Game for Change
When asked, how would you describe yourself, he was quick to respond - optimistic, go-getter and someone who is always game for a change. Be it focusing on extracurricular activities from a young age or deciding to pursue his post-graduation after two years of experience in the corporate world, the life choices he has made have transformed him into a better version of himself. In conversation with Abhay Malik who is currently working with Aptech, as their Area Sales Manager, he talks about the importance of taking part in extracurricular activities, shares a few tips on how to prepare for campus placement and more.
Growth is a crucial aspect of our life. If we are not moving forward, it means we are stagnant in life. This, in turn, signifies that we are moving backwards. For ambitious people, this situation is a complete no-no, agrees Abhay, “Right after I completed my graduation, I decided to start working. The first organisation that I worked with was good. And a few months later, I decided to switch to another company. Although the experience was great, I felt that the growth was stagnant.”
Before working with TCS, Hyderabad as their Process Associate, he was working with Habitech Infrastructure, as a Marketing Executive. He said, “I believe – whatever makes you comfortable, fails to provide you with a great experience. On the other hand, whatever makes you uncomfortable is your biggest opportunity for growth. In such cases, what works beautifully is adding value to your knowledge. Your undying zest for knowledge is what gives a thrust to your ambition.” To explore the various avenues that his life had to offer, Abhay decided to move on with his post-graduation after working for two years. In 2018, he shifted to Pune to complete his MBA in Marketing in Finance.
Back to the beginning
Abhay was born and raised in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. After completing his initial education, he moved to Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, to complete his graduation in B. Com, amidst which he even undertook a course in digital marketing – giving him a free ticket to enter the corporate world. Talking about his educational journey so far, he said, “Be it school or colleges, I was always an average student. However, what set me apart from the rest was my love for sports and other activities. I agree, academics are important, but I also believe that extracurricular activities are what build your personality.”
A national throwball and a state-level basketball player, Abhay had an affection towards sketching and taking part in other school and college events as well. Explaining the importance of taking part in extracurricular activities, he said, “It gives you a chance to explore the world, to network, to understand yourself better, and to meet new people. Trust me, this will surely change your life.”
"Academics are important, but I also believe that extracurricular activities are what build your personality"
Abhay Malik with his familyA new journey
Although Abhay has his fair share of work experience before setting foot in his post-graduation course, his main aim was to get placed in the best company. And for which he was ready to give more than whatever was expected out of the student. “For my dreams to come true, the first step was to accept the strict rules of the college. Students need to realise that the corporate culture isn’t easy to embrace. Our college is trying to make the shift from campus to corporate comfortable. The least we can do is abide by the rules. It will surely work in our favour in the coming years,” he said. And the next step was to be a part of the campus placement team. This gave him a 360-degree view of this process, making it easy for him to prepare for the future.
Understanding your weakness, and working on them, makes one stronger than ever. Abhay knew his hold on the quantitative round wasn’t strong as compared to other rounds. To excel in that beat, he took the help of his subordinates. He said, “My friends helped me a lot to understand the concept. And when it came to group discussion rounds, we conducted mock discussions every day. This gave us the impetus to perform well. For the personal interview round, I mostly went with the flow. With this experience, I applied for three companies and easily got through Aptech where I am currently working.” He is learning new things each day which is taking him one step closer to his dream of running his organisation that will have a positive impact on the people.
As Abhay Malik settles in well in the corporate world, he shares a few tips for his juniors on how to prepare for campus placement and more...
Abide by the college rules: I understand that students have the urge to rebel in their early 20s. But keep one thing in mind, the corporate world is not that lenient. The strict college rules prepare you to make the transition from campus to corporate easy. Listen to what the college says, it will certainly benefit you when you enter the corporate world.
Always go with your guts: It is advisable to discuss your situation with your close friends. The different opinions expose you to a plethora of options. And this is what will help you make a decision. That said and done, one should always go with their guts. No one but you knows yourself better. Make a decision and stick by it.
GD with friends: The topics given during the group discussion rounds are pretty simple. This round can be a piece of cake if the students keep themselves updated. Now, all you need is the right chance to put forth your point. Be calm and composed while making your statement. Make the best of it. Students are usually shy and some even hold themselves back when their turn comes. Things can fall in place, only if you practice daily. Have a mockup group discussion with your friends. This will surely prepare you for the best.
Extracurricular activities are important: Organisations are looking for students with a wide range of skill sets. This comes with experience, and mostly by taking part in activities apart from studies.
Extracurricular activities groom the students and prepare them for the later years. It inculcates qualities such as leadership, patience, commination skills, and a lot more. And these are the traits that the organisations are looking for in the students.