A Comprehensive Analysis of an FMS or TISS Interview Experience: Key Insights and Preparation Tips

For many applicants aspiring to secure admission into prestigious institutions like FMS (Faculty of Management Studies) or TISS (Tata Institute of Social Sciences), the interview process can be both daunting and exhilarating. This article provides a detailed account of an individual's experience, highlighting the interview process, the questions asked, and valuable takeaways for future applicants.

Background and Context

The applicant in question had an overall CGPA of 9 with honors in Sociology, along with an impressive CAT score of 99.60. The interview took place at FMS in Delhi on April 18th, 2022, after an extensive journey from Kolkata. The candidate's journey involved verifying personal documents and a 2-hour wait before the actual interview began. This article will delve into the various aspects of the interview experience and provide insights into the expectations and preparation required for such interviews.

The Interview Process

The interview was conducted offline at the FMS campus, with two panelists—female interviewers F and N—and the candidate, P. The first step involved document verification, followed by a rather nerve-wracking wait. However, the candidate's experience illustrates key points on what to expect during this phase and how to manage the pre-interview anxiety.

Documentation and Pre-Interview Phases

Upon entering the interview room, the candidate was greeted and asked to introduce themselves. This introduction lays the foundation for the rest of the interview. Despite the nervousness, the candidate remained calm, which is crucial for a successful interview experience. After the introduction, the interview shifted towards a more formal and structured format.

Exttempore Topic: “City of Chaos”

The first question posed by N was to prepare an extempore speech on a given topic: “City of Chaos.” Being a native of Kolkata, the candidate drew upon their personal experience of visiting Delhi and the contrasting energy levels between the two cities. This personal touch helped in engaging the interview panel but could be improved with more specific and structured content.

Academic and Extracurricular Achievements

The interviewers then delved into the candidate's academic and extracurricular achievements. Questions were posed on their experience as a basketball player and their involvement in Model United Nations (MUN). Here, the candidate could have provided more detailed and structured answers, particularly when discussing the relevance of the UN in the contemporary world. Specific points such as the differing rankings of India in men's and women's basketball could have added value to the response.

Personal and Professional Ambitions

The discussion then moved to personal ambitions, with the interviewer asking about the candidate's post-MBA career aspirations. The candidate, however, stumbled in this area, mentioning BCG as a target organization without a well-thought-out plan. It is crucial to research and prepare detailed responses to such questions to showcase genuine interest and preparedness. Lack of awareness about the specific details of BCG’s business model also raised doubts about the candidate's knowledge and preparation.

Reading Habits and Personal Interests

To conclude, the interviewers asked about the candidate's reading habits and favorite books. The candidate mentioned a preference for fiction and her love for the Harry Potter series, which led to a discussion on the themes of perseverance and determination. While this provided a personal touch, a more structured response that links these themes to business and professional goals would have been beneficial.

Key Takeaways for Future Applicants

Preparation: Thorough preparation is key. Research the institution's culture, values, and academic programs. Prepare answers for common interview questions, including extempore topics and questions about professional aspirations and extracurricular activities.

Confidence: Stay calm and confident. Practice introducing yourself and structuring your thoughts. Speaking clearly and maintaining eye contact can significantly improve your performance.

Personalization: Use personal anecdotes and experiences to illustrate your points. This can make your responses more engaging and memorable.

Research:* Conduct extensive research on the organizations you are interested in, especially regarding their business models, leaders, and recent initiatives. This shows genuine interest and commitment.

Converting the Experience

Despite the initial nervousness, the candidate managed to secure a position in the waitlist and eventually got converted in the 2nd waitlist. This experience underlines the importance of perseverance and the value of continuous improvement. By learning from this experience, future applicants can enhance their interview skills and increase their chances of success.

By strategically preparing for each aspect of the interview and maintaining a positive mindset, aspiring students can navigate the challenging journey of securing a place in prestigious programs like FMS or TISS. Remember, each experience is an opportunity to learn and grow.