IIT Kharagpur MBA: Balancing Work and MBA | CAT 99.1%ile - Aman Jaiswal

I took 3 years off of my academic journey, and it was worth every minute to get into IIT Kharagpur.

As I approached the final year of my undergraduate studies, I faced a pivotal decision that would influence my career trajectory. Should I jump straight into the corporate world to gain valuable work experience, or should I pursue an MBA right away? After extensive reflection and discussions with mentors and family, I opted for the former. I believed that real-world experience would not only provide me with crucial insights but also equip me better to tackle an MBA program.

The Road to CAT Preparation

Three years later, it was time to revisit my MBA dreams. Balancing a full-time job with CAT preparation was demanding. My routine shifted dramatically: evenings and weekends were dedicated to intensive study sessions. The dedication and discipline required were significant, but my goal of studying at one of India’s top business schools fueled my determination.

99.1 Percentile; My CAT Strategy

I started my preparation by taking numerous mock exams to identify my strengths and weaknesses. My CAT prep journey made me  realize I needed to enhance my Quantitative Aptitude (QA) skills, even though I was confident in Data Interpretation and Logical Reasoning (DILR) and Verbal Ability and Reading Comprehension (VARC). Diligent practice of 30 questions per chapter from Arun Sharma’s QA book, significantly improved my quantitative skills.

As the exam date approached, I intensified my preparation. With just three months left, I took at least two mock exams each week. This strategy helped me track my progress, build stamina, and improve time management—critical factors for performing well under pressure.

When the results were announced, I was thrilled to secure a 99.1 percentile. The moment was a testament to my hard work and perseverance, validating my efforts.

Got a call from IIM Lucknow

The counseling sessions were a mix of excitement and nerves. I received counselling calls from prestigious institutions such as IIM Lucknow, IIM Kozhikode, DMS IIT Delhi, and SJSOM IIT Bombay. I also converted offers from several new and baby IIMs, along with other renowned management schools at older IITs.

Is VGSoM worth joining?

Among my top choices was the Vinod Gupta School of Management (VGSoM) at IIT Kharagpur. Studying here had always been a dream due to IIT Kharagpur's legacy as the oldest IIT and the pioneer of MBA programs in India. As per the 2023 NIRF Rankings, VGSoM ranks among the top 15 management schools in India, underscoring its esteemed reputation.

The IIT Kharagpur campus is expansive, resembling a town of its own. Cycling between hostels and classrooms is common, with bikes readily available for rent. The relatively smaller student intake at VGSoM fosters a close-knit community, enhancing personal connections and providing a more tailored learning experience. The vibrant campus life, filled with festivals and events hosted by various departments, offers ample exposure and extracurricular opportunities.

Life at VGSoM| MBA at IIT Kharagpur

I appreciate VGSoM's semester-based system, which I find less hectic than the trimester system used by many business schools. This structure allows for a balanced learning approach. Moreover, VGSoM offers a general management degree without fixed specializations, allowing students to customize their curriculum. This flexibility enables me to choose subjects across Finance, Operations, HR, and Management, aligning my education with my interests and career goals.

Can I do MBA after 3 years gap?

Reflecting on my journey from the dilemma of whether to gain work experience or pursue an MBA immediately, to finally securing a place at VGSoM, IIT Kharagpur, I am filled with gratitude and pride. The path was challenging and required unwavering commitment, but studying at a prestigious institution like IIT Kharagpur made it all worthwhile. As I embark on this new chapter, I am excited about the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead, confident that they will shape me into a well-rounded and capable professional.