“Human Resource Management builds character, and it built mine”

Making the leap from campus to corporate is never easy, but for Sonakshi, an alumna of Apeejay School of Management (Batch 2025), the journey was a transformative one. Specialising in Marketing and HRM (Human Resource Management), she recently secured her placement as an MT – Sales at Hero Realty. In this candid conversation, she shares her placement experience, the challenges she pushed through, and how Apeejay shaped an introvert into a confident professional.

Read edited excerpts:

Sonakshi, can you walk us through your placement process at Hero Realty?

The first round was a Group Discussion, but with a twist—each candidate had to speak for two minutes on an allotted topic. I got time management. They even asked me a situational question: What would I prioritise if I had a strict deadline at work and an important family wedding on the same day?

The second round was a panel interview with three members from the management team. It lasted around 7–10 minutes and was quite tough. After about 20 days, I received the call from HR confirming that I was selected as an MT–Sales.

What does your role as MT–Sales involve?

My work is largely networking-based. I receive data from my manager and make daily calls to invite channel partners for site visits. I give presentations, explain the project details, and even conduct show-arounds of our sample flats. It’s a lot of interaction—and I’m still learning every day.

Were you briefed about your role before joining?

Yes. Apeejay gave us a good understanding of industry expectations, and later, the company’s HR conducted a detailed induction session as well.

How did your Marketing and HRM specialisations help you?

Honestly, I’m a very introverted person. Talking to strangers used to scare me. But the course changed me. Marketing pushed me into leadership roles—I even became a Cultural Club Secretary. HRM improved my communication. I’m also a vocalist, but I never performed solo until I gained confidence at Apeejay. All these experiences shaped who I am today.

What kind of support did the faculty and placement cell provide?

Everything—from resume building to mock interviews, GD practice, and interview prep. They literally guided me from scratch.

Being an introvert, what inspired you to choose HRM?

I did an HR internship and loved the work. The faculty made the subject relatable, and the HR Club activities helped me grow flexible, confident, and open. HRM builds character—and it built mine.

Your message to juniors preparing for placements?

Be consistent. I faced many rejections and often felt like giving up. But staying consistent changed everything. If I can do it, you can too.