‘This school laid a strong foundation for my career’

She graduated from Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg in 2015 and at present works as a Product Manager with American Express in Gurugram. Meet Vidushi Gupta. Her life is a vibrant tapestry of passions associated with creativity and her physical fitness through dance, a cherished form of artistry and activity. Her wanderlust drives her to explore new destinations and immerse herself in the rich tapestry of global cultures. 

In a candid conversation, she talked about her interests and passions!

Tell us about yourself.  

I am a very simple, happy-go-lucky girl. I am a Product Manager at American Express. I oversee the third-party data platform, which is essential for decision-making in our consumer applications. Beyond my professional endeavours, I have a deep passion for dance, not only as a form of expression but also as a means to stay physically active. Traveling is another cherished interest of mine; I love exploring new destinations and immersing myself in diverse cultures. Recently, I’ve been captivated by Japanese cuisine and enjoy discovering its flavours whenever I get the chance.

 Can you briefly describe your career journey from graduation to your current role?

I graduated from Punjab Engineering College in 2019 and started as a Technology Analyst at Deloitte, focusing on GST Tax Filing, E-Way Billing, and E-Invoicing products. After 18 months, I joined American Express, in 2021, where I have been involved in Data Management and Fraud products. 

Highlight significant achievements or projects in your professional career.

I am so grateful to share that I have been awarded as SVP Award in Q3 2022. This is awarded to only 6% of employees in a quarter for outstanding performance. Post this, I got promoted to senior associate in 2023. I also achieved the Employee Excellence Award in Q2 2023 – which is awarded to only 4% of employees for innovative design

How has the school helped you develop good skills?

Apeejay School played a crucial role in shaping my future and laying a strong foundation for my career. The emphasis on co-curricular activities significantly boosted my confidence, communication, and presentation skills. Serving as House Captain and Vice-head Girl in primary school gave me valuable leadership experience, enabling me to lead confidently and take initiative in my professional life.

Participating in projects like NASA improved my research skills and provided a platform to present my work internationally. The focus on teamwork and problem-solving during group projects honed my collaboration and critical thinking abilities. These experiences prepared me to tackle complex challenges in the corporate world. Overall, Apeejay School equipped me with essential knowledge and fostered a mindset of continuous learning and growth, which continues to drive my professional development today. 

 A fond memory from your school days.

 One standout memory from my time at Apeejay School was working on the NASA project. With 11 other students, we dedicated countless hours to our space settlement project, Numenaro, ultimately securing second place internationally. The highlight was presenting our project at a NASA conference in Washington DC, a dream come true and an unforgettable, lifelong experience.

How do you manage work-life balance in your demanding role?

 Prioritisation: I focus on high-impact activities by prioritising tasks based on urgency and importance, which helps manage my workload and reduce stress.

Setting Boundaries: I maintain clear boundaries between work and personal time by setting specific work hours, avoiding emails during off hours, and dedicating time to hobbies and relaxation.

Communication: Effective communication with colleagues and supervisors is essential. I proactively share my availability, deadlines, and any challenges to manage expectations and minimize last-minute stress.

What advice would you give to current students aspiring to enter the field of product management?

There is not just one but many aspects one must keep in mind. 

• Gain Practical Experience: Seek internships, co-op programmes, or entry-level roles that provide hands-on experience in product management or related fields.
• Stay Curious and Updated: The tech industry evolves quickly, so stay curious about emerging technologies, industry trends, and market dynamics.
• Develop Soft Skills: Product management demands strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities. Focus on enhancing your collaboration with diverse teams, stakeholder management, and adaptability to changing priorities.

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