Introduction
I was born and brought up in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. In my 10+2, I chose the science stream. For my graduation and then I pursued Instrument and Control Engineering. By the time I completed my graduation, I had developed a keen interest in pursuing MBA and I prepared for my CAT exams. I got admitted to Pandit Deendayal Energy University, where I studied Energy and Infrastructure. Fortunately, I got the chance to visit Germany in my 3rd year of Engineering through an International Exchange Programme where I studied Project Management.
Tell us about your work at IOCL
In IOCL, I was assigned a unique project. My position was Marketing and Research Analyst. I was assigned to do research particular to my project, and after 8 weeks, I gave a presentation where I showcased my recommendations and analysis. The target of my project was to increase the sales of NDNE (non-domestic and non-essential) products.
How did you get this internship?
I got into IOCL through my college Placement Cell. First of all, they asked for a resume, after which I got shortlisted. So, I feel that a proper resume is of utmost importance before applying for any internship. The HR round was a one-to-one interview where they asked me about my personality, strengths, weaknesses, etc.
Tell us about your experience of working for a PSU company.
It was great working as an intern at IOCL, as the work culture was highly pleasing. I also got good support from my mentors. I was working as a Marketing and Research Analyst intern, so for my research work, I interacted with several agencies that are under IOCL. It was a splendid learning experience for me. After the end of my internship period, I presented my research and analysis, which was well appreciated.
Why did you opt for an internship in a government organisation?
Several multinational and PSU companies visited my college to provide internships, but I opted for PSU companies like IOCL because I had been aiming for it since the beginning of my management degree. I was keen to know more about the working of the PSU companies because they aligned with the domain I was focusing on making my career in.
What do you think about internships, in general?
Internships are a trailer to your corporate journey. If the trailer is good, it's evident that the journey will be good. We tend to judge a movie by its trailer; the same applies to internships. Internships are the base for the corporate journey. So, I feel that it gives me the confidence to go on with the corporate world. Also, internships should focus on the domain in which you are focusing on. I was interested in Infrastructure and Energy, so I opted for an internship that would enable me to explore more in the sector in which I wanted to work.
What kind of skill set is required to get such an internship?
Firstly, communication skills! Proper communication skills can help you get good exposure during internships. It helped me a lot while interacting with the distributors and the agencies of IOCL. Good presentation skills can also be helpful whenever you are asked to present your work. Also, I think developing leadership skills is of utmost importance as you have to take on many responsibilities and lead while working as an intern.
What are your thoughts on the importance of getting paid for internships?
Stipends should not be the only motivation for doing internships. We should focus more on skill development. During the initial college years, one should focus on gaining skills. Internships will give you an insight into the work culture, so you must opt for it whether you are paid with a stipend or not.
What is your advice for those looking for internships?
When companies visit for final placement, they look for how many internships you have worked on and what your experience was. My advice is that internships are the steps for your career. One must focus on doing internships in one's domain of interest.