An MBA, One Year, and Zero Room to Breathe
Last updated on: 23rd April, 2026 | Student Experiences | Srinath Arun - PGPM'26 | Great Lakes, Chennai << back to blog
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Published on: 15th April, 2026
Generally, an MBA is spread over two years, and given that I opted for a one-year MBA program, it initially felt like a herculean task. The way the first term unfolded only reaffirmed that belief. However, with the support of the faculty and my peers, I gradually realized that an MBA isn’t as daunting as it is often perceived to be.
Coming from a commerce background—having completed my B. Com followed by ACCA—the subjects taught in the first two terms were largely familiar. That said, the fast-paced nature of the program made it extremely challenging to keep up. However, my prior experience of working in a middle-office role, where all deliverables were strictly deadline-driven, proved to be immensely helpful in adapting to the rigour of the program.
Truth be told, pursuing a career in management requires copious amounts of coffee and adrenaline. Yet, the connections and friendships built over the course of this one year are truly unmatched. You end up spending nearly 60–70% of your time with some of the brightest minds in the country, and the outcomes of such an environment are invaluable.
Over the past eight months, I have learned a great deal about myself—most importantly, how to carry myself in a professional setting and how to remain calm when faced with pressure. I was also fortunate to be a part of the Placement Committee, which gave me the opportunity to represent the college in front of recruiters. Through this experience, I was able to overcome my fear of public speaking.
One key takeaway I would like to share with any aspiring management professional is the importance of individual accountability. Once one learns to take ownership of their work, any management course becomes significantly more manageable.
Overall, this journey has taught me the value of leadership, empathy, and the importance of maintaining a calm demeanour when things do not go your way.