“Knowledge with action converts adversity into prosperity.” – Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam
An ardent follower of Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam, N Sreeram believes that knowledge combined with hard work can turn all your adversities into opportunities. Despite losing his father at a young age, N Sreeram stood firm to fulfil his dream of starting his own business venture under his late father’s name. To step ahead in this direction, he worked really hard to secure a place at a leading B-school. Furthermore, IDFC First Bank recognised his hard work and determination by lending him suitable financial support just when he needed it the most.
While in conversation with Buddy4Study, he shared his experiences and challenges. This scholar success story has excerpts from the same.
Buddy4Study: Please share your academic background in brief (Class X/XII marks, school name and college name). Also, mention any work experience you had before joining this management programme.
N Sreeram: I completed my high school from NSS Public School Perunthanni with 8.0 CGPA in 2013-15. I completed my higher secondary education from St. Joseph Higher Secondary School, Trivandrum under Directorate of Higher Secondary Education (DHSE) by Kerala Government with 87% marks.
Buddy4Study: Why did you want to pursue an MBA course?
N Sreeram: I dream to start my own business one day, under my late father’s name. And, for establishing and running a business, a certain set of skills are required. I am convinced that MBA is the course which will help me in inculcating those essential skills and prepare me to fulfil my dream successfully.
Buddy4Study: What were the key challenges you faced while pursuing your MBA admission?
N Sreeram: There were a few problems I faced while preparing for the entrance exam. As my mathematical skills are not extraordinary, the quantitative aptitude part of the exam was a bit tricky to get through. I was not able to get any sort of guidance for resolving the same issue. I had to prepare on my own and that too in a short period of time. Preparing myself for the interview and working on my communication and English speaking skills was also a hurdle I had to pass. Another problem was to select a college which will suit best to my needs.
Buddy4Study: What has been your source of inspiration which keeps you going for your studies?
N Sreeram: My ambition to start my own business venture inspires me and also my desire to acquire more knowledge keeps me motivated for my studies.
Buddy4Study: How do you motivate yourself to overcome any challenges?
N Sreeram: Before joining the MBA, I was dealing with serious self-doubts. I was convinced that I have no skills, abilities and knowledge whatsoever to make a successful career. But, a lecture of my idol Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam cleared my doubts and made me realise that every person has skills and abilities. We should strive hard to develop our skills and work constantly to become better.
Buddy4Study: Despite the financial constraints, you decided to pursue an MBA course. How did your parents react when you told them about your ambitions?
N Sreeram: My father passed away when I was young. My mother is my only support who runs a small shop at our house to make ends meet. Though she was thrilled when she came to know about my decision, it was not possible for her to pay the college fee. I decided not to burden her with these expenses and took an educational loan instead. Her blessings are for utmost value to me which keeps me going even today.
Buddy4Study: How did you come to know about the IDFC FIRST Bank MBA Scholarship? What was the process you followed to avail the scholarship?
N Sreeram: I got the information about the scholarship through a newspaper. There was an advertisement about the scholarship which mentioned Buddy4Study. Immediately I got registered and started the application process.
Buddy4Study: Which B-schools did you qualify for?
N Sreeram: I got a good score in MAT, hence I was eligible for most of the colleges who accept MAT scores. I got interview calls from colleges like Alliance University, Institute of Public Enterprise, Christ University, Rajagiri Business School, etc. Finally, I got enrolled at Amrita School of Business.
Buddy4Study: What goals have you set for yourself in the future?
N Sreeram: My short-term goal is to get a job in the finance sector and my long-term aim is to start a business venture. I believe that my short-term plan can make me effective in achieving my long-term goal.
Buddy4Study: What advice would you give to the young ones who face various challenges towards pursuing higher education?
N Sreeram: Facing a challenge is not quite an easy one. Challenges may be physical, mental or external which may become a hindrance for further study. My opinion is to not give up at any stage. If you want to overcome a challenge you must face both its worst and good part. Continuous trying and practising make us more efficient to do a task.
Buddy4Study: How are you going to utilise your scholarship funds?
N Sreeram: This scholarship has come as a big relief and has helped me in managing various expenses related to my education. Due to this scholarship, I won’t be taking any more loans in the future.
Buddy4Study: What are your thoughts on giving back to society, once you start your professional life?
N Sreeram: I believe in these lines said by respectable Dr A.P.J Abdul Kalam –
“Look back and get experience. Look forward and see hope. Look around and find reality. Look within and find yourself.”
These four lines make our life meaningful. I would definitely love to give back to society after starting my professional career.
Despite the ups and downs of life, N Sreeram worked hard on his weaknesses and gathered the strength to follow his dream. Does his story inspire you to pursue your dreams? If yes, you can also find scholarships matching your requirements at Buddy4Study. You may also become an inspiration for others in the future.
