Not giving up on any situation can do wonders. And Ashish Jain, a commerce graduate and alumnus of a prestigious MBA college, is a perfect example of how being persistent and taking the right decision can change your life for the better. Currently placed with Parag Milk Food, Ashish shares his journey towards success
Born in a very traditional family of Kota, Rajasthan, Ashish was exposed to several virtues of life since his childhood. For him, family was the most important thing. Living in a joint family had helped him shape his personality and attitude, and looking up to his cousins came naturally to him. “A joint family is like the branches of a tree. They grow in different directions, but their roots remain the same. The love and care they get, the sense of security, and growing up in the presence of grandparents is the most peaceful feeling. Living in a joint family also taught me how to be a team player, respect others’ views and move forward whilst taking everyone together,” he shares. Little did he know that these virtues would give him succor in the future. While education also took the driver’s seat for Ashish, following his cousin’s footsteps to study at a prestigious institute was a life-changing decision for him.
After completing his commerce graduation, he thought a CA degree would be the ticket to start his dream business. However, just a couple of months into the course, he decided to shift to another course. His brother who was studying in a city institute of telecom management, told Ashish about a course which could pivot him towards starting his own business. And that’s what got him to Pune. Since the beginning, he had a hunch that this was the start to something beautiful. On the first day of college, amidst thousands of students, his traditional attire of dhoti, kurta and pagadi stole the show. And since then there was no looking back.
What boosted his confidence was when his friends ran to him to get their statistics issues solved. “It was quite welcoming to know that my statistics subject knowledge would benefit all. All hope and confidence lost was resumed by this small act when even my professors tagged me as the go-to-person when it came to statistics,” he smiles.
Living his student life to the fullest, Ashish made several good friends who always pushed him to achieve the sky. Taking part in college fests, chit-chatting, burning the midnight oil, long walks with friends, street food and having fun while keeping his dream in mind was what made his college life memorable.
What also made an impact on his graph of growth was the way knowledge was imparted by the college professors. “They were understanding, patient and well-informed. Their office doors always welcomed us, even at odd hours. There were times when some of the professors even skipped their lunch to solve our issues. Having genuine teachers during your college days truly aids your professional growth,” says Ashish, speaking highly of his college professors.
His hard work soon started bearing fruit. Statistics being his plus point, Ashish made sure to make the most of it. In the first year itself, he topped the class with flying colors in his favorite subject. “Securing 93% in statistics meant inching one step closer to a bright future,” he says.
“Getting orders on the first day of my survey surely boosted my confidence. Now I understand the value of gathering experience before taking a giant leap. Most importantly, I not only hope to be self-sufficient, but I also want to support my family financially soon”
Ashish is a person with several talents. And dancing or entertaining was one of them. All through his school and college life, he had been an average student, he says. But taking part in the college fest had completely transformed him as a person.
After a lot of persuasion from his seniors, Ashish finally agreed to be a part of a dance skit for the KuchAnokha event. He had to perform in front of a houseful auditorium on a lavani song. “The stage was set and there was no looking back. Our dance mesmerized everyone. So much so that all the professors immediately came to greet us backstage after the end of the dance,” he reminisces. And conquering this moment and giving a brilliant dance performance made Ashish realize his capabilities.
While his friends prepped for the placements, he had other dreams-starting his own business. But eventually, under the guidance of his professors and friends, he chose the right path. “I was told that instead of starting a business so soon, I should first gather as much experience as I can which will support my dream later. I was a little upset as I had to put my business dream on hold. But looking back, I think that was the correct decision,” he smiles.
The path to success is always paved with hardships which Ashish was quite aware of. Considering all his capabilities, he put his heart and soul into the selection rounds for getting placed with the best company. Understanding his interests, he shortlisted a few companies. And as per him Parag Milk Food would certainly fetch him the technical and practical know-how he envisioned. Finally, his prayers were answered when he received the appointment letter from his desired company. He couldn’t stop smiling after reading his initials and designation- Mr. Ashish Jain, Business Development Executive.
It’s hardly been a few days since his joining, but Ashish is surely creating waves in the company. After a day’s training, he was directly sent to field work and survey at the Pimple Saudagar branch, with his seniors. Courtesy his training, hard work, all the knowledge gathered in his college days, and with the blessings of his family, Ashish bagged two important orders for his company. “Getting orders on the first day of my survey surely boosted my confidence. Now I understand the value of gathering experience before taking a giant leap. Most importantly, I not only hope to be self-sufficient, but also want to support my family financially soon,” says a modest Ashish.
“A joint family is like the branches of a tree. They grow in different directions, but their roots remain the same. The love and care they get, the sense of security, and growing up in the presence of grandparents is the most peaceful feeling”
There is nothing more amazing than a friendly father-son relationship. As a boy grows up, there are several who leave an impression on him. But for Ashish, it was his father, Bupendera, who always supported him through his life’s philosophical journey. His teachings indeed gave Ashish the strength and courage to face the world. “My father always taught me to be independent, no matter what. Being emotionally strong has given me enough mettle to face any situation. And the credit goes to my father whose words of wisdom never failed to inspire me,” he says. Other than his father, his professors and friends are the ones who kept motivating and inspiring him.
Another person who left a positive mark in his life is Dr. (Col) A Balasubramanian, President, Sri Balaji Society. Ashish never actually got a chance to meet him personally, but he was always in awe of his persona. “He (Bala Sir) is a symbol of someone who is flawless-be it on stage advising his students, talking to his colleagues or staff, or for that matter anyone, Bala Sir is always the same-in one word he is simply perfect. And the best part about him is he sees to it that everyone around is seamless too. Even though I haven’t met him in person, he has taught me a lot. I really look up to him,” says Ashish.
By Ekta Katti
