I am a fresher who has got an admit from XLRI (BM) and I am waiting for IIMA results. I don't think I will get IIMA. Assuming I don't get IIMA should I join XLRI or attempt CAT next year?
Posted On - May 13, 2021It’s advisable to attempt CAT again next year only if you are confident that your CAT percentile will be much better next year and you will have something in your profile that will make IIM A take you or maybe IIM B.
Once you join a big B-School, you will find that the turmoil is the same everywhere. You will find the glittery life is not what it seems and you will see everyone around you is equally talented and has managed to convert to a top B-School in India. Again, the cat race will begin irrespective of whichever B-school you go for.
In my opinion, rather than taking a drop, it’s better to go for XLRI right away. The job opportunities and exposure offered are at par with IIM Ahmedabad so you don’t have to worry about placements. Your B-School is just a stepping stone in shaping your career and not the sole determining factor. So, your growth in the corporate is solely dependent on your work ethic. Go for IIM Ahmedabad only if you are adamant about the IIM tag.
If you are planning on adding relevant work experience to your profile then taking another year to attempt CAT can be beneficial. If not, then this decision can hurt your case. CAT is also quite unpredictable, so you can’t be certain that you will get into IIM A next year.
Joining XLRI can be a good decision. It is one of the best B-schools in the county. There are people who may argue that IIM A offers better opportunities, which may even be true. However, XLRI is a different kind of brand with an enviable campus experience. As a part of XLRI, you will have access to their extensive alumni base across the industries, sectors, and institutes.
Add up these factors and weigh in your options before making any decision.
If you want to try to get into business school next year, then you might have a job offer in hand. If not, do not think twice about choosing XLRI.
Now, if you have a job offer, consider whether the experience you gain in the job over the next 1 or 2 years will help you with the MBA career you desire. If the two don't align well, consider admission in XLRI. It is a good institute, and you will definitely get benefitted from it.
From a post-MBA placement standpoint, your resume should be strong or else the chances of getting a job might get delayed. Try to attempt CAT until you get your preferred institution because hard work always pays and you will get work experience added to your CV too.
Having said that, do not rush to make a decision, think about it properly. If not, XLRI has already welcomed you, what you would have done with your time. Consider wisely.
