Soham Dutta, a graduate of BITS Pilani (Hyderabad, ‘12) with a degree in Computer Science, has an illustrious journey marked by multifaceted experiences. While at BITS, he actively contributed to various clubs and departments. His internship at the Super Computer Education and Research Center at IISc Bangalore led to development a statistical engine for recognizing Catch-all segments using advanced technologies like machine learning and deep neural networks. Following this, while interning at Samsung, Soham co-authored a technical paper on Natural Language Processing, earning a nomination for the esteemed Samsung Best Paper Competition. Transitioning to Morgan Stanley, he led teams in Wealth Management, earning recognition as the youngest team lead in the division. Pursuing further academic excellence, Soham completed a post-graduate program at IIM Ahmedabad, actively participating in clubs and committees. Now, he applies his diverse skill set as a consultant at Bain & Company, contributing to impactful solutions for clients worldwide.

Can you share with us how your BITS experience contributed to shaping the person you are today?

In ninth grade, an article in the Economic Times caught my eye, proclaiming BITS Pilani as the top college in India for fostering personality development. Fast forward to my admission into BITS, I aimed to make that article as accurate as possible. So, I eagerly joined various clubs and departments to explore my interests and satisfy my curiosity. However, despite my enthusiasm, I struggled to maintain a high GPA during my first year, but I managed to graduate with a respectable GPA, which I’m still reaping the benefits of to this day. It wasn't the smooth journey I had envisioned, but I’m grateful for all the learnings and lessons!

Can you share with us how your internship experiences complemented your CS degree?

My internship experiences (PS-1, RI, and PS-2) were diverse and exciting. For my PS-1, working in an early-stage startup, Examify, I was thrust into a world of learning beyond the classroom, gaining insights I never could have imagined. At IISc, delving into research, I immersed myself in advanced computing, enriching my understanding of my CS degree. I was privileged to delve into Deep Learning and Natural Language Processing at Samsung Research, even co-authoring a technical paper nominated for the Samsung Best Paper Competition. These experiences didn't just complement my Computer Science degree; they made it grand!

What influenced your decision to pursue further studies at IIM Ahmedabad instead of the Indian School of Business?

Both ISB and IIM Ahmedabad are renowned institutions with unique advantages. However, I believe in maximizing opportunities and pushing my boundaries. While ISB presented a tempting option, my drive for the conviction that if I had the potential and willingness to put in the effort, aiming for IIM Ahmedabad was a worthwhile endeavor. IIM A also offers a dual degree where I could roam around and explore Europe. Both options were equally good and just as tempting as the other, but weighing the pros and cons, I preferred IIM A over ISB.

 How did you achieve such remarkable milestones relatively quickly?

Every accomplishment outlined in my CV has been the culmination of countless hours of dedication and hard work. It's essential to recognize that success doesn't happen overnight; it's the product of persistent effort and resilience. Along the way, I've encountered setbacks and failures, but rather than letting them discourage me, I've used them as learning opportunities to propel myself forward. Through unwavering commitment and determination, I've strived to make each achievement a testament to my passion and perseverance.

How has your education at BITS Pilani and IIM Ahmedabad contributed to your role at Bain & Company?

My education journey at BITS Pilani and IIM Ahmedabad has been instrumental in shaping my approach to problem-solving and leadership, both essential in my role at Bain & Company. At BITS, I honed my technical skills and learned the importance of collaboration through my involvement in various societies and activities. This foundation equipped me with a solid understanding of technology and teamwork, which I continue to leverage in my consulting projects. Additionally, my time at IIM Ahmedabad further refined my analytical and strategic thinking abilities, preparing me to tackle complex business challenges with confidence and agility.

Could you elaborate on your responsibilities as a consultant?

As a consultant at Bain & Company, my responsibilities revolve around collaborating with clients to identify opportunities for growth and improvement. I work closely with cross-functional teams to analyze data, develop insights, and formulate actionable recommendations tailored to each client's unique needs. Whether optimizing operational processes, crafting market entry strategies, or driving organizational change, I focus on delivering impactful solutions that drive value for our clients and help them achieve their business objectives.

What advice would you give the current BITS students trying to figure it out?

Strive for a balance between academics and extracurricular activities. A robust support system and determination to navigate challenging times are essential. Remember, don't underestimate the importance of academics; your academic excellence and achievements will always be valuable. And finally, make sure to make the most of your time at BITS - these four years should be the best years of your life.