Edition 50

Gul
Asnani
DTU Times interviewed Gul Asnani
Gul Asnani, Computer Engineering, Class of 2020, who
secured a 99.92 percentile in CAT 2019 and received admits for the MBA program
from Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad, Bangalore, & Calcutta. She
also received a placement offer from Google India and a pre-placement offer from
Samsung R&D Bangalore.
How did you simultaneously prepare for the placement season and CAT? What was your thought-
process while deciding these options?
As I got an early PPO, I was lucky enough to be spared from the placement season. It is always
a blessing to get an intern early in the season. The companies which come early give a higher
proportion of PPOs, and also have a higher rate of acceptance of PPOs by students. This is, of
course, the most ideal scenario. There have been times when I had more than one thing to focus
on. Although there were relatively few overlaps, whenever I faced one, I tried to prioritize stuff
and take-on one thing at a time. When you have to focus on multiple things and a number of
uncertainties attached to your daily routine, it is better to plan flexibly and do whatever comes
your way. It was usually not that difficult a task, but it did keep my hands full at times. The
intention behind choosing both fields was a result of a dilemma- I wanted a career in one and also
wanted to keep the other as a backup.
What was the single most valuable habit that you think helped you achieve these laurels?
I worked for everything as much as I could, and judiciously utilise the slightest bit of time.
However, working hard is something everyone does; what’s even more important is having a
positive attitude and a constant belief in oneself– it helps you maintain focus.
What suggestions would you give to juniors who are sitting for internships or placements this
year? What is the best way to practice and how should one formulate his or her plan?
Placement and internship seasons are very unpredictable. Your company tests will test your
knowledge, whereas the overall process of landing up an opportunity during the season will test
your mental strength. Hence, it is important to work on both these skills. Everybody gets what
they deserve sooner or later. One needs to be patient.
Build a strong resume with good quality projects. If you’re worried about your projects, be aware
that you still have time, and talk about the kind of projects you should take up with your seniors.
Your resume should be well worded, properly indented and presented. Try and get it reviewed
by a senior, if possible. It is crucial as your resume speaks volumes about you. Work on the soft
skills that’ll help you speak about what you know. Soft skills include your way of addressing an
interviewer, way of communication, confidence, etc.
Since times are uncertain, try to stay calm and not let the negativity affect your mental health;
try not to overthink about the impact of the crisis on your future. Everyone is in the same boat
as yours, and the uncertainty might go on for long. In such circumstances, building your skills
is all you can do right now, and if you let the crisis play with your mind, you might lose out on
productivity. Stay focussed, stay calm!