all these stupid questions. He came up with the answers in just a few seconds as a jinn of Aladdin. I punched the number and other details. My heart beat going too high and soon the processing was over. The result was displayed. I was just shocked to see 687.50 with 91.88 percentile. I checked all possible things which could verify that it was my result like my name, date of birth, fathers name, etc. I called papa then I called ma and then Akshat and in 20 mins I made more than 15 calls. The list went on and in another 1 hour I made calls to all the number on my phone book. I kept explaining people that around 92% people out of the total number of people appearing in MAT are below me. I was very happy. Ma called me and told me that they had sweets I also purchased a chocolate and ate it. I was really happy. Everyone I called was happy. I had sacrificed several things for this day and the day was here.

Soon the boarding for flight started. I was in the aircraft and then again a tension triggered my mind "weather I will get admission with this score or not". I think this tension is a part of life. It will continue as life goes on. We have to find happiness from all this.
With the end of the day I realised that this was a true experience with life.

Thank you everyone who helped me achieve this day of success.

Utsav