1.Tell us something about yourself?

My name is Ashok Suman and my native place is Hoshiarpur (Punjab). I’m a Mechanical Engineer graduated from IIT-Delhi in 2007 and I hold PGDM from IIM-Indore. Currently, I’m working with Amul as a Senior Executive of Marketing.

2. What pushed you to go for MBA?

To graduate from an engineer to the middle-level management of any company, one has to have an MBA degree from some reputed institute. I got an opportunity in the very first year after my graduation and didn’t let it go.

3. How did you prepare for CAT?

Practice, practice and practice. There’re no new concepts asked in CAT, every student is familiar with the things asked in the examination. The only distinguishing factor is how fast and accurately a person can respond.

4. From where you took the coaching and is coaching necessary or not?

I didn’t undergo any classroom sessions. Though, I subscribed to reading and coaching material from Career Launcher and Time. According to me, going for classroom sessions is nothing but sheer wastage of time and money. Rather, make a habit of practicing questions (from coaching material) for as much time as one may afford to give.

5. What was your strategy for GD/PI?

GD: In practical situations, there’s no hurry in GD sessions and 25mins is enough time for everybody to put down his/her points. Be assertive, clear and collaborative in your approach.

PI: One should be prepared for general questions (why MBA etc.) Again be assertive and have clarity of thoughts (about goals in life etc). Also, it is advisable to be familiar with current affairs. Build defensive tactics for your weak points (e.g. low grades etc)

6. In which attempt did you clear CAT?

In the very first attempt.

7. Which all institutes you had received a call other than IIM Indore?

IIM-B, IIM-C, IIM-L & IIM-K (didn’t apply for institutes other than IIMs)

8. Tell us something about the life in IIM Indore?

We have written a lot about life in IIM-Indore @ www.iimindore360.com

9. According to you, what is the right time to go for an MBA. Should economic scenarios drive an individual MBA plans?

One should have a work-experience of atleast 2 years and according to me the current year (2009-10) is the best time to enter into any MBA college, because one may expect a 2007 like situation after 2 years.

10. Any advice for future MBA aspirants?

The only mantra for clearing CAT is to practice and practice.