“Besides learning, I joined Vignana Jyothi Institute of Management (VJIM) to not only rediscover myself during the process but to give a direction to my career,” says Karna Tejesh.
Meet Karna, a VJIM graduate who managed to bag his dream job at Flipkart India, despite the adverse challenges. Today, he is leading a team of off-role employees at the organization and inspiring thousands of PGDM aspirants to pursue their interests.
“For me, PGDM was not about passing exams, but to take home some experience and learning from it. The placement period acted as a realization that the objective was not to get through an interview, but a dream job. Luckily, I was able to identify the path that would lead to it,” adds Karna. Self-reliant learners like Karna are active towards learning because they are aware of their limitations and strengths, and directed by their own strategies and goals.
A new chapter
Karna was introduced to the idea of doing an PGDM years back, and he had no vision of how his life was going to change for the good. Prior to getting employed with Flipkart, he did his internship with Gestamp Automotive where he analyzed and examined the logistics and raw material for improved efficiency.
After being hired by Flipkart, he embarked on the PGDM journey to attain the goal he desired, feeling optimistic that he finally had a platform for all the energy and ideas stored in him. This was finally a moment to seize opportunities, while also adapting to the corporate culture. To this, he adds, “Through these two years, Prof. Niharika and Dr. Poonam Jindal played a crucial role in pushing me through all the high’s and low’s. To get a mentor as these two along with Mr. Sishir Polasani is a sheer blessing and good luck. Now, looking back, it’s evident how much I have evolved as a person because of their guidance and constant support.”
In his role at Flipkart, Karna has found an amazing fit. He works with a team of off-role employees, manages day to day operations, manpower, and resource planning and management. “Because of the PGDM program, I’m able to witness a substantial development in my core business concepts, leadership skills, cultural awareness, and emotional intelligence. Reflecting back on my time with VJIM has already given me nostalgia, as it was one of the most memorable years of my life,” says Karna.
As a bit of advice to aspirants, he adds that one should always be honest and dedicated to their profession. He suggests, “Logic and presence of mind will take you places. If not, there are many more tunnels to cross.”