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Engineer to MBA: IIM Kozhikode Interview Tale

From Engineer to MBA: A Grilling Yet Gracious IIM Kozhikode Interview Experience

Candidate Profile

  • Background: Engineer with a degree in Electronics Engineering
  • Work Experience: 1 year as a Systems Engineer at a multinational IT firm; left job to prepare for higher studies
  • Academics:
    • 10th Grade: 94%
    • 12th Grade: 95%
    • Undergraduate CGPA: 8.7

Interview Panel & Setup

  • Institute: IIM Kozhikode
  • Date & Time: 21st March, 10:18 AM – 10:28 AM (10 minutes)
  • Panel: Panel 5 – 2 Female Professors (F1, F2)
  • Mode: Virtual Interview

Interview Questions & Insights

1. Icebreaker & Motivation Questions

🔵 F1: Introduce yourself briefly—we have your profile, so tell us something apart from that.

📌 Tip: Use this opportunity to highlight aspects beyond academics—hobbies, achievements, volunteering, or unique life experiences.

🔵 F1: Why did you leave your job?

📌 Tip: Frame it positively—link it to focused preparation for career goals or desire to explore broader opportunities through an MBA.

🔵 F1: Why MBA and not continue in engineering?

📌 Tip: Connect your technical background with business aspirations—how you want to shift from execution to decision-making roles.

🔵 F1: What do you think an MBA is?

📌 Tip: Define MBA as a platform for learning management, leadership, and strategic thinking; avoid textbook definitions—speak from your perspective.

🔵 F1: What are some courses or subjects taught in an MBA?

📌 Tip: Be prepared to name key subjects (e.g., Marketing, Finance, Strategy, Operations, HR) and explain briefly what they cover.

2. General Awareness & State-Specific Questions

🔵 F1: Name 5 social reformers from your state, their field of work, and active time period.

📌 Tip: Research key figures from your home state—know their contributions, causes, and historical context.

🔵 F1: Name 5 contemporary poets from your state and some of their works.

📌 Tip: Don’t overlook literary figures—check state literary awards, prominent modern writers, and their notable poems.

3. General Knowledge & Business Awareness

🔵 F2: Name 5 female entrepreneurs.

📌 Tip: Be ready with names across industries (e.g., Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Falguni Nayar, Vandana Luthra, Richa Kar, Upasana Taku) and a line about their businesses.

🔵 F2: Is there a Deputy Prime Minister in India?

📌 Tip: Stay updated with current political structure—always fact-check official positions.

🔵 F2: Name 5 countries and their currencies.

📌 Tip: Common examples include USA–Dollar, UK–Pound, Japan–Yen, China–Yuan, Russia–Ruble. Include diverse regions if possible.

4. Closing the Interview

🔵 F2: Do you have any questions for us?

📌 Tip: Always ask something insightful—about curriculum, culture, specialization opportunities, or alumni engagement.

🔵 F1: Nice talking to you. You can log off.

📌 Tip: End politely with a thank you and a smile.

Candidate Reflection

“The interview was structured yet relaxed. While they tried to test my composure by probing deeper or questioning my answers, it never felt hostile. The panel was respectful and made the experience pleasant.”

Key Takeaways for Future Aspirants

  • ✅ Be prepared for state-specific GK and cultural questions—especially about notable personalities.
  • ✅ Revise political and economic basics (current ministers, currency, political roles).
  • ✅ Expect them to cross-check or challenge your answers—stay calm and confident.
  • ✅ Know what an MBA offers beyond just degree—think of skills, exposure, networks.
  • ✅ Always keep a thoughtful question ready to ask the panel.
📢 Disclaimer: Real Stories, Modified for Privacy
The above interview experience is based on real candidate interactions collected from various sources. To ensure privacy, some details such as location, industry specifics, and numerical figures have been altered. However, the core questions and insights remain authentic. These stories are intended for educational purposes and do not claim to represent official views of any institution. Any resemblance to actual individuals is purely coincidental.
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