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Pol Sci Fresher’s Tough IIM B Interview

IIM Bangalore Interview Experience: How a Political Science Fresher Braved a Grilling Panel

Candidate Profile

  • Background: Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) in Political Science
  • Work Experience: Fresher
  • Academics:
    • CAT Percentile: 99.73
    • 10th Grade: ~94%
    • 12th Grade: ~95%
  • Interview Date: 2nd March 2024
  • Panel Composition: 3 Panelists (2 Male Professors, 1 Female Professor - Alumni)

Written Ability Test (WAT)

Topic: The Supreme Court did not legalize same-sex marriage and passed the responsibility to Parliament and State Legislatures. Share your views.

📌 Tip: For such socio-legal topics, ensure a balanced perspective. Acknowledge constitutional roles while addressing societal implications. Structure your response with an introduction, key arguments, and a conclusion.

Interview Questions & Candidate's Approach

1. Icebreaker & Profile-Related Questions

🔵 P1: You have a unique profile, why do you want to pursue an MBA?

🔵 P1: Did you take any marketing courses during college?

🔵 P1: Why did you choose internships outside your academic domain?

🔵 P1: Name a marketing campaign you really liked.

🔵 P1: Do you know about the P's in marketing?

🔵 P1: Sell yourself using the 7Ps of marketing.

📌 Tip: When asked about your unconventional background, link your diverse experiences to how they offer a fresh perspective in management. For technical terms like the 7Ps, clarity and confidence are key—avoid second-guessing.

2. Handling Challenges as a Fresher

🔵 P3: Won’t you be at a disadvantage compared to peers with work experience?

🔵 P3: How will you cope with subjects where you have no prior knowledge?

🔵 P3: Won’t you feel left out in classroom discussions?

📌 Tip: Address these concerns by emphasizing your adaptability, eagerness to learn, and transferable skills from academics or internships. Show proactiveness in bridging knowledge gaps.

3. General Awareness & Ethical Dilemmas

🔵 P2: Why are companies promoting LGBTQIA+ inclusivity? Isn’t sexuality a private matter?

🔵 P2: Why bring inclusivity to the workplace? Why should companies be vocal instead of silently updating policies?

📌 Tip: For sensitive and opinion-based questions, stay calm and diplomatic. Highlight the business case for diversity—employee morale, brand image, customer alignment, and legal protections.

4. Personal Insights & SOP Grilling

🔵 P2: You quoted Mandela in your SOP—should we fail you so you can rise like a phoenix?

🔵 P2: Who advised you to include a quote in your SOP?

🔵 P2: Why mention Mandela when the SOP should focus on you?

📌 Tip: Be ready to justify every element of your SOP. If quoting someone, clearly tie it to your personal journey and values.

5. Analytical Thinking & Decision-Making

🔵 P1: You mentioned the cancellation of board exams in your SOP. What was the formula used for your marks?

🔵 P1: What formula would you have designed?

🔵 P1: Why is using 60% weightage for 10th boards and 40% for 12th prelims not ideal? Give an objective answer.

📌 Tip: When asked for objective reasoning, avoid subjective explanations. Think in terms of fairness, consistency, and measurable parameters.

6. Quantitative Readiness

🔵 P1: You didn’t study mathematics in graduation. Won’t this hinder your MBA studies?

📌 Tip: Acknowledge the challenge but emphasize your willingness to upskill. Mention any preparatory steps, like online courses or self-study.

7. Candidate’s Turn – Asking Questions

🔵 P2: Do you have any questions for us?

📌 Tip: Always prepare a thoughtful question, even if the interview feels intense. It shows genuine interest and presence of mind.

Key Takeaways for Aspirants

  • ✅ Expect probing questions if you come from a non-traditional background.
  • ✅ Stay calm during ethical debates—there might be no “right” answer.
  • ✅ Know your SOP inside out; be ready to defend every word.
  • ✅ Brush up on basic management concepts like the 7Ps, even as a fresher.
  • ✅ Always prepare one or two intelligent questions 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, academic 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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