Firstly, could you tell us a bit about what you're doing currently?

At present, I’m handling my family business, which is in the packaging industry. It’s something that has been in the family for quite some time. After graduating and exploring a few directions, I eventually decided to take on a more active role in it. I’m primarily involved in overseeing operations to ensure that the business keeps up with modern expectations and demands. Over the years, I've come to understand the various moving parts of running a business - managing people, working with clients, understanding supply chains, and making key financial decisions. It’s been a challenging but extremely rewarding journey so far.

That’s quite a shift from your background in Electrical and Electronics Engineering. How did that transition happen?
Yes, it was a major shift. The field I’m working in today has very little to do with electrical engineering if you look at it technically. However, what people often overlook is how much of our academic background shapes the way we approach problems. During my time at BITS, I learned how to think analytically, how to break down complex problems into manageable parts, and how to make decisions under pressure. These are skills that are essential in any professional setting, including business. While the technical content of my degree may not be directly applicable, the mindset it gave me has proven to be extremely valuable. BITS teaches you how to think independently and take initiative, which is crucial no matter what path you choose.

Were you a part of any clubs or activities during your time at BITS? Did they play a role in your personal or professional growth?
Yes, I used to play cricket quite regularly during my time at BITS. It was something that really helped me maintain balance and manage stress. College life can be hectic with academic pressure, project deadlines, and future planning constantly occupying your mind. Being involved in a sport helped me step away from that chaos and recharge.

Beyond that, sports can teach life lessons that stay with you forever. Cricket, for example, taught me about teamwork, handling pressure, and maintaining composure in both wins and losses. It helped build resilience. I truly believe that any form of extracurricular activity, whether it’s a sport, a club, or a cultural pursuit, gives you an edge in the real world. These experiences open your mind, make you more empathetic, and teach you how to collaborate effectively. These are all essential skills, whether you're in a corporate setting or running your own venture.

From your experience in the professional world, what advice would you give to current BITSians preparing for life after college?
One thing I always emphasize is that we’re now living in a skill-based world. Academic credentials alone don’t guarantee success anymore. What sets people apart is what they can do, the skills they’ve learned, the experiences they’ve had, and how they apply those learnings in the real world. You need to actively work on acquiring relevant, in-demand skills, whether that’s technical tools, communication, leadership, or even niche domain knowledge.

More importantly, strive to be unique. In a world where everyone is running towards the same goals, being different is what gives you a competitive edge. That uniqueness might come from your skillset, your background, your way of thinking, or your willingness to take risks. Employers and clients today look for people who bring something distinctive to the table, someone who can contribute in ways others cannot; that only comes from being intentional about your learning and development.

So, even among your batch mates, have you seen similar shifts into different industries?
 In fact, it’s quite common now. Many of my batch mates who studied Electrical Engineering with me have ended up in software or IT-related roles. It was partly due to the booming opportunities in those sectors and partly because many of them discovered new interests after graduation. Some made the switch because they found more growth or better pay, while others genuinely fell in love with programming or systems design along the way.

Which is perfectly okay. We don’t always get everything figured out during our four years in college. What’s important is your willingness to learn and adapt. The world is evolving rapidly. Being able to shift gears, pick up new knowledge, and pivot your career is a strength. Your degree gives you a foundation, but it’s your adaptability and hunger to learn that will take you forward.

Given how quickly things like AI have taken over the tech landscape, how important do you think it is for students to stay updated with new trends?
It’s essential. The pace at which technology is moving today is unprecedented. When I was in college, topics like AI and machine learning were just starting to get popular. We didn’t have nearly as many resources or use cases as students do today. But look at where we are now: AI is not just a buzzword anymore; it’s transforming industries across the board. If students want to stay relevant, they need to keep an eye on what’s happening around them. Make it a habit to explore new things regularly. That’s how you grow, both professionally and personally. The willingness to evolve is what sets you apart in this fast-paced world.