Pursuing MBA in a top B-school is a dream for many aspirants. However, many aspirants prefer to do MBA after taking a gap to gain experience, develop skills, or explore new interests. And Some of the students will take a gap for CAT preparation which is not advisable. Apart from CAT preparation, doing something in the gap before MBA will help you in many ways. In this article, we will discuss what to do in a gap year before MBA and the benefits of taking a gap year before an MBA.
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What Can Make More Beneficial To Do In A Gap Year Before MBA?
Gain Work Experience
Many MBA aspirants prefer to do a gap year before an MBA to gain work experience. This can help you build skills and knowledge in your chosen field. Doing a job will give you a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities you may encounter in your career. Even though prior work experience will help you at the time of IIM admissions, there will be some weightage for your work experience during the selection process at top MBA institutes. So consider seeking out internships or entry-level positions in the industry that interest you, or try to look for opportunities to work with startups or small businesses.
Pursue a passion
One can utilize the gap year before MBA to pursue their passion or interest that one may not have time for during your undergraduation or while working. This could include many aspects, such as an innovative project, volunteering for a cause you care about, sports, arts, etc.
Develop New Skills
Developing new skills will always benefit your future career. Also, this is acceptable during IIM Selections. This could include taking courses in some areas of your interest, such as finance, marketing, Entrepreneurship, etc., or you can learn a new language. Also, you can develop some technical skills such as coding, data analysis, etc.
Network Building
Building relationships with teh professionals in your industry can be invaluable. This may help you find job opportunities and gain insights into different career paths. One can also attend network events, reach out to alumni of your undergraduate institution or MBA program, or join professional organizations in your field.
Travelling/Exploring
Travelling can be an enriching and eye-opening experience. It can help you develop a global perspective that can be very valuable in your career. You can find many opportunities while travelling, such as volunteering or working abroad or simply taking the time to explore different cultures and gain new perspectives. One can also study or work in other countries, which can provide valuable insights into different business practices and management styles.
Social Works
Doing some social work, such as volunteering and working with NGOs, is also one of the best ways to spend the year. These types of activities will give you a lot of value for your resume during the IIM selection process.
Benefits Of Taking A Gap Year Before MBA
- You will have time to pursue your passion.
- You can get opportunities for real-time job experience
- You can experience the actual life after graduation
- Financial Preparation
- You can learn how to be more independent
- You will perform better in your MBA
- You can build your network
- Your resume value will increase by adding the skills that you gained.
Can I Take A Gap For Only CAT Preparation Before My MBA?
No, It is not advisable to take a gap solely for CAT preparation before joining an MBA. Even during the MBA admission process, the top b-schools will not accept this, as many students got a good percentile in CAT even though they working. The interviewers expect multi-tasking skills from the students. Instead of that, you need to justify your gap by doing a job, pursuing your passion, gaining new skills, doing some social work, etc. You can do any of these activities along with your CAT preparation.
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