SIBM, Pune – An experience

Let me get straight to the point and start by saying that I would be covering two major topics about MBA at SIBM i.e. the SIU campus and the overall MBA experience. Before getting started, let me tell you that choosing SIBM over other business schools was the best decision I have made. SNAP is one of the toughest exams to crack. Along with the quant, logical reasoning and verbal ability sections, it also has a GK section which is a major deciding factor for scoring well in the exam. I have done my graduation from SCMS(UG), so I would say that I’m a little exposed to the SIU culture which doesn’t only focus on individual learning, but also on group learning and learning based on real life situations which equips a ‘Symbiosis Product’ with the skills to perform in the best possible way in today’s corporate world. So, let’s get started with a brief description of the SIU campus.

The campus is situated in Lavale, which is on the outskirts of Pune. Actually, it’s more of a resort than a campus. Don’t believe me? Google it! I mean come on guys, the campus has a helipad. For the people who think it doesn’t make sense for a college to be this far from the city, let me tell you why it makes complete sense. All the students here are very passionate in what they do and an isolated campus helps them focus efficiently. A student is exposed to many distractions if the college is situated in the city. Here, however, all you can do is be focussed and enjoy the nature and play football, cricket, table tennis, squash, badminton and golf. Forgive me for the sarcasm. So, even though the campus is on the outskirts, a student has many things to do. Let me talk a little about the mess. The food here is ten times better than any other mess food. Enough said. This brings me to the second point.

MBA at SIBM is the flagship course of SIU. There’s a reason for this. SIBM, shortly after its inception in 1978, was ranked as one of the top business schools in the country. The main objective of this institute is to produce world class business leaders. I am using the term ‘world class’ because SIBM’s batch strength has a lot of international students. The students come to SIBM instead of going to some other MBA institute in the US or the UK because SIBM is definitely value for money. If a student is getting the same academic and corporate exposure in less money, he/she will choose that particular institute. Same holds true for the Indian students. When the foreign nationals and the Indian nationals come together under one roof, continual exchange of ideas takes place. A lot of learning takes place in these two years. This ensures that every student of SIBM carries a certain level of calibre after graduation.

Let me end by saying that SIBM is known for its academic rigour. Getting into SIBM is different, getting out of it is a completely different ball game. This institute will make sure that you get out of your comfort zone and learn as much as you can during your tenure. You won’t be taught the usual boring theory of the subjects. The focus will be more on case based learning and real life business situations. This is what makes this business school different than those typical business schools.

Tushar Ganvir,

First Year MBA student @ SIBM, Pune.