From lockdown to normalcy, stories of belief & purpose mark IIM-I convocation

Indore: The Indian Institute of Management, Indore (IIM-I) held its convocation ceremony on Saturday, celebrating a batch of graduates who began their academic journey during the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. This event was not just a graduation; it was a testament to resilience, belief, and purpose.

Journeys of Resilience

For many graduates, their journey started under the shadow of lockdowns and uncertainty. Srishti Kumari, a student from Patna, exemplifies this narrative. When she joined IIM-I in 2021, her education was conducted entirely online. The world outside was filled with fear, and her family faced skepticism about her decision to pursue higher education during such tumultuous times.

A Father’s Belief

Srishti’s father, Shambhu Nath Keshri, owned a small chemist shop and held onto a quiet belief in his daughter’s potential. Despite doubts from relatives about sending their daughter far away for education during a pandemic, her parents chose to support her dreams. Years later, this decision proved transformative. Srishti became the first in her family to secure a corporate job with a Chennai-based firm, earning a package significantly higher than most of her peers.

“People said many things, but I always had faith in my daughter. Today, those same people are calling to congratulate us. My daughter has proved that if given the opportunity, girls are second to none,” said Shambhu, his voice filled with pride and vindication.

Emotional Reflections

For Srishti, the journey was not just academic; it was deeply emotional. “We started in isolation. There was fear, uncertainty, and no real sense of campus life in the beginning. To stand here today, in front of everyone, feels like completing something much bigger than a degree,” she expressed.

Purpose Beyond Self

While Srishti’s story centered on belief, Kishan’s journey from Gandhinagar, Gujarat, was driven by a sense of purpose. Previously an academic associate at the Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, Kishan experienced a pivotal moment during a bus journey. He witnessed a group of farmers discussing their struggles with crop losses and market access, which left a lasting impression on him.

A Shift in Direction

Moved by their plight, Kishan made the courageous decision to leave his stable job and pursue research in agriculture. His focus shifted to understanding the challenges faced by silk and cocoa farmers. “I felt I could not just move on after seeing that. I wanted to understand their problems and contribute in whatever way I could. This is just the beginning. I want to expand this work and collaborate with state governments to create better systems for farmers,” he stated.

A New Generation of Graduates

Kishan’s story reflects a growing trend among young graduates who seek to make a difference beyond traditional career paths. Their motivations are increasingly driven by empathy and a desire to contribute positively to society.

Shared Experiences

Priya Shah from Mumbai encapsulated the collective sentiment of her graduating class. “We started our journey sitting at home, not knowing when things would return to normal. Today, standing here with everyone, it feels like we have lived through something that has changed us for life,” she remarked, highlighting the emotional weight of the day.

Conclusion

The convocation ceremony at IIM-I was more than a formal event; it was a celebration of resilience, belief, and purpose. Graduates like Srishti and Kishan are not just stepping into the corporate world; they are embarking on journeys that reflect their values and aspirations. Their stories serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, determination and purpose can lead to remarkable outcomes.

Note: This article highlights the inspiring stories of graduates from IIM-I who navigated their academic journeys during the pandemic, showcasing their resilience and commitment to making a difference in the world.