XISS Ranchi: How it feels.

XISS Ranchi: How it feels.

'It is the experiences which you know will stick to you forever that define the person you are bound to be.' 

by Ms. Anoushka Kumar
Department of Human Resource Management (2017-2019)

I still remember how nervous and excited I was as I set out for my journey from college in the small town of Tuljapur to Mumbai to give my interview for admission in the Human Resource Management course of Xavier's Institute of Social Service. I had already made up my mind that this was the one and only course I wanted to pursue at master's level and though I had already given interviews and been selected in a number of colleges, this was one of my top two colleges. The reason behind this was that my objective at the end of two years was not only to get into a top-ranked organization which would help me earn well and swiftly climb up the corporate ladder. I also wanted to acquire the skills which would help me understand the people I work with and serve them to the best of my ability. Coming from a social science background, I knew what apathy is caused to people when they could not even meet their basic needs despite working to the best of their ability. XISS is the only institute which offered me a chance to practice both without compromising on either. The short introduction session we had with the HODs of all departments and two of the alumni before our interview and group discussion only helped in further strengthening my belief in the Institute as one which truly does create professionals with a difference. 

Another factor which makes XISS special is the high level of discipline imparted here. It is not only focused on giving the students an understanding of the management theories but, in preparing them for life out there, be it professional or personal. So everything is taken into account-from the way you dress and communicate (both verbal and non-verbal communication) to your sleeping habits and the manner you conduct yourself in the hostel. Though it may seem a bit tedious initially, eventually you will accept the grill as a way of life. And fear not, your seniors (both present and alumnus) and professors are always open to any questions you may have and always have an abundance of advice to give!

The professors try to make the classes as interactive as possible by asking students to explain concepts with the help of examples at regular intervals of the teaching sessions. In addition, besides sharing their own experiences to make the subject matter more clear, they also encourage students from different backgrounds to give their own relevant examples related to what is being taught in class so as to have a healthy discussion and help boost both their understanding and confidence. Again, in the classroom the focus is not only on theoretical teaching but on an overall development. So there are a whole range of activities to improve communication skills as well. These include debates, presentations, speeches (both extempore and with preparations) and group discussions.

There are also myriad opportunities for practical exposure in order to give the students a true sense of what this field consists of. Two of the main ones are the Social Service Field Work and Summer Internship Program. In the former, students are divided into seven groups and allotted different centres wherein they have to engage with students who are slightly less advantaged in some way or the other. This helps in building of the quality of compassion. The summer internship program, on the other hand is an opportunity to associate with an organization and do an empirical study in the topic of one’s choice. In addition to this, there are also industrial field visits in three main cities of Mumbai, Bangalore and Delhi.

Talents besides those related to the field are also given full recognition here. There are auditions for everything from singing to ramp walk (and be-ware our professors are not only experts in the managerial fields; they have a host of hidden talents which helps them identify a star in the crowd). And once you’re in, you’re there for the long haul. There will be no dearth of events for you to showcase your talent so you better know how to balance your academics and ECAs before choosing the club of your choice!

Last but definitely not the least, Ranchi is a beautiful city with amazing weather (truly a heaven for those who enjoy lots of rains) and a whole lot of scenic places to visit whenever you get time out from everything mentioned above.

by Ms. Anoushka Kumar

Department of Human Resource Management (2017-2019)

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