How do you answer, “Why an MBA from IIM-K” Effectively.
I don't think there's a status quo in today's world. Any organization, no matter how established, can be disrupted. Therefore, I want to be associated with an organization that is constantly reinventing itself to remain competitive and stay relevant even 10-20 years down the line. IIM Kozhikode introduced its distance learning program in 2001, unlike other organizations that did so as a reaction to COVID-19. It secured the highest new entrant position this year in the Financial Times ranking, and they are collaborating with Emeritus to create courses on AI-driven decision-making for managers. It has already climbed up to the 3rd position in the NIRF ranking and is consistently making efforts to grow further. I want to be a part of a growing organization, and IIM Kozhikode is one of the best options, especially considering the value it creates for the money students invest.
Secondly, I believe in sustainability and its significance. Therefore, I studied controlled environment agriculture at Wageningen University, the most sustainable university in the world. IIM Kozhikode’s Centre for Climate Studies is a unique initiative that further reinforces my belief that business leaders must be equipped to tackle the complex challenges of sustainability. I think it is important to decouple education from placement, and rebranding the placement cell to CARE was another aspect that tells me IIM Kozhikode understands that a sole focus on placements can hinder overall development. While I understand that jobs are a significant element of an MBA program, I appreciate this effort to prioritize learning as the primary focus.
Background Research:
IIM Kozhikode stands out to me not just for its academic excellence but for its forward-thinking approach to business education. The institute’s global recognition, evidenced by its Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2025, where it was the highest new entrant at the 86th position, speaks volumes about its commitment to excellence. The 242% increase in alumni salaries three years post-graduation is a testament to the tangible impact it creates in shaping future leaders.
What particularly draws me to IIM Kozhikode is its growth-oriented mindset. Long before the world embraced online learning during the pandemic, IIM Kozhikode had already launched its Interactive Distance Learning (IDL) programme in 2001-02. This demonstrates the institute’s proactiveness in identifying trends and adapting ahead of time—a quality I deeply admire. Being part of such an innovative and constantly evolving ecosystem will help me develop a mindset that thrives on reinvention, which I believe is crucial for long-term success in business.
Moreover, IIM Kozhikode’s focus on AI-driven decision-making, particularly through its collaboration with Emeritus, aligns with my interest in leveraging technology for business transformation. As someone with a background in agri-tech and controlled environment agriculture, I understand the power of data-driven insights in optimizing operations and improving efficiency. Learning in an environment that integrates AI into decision-making will prepare me to stay ahead of technological disruptions in any industry I choose to impact.
Another aspect that strongly resonates with me is the institute’s approach to career readiness. The Office of CARE (Corporate Access, Readiness, and Engagement) replacing the student placement committee reflects IIM Kozhikode’s emphasis on holistic career development rather than just placements. This shift signals a commitment to developing future-ready professionals rather than just job seekers—something I truly value as I aim to build a career with long-term impact rather than short-term milestones.
Lastly, sustainability is a cause close to my heart. Through my experiences working on sustainable projects—from greenhouse management to food production optimization—I have seen firsthand how responsible business practices can drive both profitability and environmental impact. IIM Kozhikode’s Centre for Climate Studies is a unique initiative that further reinforces my belief that business leaders must be equipped to tackle the complex challenges of sustainability. The opportunity to be in an institution that prioritizes sustainability at both an academic and operational level aligns deeply with my own values and professional aspirations.
For me, IIM Kozhikode is not just a place to earn an MBA—it is an institution that fosters growth, innovation, and impact. Its forward-thinking curriculum, technological integration, focus on career preparedness, and commitment to sustainability make it the ideal place for me to develop into a business leader who can navigate and shape the evolving corporate landscape.
