Driven by Dreams

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 out

Work with heart and harmony

— Somil Khandelwal,
MBA, Balaji Institute of Technology & Management

Dreams don’t work unless you do. These words perfectly describe my experience at our college fest BizVista. This year, I got the chance to be part of a wonderful team that put up a stall called “Cheesecake Express”. It wasn’t just about selling cheesecakes, it was about learning, growing, and celebrating the spirit of teamwork and entrepreneurship.

Having done business before, I thought I knew how things worked. But, this experience taught me something deeper, that success isn’t just about planning or profit, it’s about passion, unity, and the courage to face challenges together. From early preparations to the last minute of the fest, every moment brought a new lesson. We faced small hurdles like managing supplies, dealing with rush hours, balancing taste and presentation. However, every challenge made us stronger and more connected as a team.

The most beautiful part was seeing people smile after tasting our cheesecakes. Their appreciation felt more rewarding than anything else. It reminded me that true happiness lies in creating something that brings joy to others. Cheesecake Express became more than a stall—a memory and a reminder that when we work with heart and harmony, even small efforts can leave a big impact. BizVista gave me more than just an event experience—it gave me gratitude and an opportunity to grow in life. This fest will always hold a special place in my heart as a moment when hard work, friendship and dreams, came together to create something truly sweet. I thank the university for giving us this opportunity.

Rediscovering beyond the jersey number

— Avhishek Singh,
MBA, BIMM

There was a time when my entire identity revolved around football. For three years, I lived and breathed the game, until one day life took an unexpected turn. When I left professional football, I felt directionless. The silence after the cheers was deafening. I was lost, unsure of who I was without the sport that had defined me. Then, a friend who had just graduated from Sri Balaji University, Pune (SBUP) told me about the institute. I took a leap of faith, applied, and scored 97 percentile in the entrance exam. That one decision changed everything. At SBUP’s Balaji Institute of Modern Management (BIMM), I found a new field to play on, the one that tested not my athletic skills, but my resilience, discipline and leadership. I started as a class representative, then joined the corporate project studies team, and eventually became the president of the sports council.

When our university decided to participate in the All India Universities West Zone Football Championship after 25 long years, I was chosen as captain. With a team that had no prior experience and limited facilities, we defied the odds and won the championship. Standing on that field again, but this time as a leader and mentor, felt like life had come full circle.

I was later appreciated in front of the entire university by our Chancellor, recognised for leadership, discipline, and maintaining 100% attendance. My journey at SBUP was not just about academics — though I maintained over 7 CGPA and secured one of the highest-paying placements at SuperProcure, after interning with Tommy Hilfiger. It was about rediscovering myself beyond the jersey number. Football taught me how to fight. SBUP taught me where to go next.

IMC 2025—a transformative experience

—Aayushi Patwa,
MBA, BIMM

I had an incredible opportunity to attend the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025— Asia’s largest tech and digital innovation event held in Delhi. This event brought together visionary entrepreneurs, groundbreaking startups, global tech leaders, and future-shaping innovations under one roof. From AI-powered solutions and 6G advancements to space-tech, robotics and IoT pioneers, IMC was truly a hub of next-gen technology

One of the most enriching parts of our journey was exploring the innovation and startup booths, engaging with founders, and learning first-hand about the cutting-edge ideas shaping tomorrow.

We also had the chance to support and contribute to our seniors’ startup pitch in front of investors and industry leaders, gaining valuable exposure to real-world entrepreneurship, pitching dynamics and investor interactions.

This experience not only broadened our perspective on India’s digital growth but also motivated us to think big, innovate fearlessly, and contribute to the nation’s tech-driven future.

We also witnessed some of the most exciting tech advancements of the future, including immersive VR technology by Snapdragon—experiencing next-level virtual reality and future digital interfaces; advanced telecommunications innovations by the Indian Navy that showcased India’s growing strength in secure communication and strategic tech capabilities; private 5G/6G network solutions, understanding how ultra-fast networks are shaping industries, smart cities, and next-gen digital infrastructures.

Making the most of every opportunity

— Priyanshu Raj,
Bachelor of Computer Applications, SBUP’s School of Computer Studies

Two years ago, I arrived from Bihar with big dreams and an open mind, unsure of how I would fit into the vibrant tapestry of Sri Balaji University, Pune (SBUP). Today, when I look back, I realise how much these months have shaped me - not just as a student, but as a leader, a team player, and most importantly, as someone who is eager to learn from every twist and turn.

For me, every day brings new possibilities. As NSS Secretary for the academic year 2023-24, I took up the challenge to promote social responsibility, organising drives and inspiring my peers to give back to society. My role as lead of the central coordination team and as coordinator of an anti-ragging squad at SBUP, taught me the importance of clear communication and unity. The experience of visiting the India Mobile Congress as a delegate was truly eye-opening; being among industry leaders and innovators broadened my technological horizons.

Further, I ranked among the top five in the Coopathon at the ESG Global Conclave, was a proud member of the corporate relations team, and twice participated in the ArambhNational Level Entrepreneurship Competition, igniting my passion for innovative thinking. Representing our university at the prestigious state-level Karandak Competition was equally meaningful, allowing me to bring our campus culture to a wider audience. With every event and every responsibility, I discover new strengths and areas to improve. SBUP has made me believe that growth happens outside comfort zones, and that if you have the courage to grab opportunities, the journey will be truly extraordinary.