Ripples on the brain

To me, a visit to the ISB couldn’t have come at a better time. Though many of my friends were living close to each other, we couldn’t meet as much as we would have wanted. In that scenario, it was great that most of us could make it to the annual alumni reunion. In fact, more that 100 guys (approx. 30%) from the 2006 batch could make it to the event. Personally, I had a gala time on both the days with the parties and the games. I relived our 8th term glory days during this trip.

The current batch of students seems to be experiencing the same set of doubts, disappointments and emotions that we had experienced at this time last year. With placements round the corner, many are re-evaluating their career options (after doing it for the first time during their application to ISB and during the pre-terms before the academic rigour took its toll and they forgot all about it). As one of the guys pointed out, the options seemed to increase initially after joining ISB and just when placements stare at them, they seem to be very restricted now. “Career switch” candidates are busy charting their course. Resumes are out for multiple reviews and suggestions.

I had a chance to talk with a lot of IT guys and set their expectations right. We had talked to them even during orientation, early this academic year, when we had a candid discussion on IT opportunities and salaries post-ISB and so, I guess, the discussions now weren’t as much shock to them as it was to us last Solstice. But, we assured them that the brand of ISB was obviously there and it will help them in career, even if (for a minority), it doesn’t help them in their first jobs. The message from my side was that the salary is not a pointer to the nature of work they will do. Many guys perceived to have had offers on campus with “low” salaries last year had terrific fitments to their role and had an opportunity to work on interesting assignments onsite very early into their jobs. The IT industry, save for a few leading companies, haven’t come to terms with giving the right opportunities to its MBAs, though the industry as such is convinced about the value these resources can bring. So, most of the guys will face the initial trouble before getting the role of their choice. For those that don’t fit the job well, the opportunities outside continue to be immense.

At this point, I can only imagine the flight of emotions the students will go through during the rest of their ISB life. The self-doubts and tension will increase exponentially into the placement week. The placement week will itself put them into such a severe stress that they would have hitherto experienced. Almost all the guys will emerge highly relieved from the placement week to enjoy their last terms thoroughly.

All the best to the Class of 2007!