“With determination and tenacity in pursuit, every goal is attainable.” - Interviewed by Satarupa Sen Bhattacharya in February 2005

Mani Singhal, FMS Delhi

Tell us about your educational background and other pursuits - curricular and extra-curricular.
I am a B.Com (Honours) graduate from the Sri Ram College of Commerce, Delhi University and am currently pursuing MBA from the Faculty of Management Studies, Delhi. I have been a diligent student throughout my academic life and performed well consistently. I won several academic distinctions and scholarships for academics in School as well as College. However, I did manage to balance my studies with co-curricular activities in debating, essay writing and recitation. Apart from that, I have also handled positions of responsibility as the Head Girl, Editor of school/college magazines and as Treasurer in college events.

Why did you decide on management as your career option? Was it based on some research you did or on your aptitude?
Management to me seemed a logical extension of my background in commerce. It was meant to take my understanding of business and its dynamics to the level that is required to perform effectively in the corporate world. I found that the industry interface the institutes provide during the MBA programme exposes you to the intricacies of a manager’s responsibilities. My aptitude in logical reasoning and my analytical ability were considerations in pursuing this career.

What was your preparation plan for the various management entrance tests in terms of timelines and other strategies? Did you adopt any special strategy for cracking the FMS test?
My preparation for all the entrance tests spanned a period of over eight months. I devoted time everyday and divided it between the sections on which the tests are based. Two to three hours daily in the initial four months was sufficient but as the final dates approached, I not only increased the time devoted but also started to take tests in simulated conditions. The day following a test was spent in analysing the mistakes made in the test and the overall scope of improvement in the score. Such analysis, I believe, went a long way in providing me with critical inputs about which section my efforts should be focussed on. The FMS test preparation was no different as the pattern in all entrance tests is almost the same with minor variations. Moreover, since the FMS test happens to be in January, students have enough time for practice and to attain a reasonable comfort level as far as handling such variations is concerned. “

How did you prepare for the extempore section of FMS? How would you advise candidates planning to take the FMS entrance?
Since I participated in many debating and essay contests, I was pretty confident about facing the extempore section of the FMS selection process. I would advise prospective candidates to consider the Extempore as an exercise in creative thinking. Most of the time, the topics range from current scenarios in business or economy to adages, old sayings, or even abstract topics relating to a colour. In fact, the topic assigned to me was White. When you are faced with such topics, it is more important to just keep speaking while connecting the thoughts that come to your mind. A tip here: you could ask someone to give you any topic at random and practise in front of the mirror by shooting off on that. Some of my friends benefited from this technique.

How did you prepare for the Group Discussions and Personal Interview stages of the admission process?
This requires a multi-point preparation plan. The general reading from newspapers should be done on a continuous basis. In addition to that, you could find out about the past GD topics set by different institutes. I suggest that you list points for and against the current topics that are receiving a lot of attention in society and media and structure your thoughts on the most expected ones.
One of the essential prerequisites for handling an interview well is to be thoroughly and absolutely sure about your personal objectives and information. A question you are almost bound to face is “Tell us about yourself/your background.” Easy as it appears, you need to have a well-rehearsed and coherent answer for this one. Good presentation needs preparation.
Do not get stressed in any part of the interview. In case you do not know an answer, never bluff, simply say a polite ‘no’. Be clear in your mind about why you want to do an MBA. Also revise one or two of your favourite subjects well. Finally, it’s all about confidence and attitude.

Which area do you plan to specialise in? Did you decide on it immediately after you got admission or was it based on self-analysis over time? What suggestions would you give to readers on choosing their specialisation?
I intend to specialise in finance. This decision was based on my interest, aptitude and strengths in the subjects related to this field. However, I did not make up my mind about specialisation immediately after joining the institute. I explored the career opportunities and typical job profiles in the different fields. I suggest that instead of coming with a fixed mindset, candidates should be open and flexible about choices. You could use your experience during your summer internship (that every top business school has as a part of the curriculum) to make logical and well informed decisions.

Did you have a role model?
I do not believe in the concept “ of role models. I feel that every individual is unique and should not aspire to be like someone else. Each person has a specific set of talents and corresponding opportunities in life and hence, it is not logical to map your own life to someone else’s who is not even remotely similar to you. Having said that, I also feel that it is important to learn from all the people you come across— everyone has something good that you can inculcate. “

To whom or what would you attribute your success?
Success is always a function of industriousness and a bit of luck. Luck here means the availability of the right opportunities. I attribute my achievements- both academic and extra-curricular to my diligence and perseverance. With determination and tenacity in pursuit, every goal is attainable. If I were to advise all aspirants, I would say keep believing in your heart and sincerely follow your aim. Is an MBA needed for all those who want to pursue a career in management? MBA as a degree may not be a “ mandatory requirement for a career in management. However, being an MBA student, I feel that it prepares you adequately for the demanding work requirements. The guest lectures, hectic work schedules and frequent inputs from the industry prove valuable in making the two years a good training period. “

Where do you see yourself ten years from now?
I want to excel in the field, I have chosen for myself. I want to work hard and my effort in the initial years will be concentrated on being recognised as a talent in the organisation, which I feel will open up tracks for further growth. “

What would be your general advice to our readers who aim to get into FMS or other premier institutes?
A regular study schedule is to be followed honestly. If you can take care of that, the rest will follow. It is important that you have the satisfaction of putting in your best. You should always find time for relaxation, which is necessary to rejuvenate yourself. A relaxed state of mind is very essential for success in a competitive examination.