Few words that define Gautam sir would be: Dexterous, for the way sir remembered my whole PDP journey with me, and always gave me apt advice; Motivator, for the way he believed in me, even when I did not; Humble, and Down-to-Earth. The sessions with him were very helpful, as they gave me 'personalized' insights into where I went right, where I went wrong, and how I can improve further. Sir was always available for help and advice. He patiently listened to the detailed narrative of the actual interviews; and provided relevant mentorship. All the CL gurus and faculty members are extremely well-versed in the procedure followed at the IIMs; hence, the mock PI sessions provided good preparation for the same.
Post joining the program, the first lecture you get is from the coveted Gautam Puri. Contrary to the presumptions ('Bossy') I had about GP, my first interaction with him was amazing. He was welcoming, approachable, and motivating at the same time. The kind of people you would want to talk more, share more because of the warmth and connection he forms with your story. The essence of personalized touch to the program couldn't have been more enriching. The ideas and improvisations GP shared were not just for the B-school interviews, but for life. I am glad I was part of this program; and will always be a part of CL.
It felt like Gautam sir wants to listen to know you better and is genuinely willing to help you figure "Your Story" out. My interactions with GB sir were very helpful. He is very interactive and is willing to walk you through your doubts. His style helps you figure out your own solutions and hence gives you the confidence of believing in your own abilities. I think this is the approach that gives you the confidence to tackle almost anything that will be shot at you in those prestigious B school interviews. I knew there are twenty ways of doing things but he helped me find the best amongst those. CL PDP simplified my doubts and helped me find the right answers myself.
Preparing for CAT with a full-time job is always a challenge, but the CL Night Classes is the perfect recipe for success. Post joining the program, the first lecture you get is from the coveted Gautam Puri. Mind knows he is a legend, but of such stature might be arrogant and always caught up. Post CAT, I took part in CL PDP program where the CL boss was my mentor. I had just the 5 interviews, with a timeline as wide as 10th of February to 18th of April.
GP sir is a very supportive person, as was evident during my first interaction with him. He counselled and guided me in such a way that I was able to capitalize on my uniqueness and strengths. He made a comprehensive analysis of my mock interview performance, based on confidence and knowledge of current affairs, work-ex domain, career plans, etc. He then guided me to the sections that I need to improve on in the coming days to ace the interviews. He motivated me; and provided me the correct direction. During SOP writing, he consistently reviewed my SOP; and suggested changes. The PDPP is a good fit for those aspiring to crack interviews and enhance their interpersonal skills.
Throughout my preparation for CAT and other MBA entrances, I had relied on ‘GP ka Funda' when it came to building my strategy for the entrances. And, it was a sheer coincidence that GP sir became my mentor when I joined the PDP Personalised Program! His counselling helped me regain my lost confidence and trust in myself. Interacting with him made me aware of my strengths and weaknesses; and so I could easily talk about them in my interviews. Also, despite having a busy schedule, GP sir was always available on phone, answered all my queries, listened to my SOPs and my interview experiences, and guided me regarding institute selection. I am really grateful to him to have done so.
As a child, I was 'pathetic' at studies. I was at the bottom of the class, my rank was equal to the number of students, who would pass in the class! But fortunately, my academic graph has a positive slope. I was poor at school, but I got better over the years in college. In my engineering college, I started studying for the first time. Gradually, I became one of the toppers in my class; and eventually, started teaching half my class before the exams. That way, I had my first teaching experience in my engineering college. From being poor at studies, I transformed into someone to whom a lot of people owe their graduation degrees!
"The Most Charismatic Mentor"
"Thalaivar - A True Leader"
"Mr. Positive"
"The Best Counselor"
As a child, I was very good at History; and that was because I was a voracious reader. My interest in History stems from reading 'Amar Chitra Katha' as a child. It retells the stories from the great Indian epics, mythology, history, and folklore in a comics format, which is extremely enjoyable and knowledgeable.
The humor in 'The Adventures of Asterix' is unmatchable. Hands down, it is the best comic book possible with the added bonus of enhancing your vocabulary.
My Father
I believe my father was significantly ahead of his time. He never pressurized; and left all final calls to me. I and my father were equal decision-makers in everything. There were no restrictions on my sister, either. She was encouraged to take her own decisions; and build a career. When there was a lot of noise surrounding my decision to leave my job for an MBA, my father told me “Abhi nahi risk loge, toh kab loge?” ‘Freedom to do what you want and not imposing your will' is something I have learned from my father.
Mohammed Rafi is the Don Bradman of singing. He is the expert; and no one can touch him.
1Kishore Kumar, as he is not just a good actor, but also a great singer & an unmatched comedian.
2He would probably be a tour guide, as both History & traveling drive him.
3To explore South America; and go on an adventurous wildlife safari in Africa.
4Loves traveling, loves driving, & has been part of the Raid-de Himalayas off-road adventure.
5Enjoys senseless comedy. 'Half Ticket', 'Padosan', & 'Delhi Belly' being some of his favorites.
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