F1GMAT: Tell us a little bit about yourself and your motivation to do an MBA?
Vineeth: Prior to my MBA, I was an Information technology engineer- hailing from Kerala, India. After nearly 4 years of working in the technology services field along with Infosys and Capgemini, the time was ripe for me to look out for different avenues. Hence, I decided to get my MBA. Currently I'm with IBM India, working as a marketing campaign planner, liaising with Italian counterparts.
F1GMAT: Did you set any selection criteria before short-listing your top five b-schools?
Vineeth: Some selection criteria that I listed before deciding upon the destination school were:
- Diversity of students (high onus on internationalization)
- Method of teaching
- Accreditations from governing bodies.
- Course Commencement date
- Location of the school
F1GMAT: In what ways do you think MIP was unique?
Vineeth: MIP has more than 25 years of B-school heritage and is EQUIS accredited. Moreover, it is part of a 150 yr old institution - Politecnico di milano. MIP also offered a scholarship and the possibility of an honor loan. Added to the fact that it is located in Milano- a real good city in Europe makes it a good package overall. People pay to go to Italy on vacation why not study out there, and embark on an interesting career as a result.
F1GMAT: Would you encourage others to attend MIP International MBA Program?
Vineeth: Oh yeah!
The study method consists of a good mix of case studies and classroom lectures. The number and quality of contacts that MIP has in the business world is impressive.
To top it all- MIP is truly international. In my class we had more than 20 different nationalities. The diversity and different experiences makes for testing times during discussions. However, it does serve up an invaluable learning experience, helping build a good foundation to pursue a career in the international business arena. Get in touch with alumni to get a better picture of the institution.
F1GMAT: 2009 was a challenging year for MBA graduates. 2010 is better than last year but the economy has not fully recovered. What advice would you give to MBA graduates coming out this year?
Vineeth: Network, network and network. During the MBA or with events related tot it, you’ll get countless opportunities to hobnob with industry professionals. Make full use of it. Most of the jobs aren’t really published. It'll pay to know someone on the inside, in such cases. Patience is also another aspect that ought to pay dividends in the long run. Don't completely compromise on your goals. You might have to find another route to achieve them.
F1GMAT: What was the most challenging part of the admissions process?
Vineeth: Trying to convey my motivation to undergo the MBA program, in a limited number of words, probably was much more challenging than the admissions interview, for me.
www.mip.polimi.it/en
Vineeth George Abraham is a MIP, Politecnico di Milano, School of Management MBA Alumnus 2008/09. He cracked the GMAT with a 740 and received a scholarship from MIP.