The BIMTECH Interview: A Candid Student Experience
Candidate Profile
- Background: Commerce graduate with a keen interest in finance and policy
- Academics:
- 10th Grade: 8 CGPA
- 12th Grade: 9 CGPA
- Undergraduate CGPA: 7
- CAT Percentile: 78
Interview Panel
- Panel Composition: 2 Interviewers (1 Male, 1 Female)
- Date: 31st January 2024
Interview Questions & Candidate’s Approach
Extempore Round
- Topic: Fast fashion is having adverse effects on the environment; the government should levy more taxes.
📌 Tip: When given an extempore topic, structure your response logically:
1️⃣ Introduction – Define fast fashion and its rise in consumer culture.
2️⃣ Arguments – Discuss its environmental impact (waste generation, water pollution, carbon emissions).
3️⃣ Counterview & Conclusion – While taxation may reduce consumption, alternatives like sustainable fashion and corporate responsibility should also be explored.
1️⃣ Introduction – Define fast fashion and its rise in consumer culture.
2️⃣ Arguments – Discuss its environmental impact (waste generation, water pollution, carbon emissions).
3️⃣ Counterview & Conclusion – While taxation may reduce consumption, alternatives like sustainable fashion and corporate responsibility should also be explored.
Icebreaker & General Questions
🔵 Panelist (F): Tell me about yourself.
📌 Tip: Keep it structured—highlight academics, work experience (if any), interests, and career aspirations. Avoid generic responses.
🔵 Panelist (F): What is the difference between a Not-for-Profit organization and an NGO?
📌 Tip: Explain that Not-for-Profit organizations reinvest surplus funds for operations, while NGOs have broader social missions and often rely on donations/grants. Give examples like charitable trusts vs. international NGOs.
🔵 Panelist (F): What are your hobbies? Name a storybook you have read recently.
📌 Tip: If you mention reading, be ready to discuss a book in depth—plot, key takeaways, and why you liked it. If it aligns with your field (e.g., a finance-related book), even better.
🔵 Panelist (F): Your CAT percentile is on the lower side. Any reasons?
📌 Tip: Acknowledge it, but pivot to your strengths. Highlight academic consistency, subject expertise, or relevant experience that makes you a strong MBA candidate despite the percentile.
🔵 Panelist (F): Do you read newspapers? Tell me something about the budget.
📌 Tip: Stay updated with key takeaways from the latest budget—taxation changes, sectoral allocations, fiscal deficit targets, and economic implications.
Technical & Analytical Questions
🔵 Panelist (M): Asked questions related to graduation subjects.
📌 Tip: Expect fundamental questions from your coursework. Brush up on core subjects like accounting, finance, or economics if you’re from a commerce background.
🔵 Panelist (M): Any significant differences in the current budget compared to the previous one?
📌 Tip: Compare key metrics—GDP growth estimates, tax reforms, subsidies, and policy shifts. If possible, relate them to business/industry impact.
Key Takeaways for Aspirants
- ✅ Extempore topics test quick thinking—structure your thoughts clearly.
- ✅ Know your academic fundamentals—especially if you don’t have work experience.
- ✅ Stay updated with current affairs and the budget—MBA panels often check financial awareness.
- ✅ If your CAT score is low, redirect the focus—talk about strengths that compensate for it.
- ✅ Be prepared to discuss a book or hobby in detail—interviewers want depth, not just a mention.
📢 Disclaimer: This interview experience is based on real candidate interactions. Some details, including location and specifics, have been altered for privacy while maintaining authenticity. This content is for educational purposes and does not represent official views of any institution.
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