Highlights of the Discussion

The panel discussion explored the realities of career planning, emphasising the importance of making informed decisions based on individual interests, long-term goals, and changing professional aspirations. The alumni shared their experiences of pursuing professional qualifications such as Chartered Accountancy alongside employment, highlighting the discipline, commitment, and time management required to balance work and study.

The discussion also offered insights into entry-level corporate roles, workplace expectations, professional responsibilities, and career progression across industries. Alternative pathways, including entrepreneurship, family business management, and higher education, were presented as meaningful options beyond conventional campus placements.

The panelists emphasised the importance of developing communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and professional networks. They also highlighted the value of holistic development through leadership opportunities, extracurricular activities, internships, and research exposure. Experiences of choosing entrepreneurship or higher studies over campus placements encouraged students to consider a wider range of possibilities when planning their careers.

The session further explored opportunities and challenges associated with international education and employment. The speakers discussed the competitive nature of global job markets, the importance of selecting suitable institutions for postgraduate studies, realistic admission timelines for reputed MBA programmes, and the need for a well-considered alternative plan when pursuing education abroad.

Programme Outcomes

The programme provided students with greater clarity on the diverse career pathways available to commerce graduates, spanning corporate employment, professional certifications, entrepreneurship, higher education, and family business leadership. By engaging directly with alumni, participants gained a practical understanding of workplace expectations, early-career challenges, professional growth, and the demands of pursuing additional qualifications alongside employment.

The interaction reinforced the importance of academic achievement complemented by communication skills, analytical ability, leadership, internships, research, and extracurricular involvement. It encouraged students to approach career decisions through self-assessment, careful planning, and an understanding of their long-term aspirations rather than relying solely on conventional placement opportunities.

The programme also created opportunities for students from the 2026, 2027, and 2028 batches to contribute to event organisation and coordination, while providing a platform for the university’s music and photography teams to showcase their talents. The session supported student development and engagement in alignment with the broader objectives of NAAC Criteria 1 (Curricular Aspects), 5 (Student Support and Progression), and 7 (Institutional Values and Best Practices).

Strengthening Alumni–Student Engagement

With its focus on real-world experiences and diverse career journeys, “Life Beyond Textbooks – Choices, Challenges & Growth: Alumni Speak” served as a meaningful platform for interaction between alumni and current students. The programme encouraged networking, mentorship, and the continued involvement of alumni in the university’s academic and co-curricular activities.

By bringing together varied professional experiences and perspectives, the session reinforced the importance of informed career planning, continuous learning, and holistic development. It reflected the Department of Commerce’s commitment to preparing students for a dynamic professional environment while supporting their individual aspirations for growth and success.