When I was looking for B-Schools I was quite sorted that I want to pursue a career in data and analytics. I joined PGDM in Business Analytics at Vivekanand Business School, Mumbai in the batch of 2016-18. At the time, what stood out to me was VBS’s industry relevant curriculum and career readiness program.
I was not sure how my career would progress at the time, but I was intrigued in the profession. As a Deputy Manager at Gallagher Center of Excellence today, I can see how my PGDM at VBS has influenced my approach to data and business problems.
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Learning to Connect Data with Business
I loved a part of the Business Analytics program, where it taught me to see analytics through the lens of business. Not only were we learning concepts, but we were trying to see how they could be used in business contexts.
The program has contributed to my structured problem solving and analytical skills. Most importantly, it helped me to see the problem before the data. I have been using this approach in my professional life, spanning across Risk Analytics, Predictive Modelling, AI enablement and Business Intelligence.
A big component of my job today is to deal with the complex data and convert it into insight that can help inform business decisions. The integration of analytical skills with the business context has proven to be of great value to me. I collaborate with stakeholders across functions and drive data informed decision making to improve business outcomes and operational efficiency.
A Mentor Beyond the Classroom
The faculty also had an impact on my experience at VBS. I am especially thankful for the guidance I received from my mentors during the program. They inspired me to take a deeper look into analytics and understand how I could use the ideas we learned in business situations. I was often challenged to think outside the box and understand the logic behind it.
What I value even today is that this association continued beyond the PGDM. We have stayed in touch over the years, and it is good to know that I can still reach out for a fresh perspective and advice. The fact that this guidance has continued over the years, even as my career has evolved, is something I genuinely appreciate.
Return on Investment of My PGDM
As far as my career is concerned, I find my PGDM to be a good investment, as it has brought in skills which are relevant till date in the field of Analytics.
The business experience, analytical thinking and professional exposure provided me with a solid foundation to build upon and progress into more specialized roles. Although the tools and technologies will evolve over time, the understanding of a business problem and asking the right questions and linking data to decisions remains critical.
For me, that is the true value-add of my PGDM. It didn’t have to be the first opportunity after graduating. It helped me to think a certain way, provided a foundation to build my career upon.
The Learning That Stayed With Me
As I reflect on how I spent my time at VBS, I see that the greatest learning didn’t just happen in any one area or tool. It was learning to recognize a problem, business perspective and applying analytical thinking to find a solution. The PGDM program’s mix of core subjects, electives, and advanced business research encouraged me to approach business problems through a research-oriented lens. Regular presentations, assignments, and group projects enhanced teamwork and collaboration skills that I still leverage in my profession. My journey at VBS has been one of continuous learning, adaptation, and growth.
I am truly grateful for the values, skills and career readiness that I have received from my VBS journey and for shaping me into a responsible professional I’m today.
Abhishek Sharma
Deputy Manager
Gallagher Center of Excellence
PGDM in Business Analytics | Batch 2016–18
Vivekanand Business School, Mumbai
