Page - 1

All things, living and non-living, continuously strive to reach a state of equilibrium. It is in this state of equilibrium that maximum efficiency can be achieved. And as engineers and potential managers, efficiency is what we covet. And that is precisely what SIOM attempts to
do. Create a pool of up-and-coming Operations managers - strong in their will, yet balanced in their outlook, ready to handle any challenge that comes their way.

The formula to reach that ideal state of balance is embedded in the very structure of the course here. The program is a healthy amalgamation of academics and compulsory non-academic activities like yoga, aerobics and gym.

Since MBA is about doing a lot of things and doing them well without letting the pressure spoil the quality of work, the program here begins with a course in Stress Management! Students are sent on a 14-day sojourn to attend a meditation course called 'Vipassana' - a Buddhist form of meditation. The techniques taught at this course help in building concentration, managing work pressure, and at the same time, maintaining a positive and healthy outlook about one's own self.

A typical day at SIOM begins with an hour of rigorous physical work-out. Indeed, the much needed energy to sustain the day is derived from this one hour. The curriculum is a combination of stimulating group discussions, knowledge-enhancing case studies and theoretical assignments. The classroom sessions are interactive. Students from various engineering disciplines, both with and without work experience, provide the right atmosphere to enhance knowledge sharing and team building.

The mood at the college campus is perennially upbeat. Teamwork is an essential aspect of the learning process here. So, it is common-place to find students in groups engaged in invigorating discussions at the 'Green Turf' - the hub of activities in college. A plethora of extra-curricular activities make the SIOM experience very interesting. Student committees exist in every domain, be it sports, library or cultural activities. These committees enthusiastically organize events in their respective fields and encourage active participation from the others.

The 'Movie Club' has been one of the recent additions in the scheme of things. This club airs some rare, delectable, world-class classics every fortnight. So, it's quite normal to find students, on a casual Sunday afternoon, engrossed in passionate discussion on the movie that has been aired.

On festive occasions and national holidays, the college is a riot of colour. The latent creative potential of the students is tapped to the fullest, bringing to fore some stunning ideas and perspectives.

Next

* Contributed by -
Sruthi Srinivasan,
MBA (Operations Management),
Class of 2010,
Symbiosis Institute of Operations Management (SIOM), Nashik.
Article posted on December 22, 2008.