My global career journey started with SPJIMR GMP

Charishma Puli, SPJIMR (GMP batch 14) – Brandeis (2021-22)

Choosing between various management courses can be a difficult decision to make, and sometimes it is as clear as mud. But when I came across the Global Management Programme (GMP) at SPJIMR, I knew that it wasn’t just another postgraduate programme.

The most impressive part for me was knowing about the strong partnerships it has forged with various international business schools, unlike anything else. The flexibility and the diversity it offered with the various international courses and schools are the hallmark of SPJIMR GMP that separates it from the rest for me.

I chose the GMP route

Choosing the Global Management Programme (GMP) came as a natural decision to me, as I wanted relevant global exposure to align with my STEM goals. The decision to choose Brandeis University as a partner school was because I wanted to specialise in business with a focus on analytics. The STEM designation not only helped me to align with my career goals but also provided a three-year work visa and helped me find a suitable work profile to get H1B sponsorship.

The other reason was the credibility and brand name that SPJIMR carries in the job market, and if I ever wanted to return to India, the brand would help open new doors across various industries. So, the decision brought me the best of both worlds. Firstly, the global exposure and the local Indian relevance. It served as a launchpad for me, who wanted to build an international career.

A sprint that rewired my thinking

In six months, I went through an academic recalibration that prepared me for the later international stage at the partner school. The aspects that stood out to me are:

Strong academic foundation: At SPJIMR, I found the curriculum to be designed in a manner that prepared me for real-world business scenarios.

Diverse peer learning: One of the most important aspects was learning with a diverse set of peers from various professional and cultural backgrounds.

Collaborative learning: I learnt to adapt, communicate, and collaborate, which helped my experience at my partner, The Brandeis Business School, and further.

Real-world readiness: The programme boosted my self-confidence, and whether it was networking or analytics coursework, GMP gave me an edge to stay ahead in every aspect.

Brandeis: The space to build and thrive

After my 6-month session at SPJIMR, I went to Brandeis as my partner school. It is nestled in one of the major educational hubs in the USA, surrounded by several top-tier institutions, which made networking easier for me.

The best part about Brandeis is the academic flexibility it provides, and that helped me tailor my learning by taking courses at different schools within Brandeis, like the Heller School, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS), and the International Business School.

I then opted for an entrepreneurial course at Brandeis, where they have various clubs and initiatives that support business ideas and pitches. If they see potential, you may also receive funding.

The school offers excellent funding opportunities, valuable international academic connections, and a place that truly supports both academic and personal growth.

Alumni network: A secret weapon that has your back

One of the most underrated and valuable aspects of the SPJIMR GMP journey is the alumni network.

When I was transitioning to the partner school abroad, the alumni became a guiding light in my academic journey. They supported me from the very beginning, especially during the overwhelming early weeks. From house hunting to documentation, they offered valuable insights into campus life, helping it feel like a home away from home.

Advice and reflections for future GMP participants

At SPJIMR, I found myself in a nurturing environment where there was always someone guiding me. This support helped me make the transition to global education smoothly, and through this process, I have learnt a few lessons that I’d like to share.

Be intentional with your choices
Choosing subjects and on-campus activities can shape your GPA, and quality beats quantity.

Start networking as early as possible
Don’t wait for job-hunting season to build your network and connect with alumni, and attend career events, as they lead to valuable mentorship.

Use LinkedIn smartly
LinkedIn is a powerful tool if it is used properly; building relationships is far more important than going straight into job requests.

Choose jobs that add value
When you choose part-time roles, try to look for roles that add value in terms of learning and leadership.

These experiences can help enhance your skills and also reflect initiative, leadership, and strategic thinking, which are some qualities that employers value globally.

I have felt that in the GMP journey, SPJIMR gives you a solid foundation, and the partner school abroad gives you the stage to showcase your talents. Use the opportunity to grow, explore, and make every choice that will help you towards your goals.

Memories that stay with me

Your time at SPJIMR GMP will end sooner rather than later, and you need to make the most out of it. Unfortunately, my batch experienced the programme during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we interacted more in the online mode. Despite that, the Mumbai campus at SPJIMR is always filled with vibrant energy. The partner school, Brandeis University, also celebrates festivals like Holi and Diwali jubilantly. The friendships I built and the little joys along the way are moments I will forever cherish from my GMP journey.