Learning and Transformation

An informal collage of campus stories where learners take extraordinary initiatives and leave lasting impressions. From grand celebrations to friendly gatherings, student-led projects to transformational leadership—their dedication and passion truly stands out

A life full of courage and growth

— Pooja Rai,
MBA, BIMM

I was never the kid who collected certificates or signed up for every school activity. I was the mischievous one who laughed too loudly, got scolded for talking, and always chose fun over formulas. For a long time, I believed not being “studious enough” made me less than those who seemed to have their whole life sorted.

But life has a way of pushing you into growth when you least expect it. Leaving my hometown changed everything. Suddenly, there were no familiar routines or comforting faces. I had to understand who I was, what I wanted, and what I could build on my own. That’s when I started focusing on personal learning, the kind that comes from experiences, failures, curiosity, and showing up every day.

With only `3000 and a tiny spark of belief, I started JustLittleQuirky, my small business. No fancy setup, no big investments, just my hands, my ideas and courage. Order by order, mistake by mistake, I built something that felt truly mine. Today, that small dream has crossed 1000+ orders, each one a reminder that even small beginnings can grow beautifully.

While running my brand, another passion began to rise for content creation on social media. Between classes, assignments, shipments, and late-night planning, I picked up my phone and started creating. And slowly, that world started growing too.

Balancing an MBA, business, and content creation wasn’t easy, but it taught me discipline, resilience and confidence, I never knew I had. And, when you grow internally, opportunities notice your back. That’s how I secured one of the best MBA internships at Kansai Nerolac Paints Ltd.

My journey isn’t perfect but it’s full of courage, mistakes, growth and heart. And it reminds me every day that you don’t need to fit a traditional mould to build something meaningful; you just need to believe in your own different.

Authority or Friendship?

— Aadarsh Joshi,
MBA, BIMM

Hey! You are vice president of council; won’t you help your friends?” the most common question I face regularly. When the student council was first established at the Balaji Institute of Modern Management (BIMM), a single question resonated through the halls: “Why these individuals?” Criticisms followed swiftly—claims that council members enjoy unrestricted freedom, preferential treatment from teachers, and opportunities to misuse influence. The reality, however, is more subtle and far more instructive.

The council holds no formal authority, we are simply students entrusted with extra responsibilities, not power. We make mistakes, take accountability, and follow the same rules as everyone else. Even when peers question us or assume otherwise, we stay calm and committed to maintaining campus decorum.

What truly distinguishes us is our role as organisers and custodians of campus events. We plan, coordinate, resolve last-minute challenges, manage schedules and budgets, and lead volunteers all largely behind the scenes. The greatest satisfaction comes when students share their learnings and enjoyment, reminding us that our efforts genuinely mattered.

The BIMM council stands out because we listen. We prioritise student concerns, seek faculty support when required, and remain approachable. While some advocate strictness, I believe in leadership rooted in guidance, empathy and support. In a senior role, I stand by them when they need, nurturing their growth and carrying forward the institute’s legacy.

From anonymity to an integral voice in the institute, the journey was both humbling and energising. I began as an academic coordinator, streamlined how class hours were managed, and steadily expanded my impact through consistent effort.

Now, as Vice President, I channel those lessons to empower others, proof that dedication and thoughtful leadership can turn small beginnings into lasting influence.

In sync with culture

— Arpita Gunwant,
BA-Liberal Arts, SBUP’s School of Liberal Arts

During Ganesh Chaturthi 2025 celebrations, I had the opportunity to be a member of Subhedar Dhwaj Pathak and learn to play Dhol as my primary instrument. Being part of this Pathak (group) helped me reconnect with the deep roots of Maharashtrian traditions, the cultural depth and the hidden art.

My preparation began two-and-a-half months before the main event. Regular sessions played a vital role in building both techniques and stamina. Learning and practising various beats, matching the pace, and maintaining sync and tempo with the group, require endless effort and concentration. The sessions were physically tiring, but they enhanced my dedication and discipline to learn more, and refined my confidence with the instrument. This journey also encouraged me to inculcate qualities like coordination and teamwork, which, when combined, create a powerful energy that defines this art form. The physical strains, like wounds, cuts, along with back and shoulder pain, were undeniable, but they didn’t lower my confidence.

Proper maintenance of the Dhol was an integral part of the process. The routine, which consisted of regularly tightening the ropes and adjusting and changing the drumhead, taught me the responsibility and importance of maintaining the instrument with respect and care.

Finally, after the unyielding efforts, I participated in seven to eight events with Subhedar Dhwaj Pathak. Each involved travelling, long hours of continuous playing, early mornings and late nights, but despite the challenges, performing before large audiences gave me a deep feeling of unity, confidence and accomplishment.

Overall, being a member of Subhedar Dhwaj Pathak was a meaningful experience. It enhanced my discipline and cultural understanding while giving me memories that I will always value.

From uncertainty to unforgettable memories

— Jagruti Goyal,
MBA, Balaji Institute of International Business

MBA was never my cup of tea, and I never imagined these two years would be such a roller-coaster of growth, friendship and discovery. When I joined Sri Balaji University, Pune (SBUP), to specialise in international business, I knew nothing about the field. Yet, from the very first day, the university became a place, where a beginner learns to stand tall and walk confidently towards success.

SBUP isn’t just a college; it’s a nurturing ground where discipline meets fun, and learning extends far beyond the classroom. From attending early lectures and being caught by faculty for sneaking snacks to sharing laughter with friends during long sessions, these little moments became some of my most cherished memories.

Teamwork taught me patience, disagreements taught me perspective, and the joy of winning the UTSAH-Aiyaswami Cultural Event strengthened my belief in collaboration. Post winning the cultural event, our college trip to Goa was another unforgettable highlight—those days of laughter, freedom, and bonding will forever remain close to my heart.

Though attendance was never an issue, reaching college on time surely was. Amidst all the hustle, I found a friend worth a thousand—one of the best gifts the university gave me.

The most rewarding part of this journey came when I was placed in my very first interview with Bruhat Logistics. That day, I truly realised how two years of effort and perseverance can pay off in one defining moment. Looking back, the university gave me much more than an MBA — it gave me confidence, resilience and a lifetime of memories. It’s not just an institution; it’s a family that prepares you to face the world with courage and pride.