Beyond Expectations: My Exceptional Orientation Experience at IIM BG
Attending an orientation program often feels obligatory, but my recent experience at IIM BG shattered all my expectations, transforming what could have been mundane into something truly exceptional. Let me take you through the impactful four-day orientation program that exceeded all my hopes and marked the unforgettable beginning of my academic journey.
I experienced warmth and hospitality the moment I stepped onto the IIM BG campus. The organizers had meticulously planned every detail to ensure that newcomers like me felt welcomed and valued which instilled a deep sense of enthusiasm in us.
The first day began with a nutritious breakfast and a brief overview of the day’s schedule. Nearly 500 students eagerly boarded buses to the first-day orientation venue, the International Convention Centre in Bodh Gaya, filled with anticipation and excitement.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome from our anchors, who beautifully encapsulated the spirit of being students at IIM BG, congratulating and welcoming us into this esteemed institution. We were honored to have Mr. Sanjay Kumar Agarwal (IAS Secretary, Agriculture & Transport Dept., Govt. of Bihar), along with Mr. Gautam Kumra (Senior Partner and Chair, McKinsey & Company, Asia) as esteemed chief guests. We also had renowned industry leaders as speakers: Mr. Sunil Thakur (Partner, Quadria Capital), Dr. Vivek Jha (Head Strategy and Operations, GDD India, Novartis), Prof. Vidyanand Jha (Professor, Organizational Behavior, IIM Calcutta), Mr. Sidhartha Satpathy (Vice President HR Talent and Culture, CAMS), Mr. Abhishek Ranjan (Sr. Director & Global Head Sustainability & Administration Facilities, Brillio), and Mr. Kamal Nath (CEO, Sify Technologies). Our esteemed director, Dr. Vinita S. Sahay, along with all chairpersons, faculty members, and staff of IIM BG, greeted us warmly.
The highlight of the morning was a remarkable dance performance paying homage to goddess Saraswati, followed by the lighting of lamps, symbolizing our reverence and gratitude to the goddess, led by the speeches of chief guests, speakers, director, chairpersons, faculty members, and staff.
Dr. Sahay addressed the audience, welcoming our chief guest speakers and expressing gratitude for their valuable contributions amidst their busy schedules. The auditorium resounded with applause, reflecting our excitement and anticipation. Each guest speaker took the stage to share profound insights and experiences. Mr. Sanjay Kumar emphasized the importance of time; Mr. Sunil Thakur spoke about talent; Dr. Vivek Jha encouraged resilience; Mr. Kamal Nath explored insights into AI; Mr. Sidhartha Satpathy urged us to broaden our horizons; Mr. Gautam Kumar discussed strategic competition; and Mr. Abhishek Ranjan highlighted the journey of life as a continual transition.
The orientation program aimed to equip us with essential knowledge for navigating our new academic environment. The sessions were well-organized and informative which left us feeling prepared and confident about the journey ahead.
After a fulfilling lunch, our excitement soared up as senior students delivered heartfelt performances that left us inspired. Dr. Sahay returned to the stage, sharing her journey in shaping the institution and acknowledging all who contributed to its success. Her motivational words encouraged us to strive for excellence and take initiative at every opportunity.
The highlight of the evening was a captivating case study session led by the guest speaker Prof. Vidyanand Jha, who shared practical insights and wisdom gained from his experiences, emphasizing mindfulness and enriching our understanding.
Day two began in the familiar setting of the Niranjana, IIM auditorium, where Prof. Pankaj Kumar (Associate Professor, Pamplin College of Business) motivated us with insights on resilience, Dr. Neeta Nagar (M.D., Client Account Leadership, Accenture) guided us on driving solutions, and Mr. Navneet Nilendra (IAL Teacher and Wellness Coach) emphasized the importance of mental well-being in life quality. Throughout the day, esteemed chairpersons, faculty members, and staff enlightened us about the institution’s curriculum, policies, and the vital roles of various committees in shaping our academic journey.
Days three and four were dedicated to outbound activities at Udaan, the institution’s sports complex, designed to foster team building and impart valuable corporate lessons through interactive sessions and fun activities with our peers.
Reflecting on my orientation experience, I can confidently say it exceeded my expectations in every way. What could have been a routine event became an extraordinary start to my academic journey. The warmth of welcome, wealth of information, interactive sessions, and inspiring atmosphere have left an indelible mark, leaving me eager, motivated, and ready to embrace this new chapter at IIM BG. If this orientation program is any indication, I anticipate even greater things during my time at this esteemed institution.
Author: Raghavendra Mani Tripathi
About the Author: Student of HHM 02
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