SIMS Pune GE PI WAT / GDPI Experience

SIMS (Symbiosis Institute of Management Studies)

Group Discussion:

• Duration: 15 minutes
• Panelists: 2
• Participants: 8-10
• Topics:

1. Grey
2. Indian politics
3. Foreign relations of India
4. Infinity

Feedback – Group Discussion:

• Group discussions involve active participation from candidates on diverse topics.
• Participants are evaluated on their communication skills, logical thinking, and ability to express opinions clearly.
• The duration is typically 15 minutes, allowing each participant to contribute to the discussion.

Personal Interview:

• Average Duration: 10-12 minutes
• Panelists: 3

Excerpts From Interview 1:

1. Why MBA?

• The candidate is questioned about the motivation behind pursuing an MBA.

1. Work Experience Inquiry:

• The panel raises concerns about the lack of work experience and questions the decision to pursue an MBA directly.

1. Academic Performance:

• The candidate’s average grades in engineering are discussed.

1. College Experience:

• Questions about what the candidate likes and dislikes about their college experience.

1. Current Affairs:

• Questions about newspapers read, the impact of Indian politics on the economy, and knowledge about India’s GDP.

1. Personal Routine:

• Inquiry about the candidate’s daily routine.

1. Improvement Suggestions:

• The candidate is asked for one thing they would change to enhance the interview experience.

Excerpts From Interview 2:

1. Name Meaning:

• The panel inquires about the meaning of the candidate’s name.

1. Local Issues:

• Questions related to the sealing of commercial shops and illegal colonies in Delhi.

1. Sports Participation:

• Inquiry about the sports played by the candidate and the potential impact on cricket development.

1. Views on B-school Curriculum:

• The candidate’s opinion on the way B-schools conduct their curriculum is discussed.

Excerpts From Interview 3:

1. Introduction:

• The candidate is asked to introduce themselves.

1. Academic Switch Inquiry:

• The panel questions the decision to switch from engineering to MBA and why not pursue M.Tech.

1. Current Affairs:

• Detailed questions about recent news are posed.

1. Corruption Eradication:

• Inquiry into the candidate’s views on what India should do to stop or eradicate corruption.

Tips for Candidates:

1. MBA Motivation:

• Clearly articulate your reasons for pursuing an MBA.

1. Work Experience Clarification:

• Be prepared to explain the decision to pursue an MBA without prior work experience.

1. Academic Explanation:

• Address any concerns regarding academic performance.

1. Current Affairs Awareness:

• Stay updated on current affairs, especially those related to politics and the economy.

1. Express Opinions Clearly:

• During group discussions, express your opinions clearly and listen actively to others.

1. Prepare for Personal Questions:

• Anticipate personal questions about your routine, family, and background.

1. Stay Informed:

• Stay informed about local issues and their broader implications.

This overview provides insights into the selection process at SIMS, including group discussions and personal interviews, along with excerpts from different interview experiences. Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly and showcase their communication and analytical skills during the process.

Selection Process at SYMBIOSIS for MBA Admission

Written Assessment Test (WAT) – Essay Writing:

• Average Duration: 30-45 minutes
• Candidates are given topics related to cricket, cinema, culture & politics, and are expected to write essays within specified word limits.
• Examples of topics include:
• Turning points of India related to cricket, cinema, culture, and politics.
• Image-based essays on various subjects, such as bomb blasts, women empowerment, artistic freedom, and more.
• Writing on current issues and providing solutions.

Feedback – Personal Interview:

• Average Duration: 10-15 minutes
• No. of Panelists: 3

Excerpts From Interview 1:

• Background, including academic scores and engineering in CSE.
• Work experience in workshop & production in charge (freelancer).
• Family background.
• Motivation behind pursuing an MBA.
• Transition from engineering to MBA.

Excerpts From Interview 2:

• 60% in SNAP with defense category.
• Two years of experience in a company dealing with BPCL.
• ECE engineer.
• Hobby in anchoring.
• Differences between sales and marketing.
• Questions about BPCL subsidies.

Excerpts From Interview 3:

• High percentiles in CAT, XAT, and SNAP with an economic honors background.
• Introduction.
• Discussion on strengths and weaknesses.
• Short and long-term goals.
• Reasons for pursuing an MBA.

Excerpts From Interview 4:

• 98.98%ile in CAT with 18 years of experience in Infosys.
• Why MBA and why over other experienced candidates.
• Specialization preference (Engineering or Management).
• Family background.
• Talent in singing.

Excerpts From Interview 5:

• 99.52% in CAT with a background in Computer Science Engineering.
• Learnings from college life.
• Importance of academics.
• How MBA will help in digital media.
• Addressing concerns about individualistic personality repression.

Excerpts From Interview 6:

• 98.93%ile in CAT with B.Tech in ECE.
• Introduction.
• Choice of stream.
• Impactful books in the hobby of reading.
• Decision to pursue HR after engineering.

Excerpts From Interview 7:

• 99.09%ile in CAT with B.Tech in Mechanical.
• Specialization preferences and questions about HR.
• Learnings from training.
• Hobbies discussion.

Excerpts From Interview 8:

• 69%ile in SNAP and 62 in TISS with a BDS background.
• Course choice explanation.
• Pros and cons of clinical dentistry and hospital administration.
• Job priorities related to post, working environment, and salary.

Excerpts From Interview 9:

• 85%ile in SNAP with B. Tech (CSE).
• Hobbies, including drawing.
• Motivation behind pursuing an MBA.
• Questions about placement and future plans.

Excerpts From Interview 10:

• 95.8%ile in XAT with B. Tech (CSE) and 9 months of work experience.
• Introduction.
• Role in college fest and responsibilities.
• Reasons for choosing Symbiosis.

Tips for Candidates:

1. Essay Writing:

• Practice essay writing on diverse topics within specified time limits.
• Develop clarity and coherence in expressing ideas.

1. Personal Interview:

• Be well-prepared with an introduction and a clear understanding of strengths, weaknesses, and goals.
• Research and articulate why the specific MBA program is chosen.
• Connect personal experiences and achievements to the MBA goals.
• Practice answering questions related to academic background, work experience, and current affairs.
• Be ready to discuss and defend opinions on various topics.
• Showcase confidence, communication skills, and a positive attitude.

This overview provides insights into the selection process at SYMBIOSIS, including the essay writing section and excerpts from different personal interviews. Candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly and showcase their skills and motivations during the selection process.