‘Apeejay gave me the knowledge, exposure, and confidence to begin my corporate journey’

Securing a placement is a significant milestone in every management student’s journey, reflecting years of hard work, learning, and perseverance. Ushna Dwivedi, from the batch of 2026 of Apeejay School of Management (ASM), specialised in Human Resources and Marketing and recently secured a position as an HR Executive at Unimrkt Research. In this interview, she shares her placement journey, the support she received from faculty members, and the lessons she learned along the way. Read edited excerpts:

 Congratulations on your placement at Unimrkt Research. Could you tell us a little about yourself and your journey at ASM?

Thank you. I am a student from the Batch of 2026 and pursued Human Resources and Marketing as my specialisations at Apeejay School of Management. My journey at ASM has been both enriching and transformative. The institution provided me with the academic foundation, practical exposure, and confidence required to step into the corporate world.

How did ASM and the faculty members help you prepare for this journey?

The teachers at ASM have been extremely supportive and patient throughout my academic journey. They played a crucial role in strengthening my foundational concepts and ensuring that I understood both the basic and advanced aspects of the subjects. What I appreciated most was their willingness to guide students individually and address doubts without hesitation. Their constant encouragement and mentorship helped me build confidence in my knowledge and abilities.

How did you prepare for the placement process?

Preparation for placements requires consistent effort and practice. One of the most effective methods for me was participating in mock interviews and interview simulations. ASM created several opportunities and platforms where students could experience real interview scenarios. These sessions helped me understand the expectations of recruiters, improve my communication skills, and overcome nervousness. Regular practice and feedback played a significant role in my preparation.

According to you, what skills are important to crack placement rounds?

I believe patience is one of the most important qualities during the placement process. Students should be honest with themselves about their strengths and areas that need improvement. Self-awareness helps in continuous learning and growth. Along with that, hard work and consistency are essential. Success does not happen overnight; it comes from sustained effort and the willingness to keep improving every day.

What are your future aspirations?

My aspirations go beyond professional growth. Of course, I want to grow and excel as an HR professional, but I also aspire to become a better human being. I believe personal development and professional success should go hand in hand. I look forward to learning from every experience, contributing positively to my organisation, and continuously evolving both personally and professionally.

Any message for students preparing for placements?

Stay focused, trust the process, and never stop learning. Be patient with your progress and make the most of every opportunity to practice and improve. With dedication, hard work, and the right guidance, success will follow.