Date: 21-06-2025
Time: 11.00 AM to 12.00 PM
Venue: Seminar Hall, Dr. D. Y Patil B School
Resource Person: Mr. Shashikant Pawar
Associate Director, learning & Organizational Development
Emcure Pharma
Participants: PGDM and PGDM Global Students and Faculty
Faculty Coordinator: Mr. Bhalchandra, Mrs. Pinki Kumari
Organizer: Center of Quality Assurance and Placement Cell
Objectives: The session aims to instill confidence, Career advice, and insights for MBA students, focusing on skills needed for corporate success, particularly in functions like sales, marketing, operations, supply chain, finance, and HR.
Detail Report:
As part of the Diksharambh 2025–27 induction program, Dr. D. Y. Patil B-School was pleased to welcome Mr. Shashikant Pawar for an engaging and thought-provoking session on "Career is a Trek". The session commenced with a warm welcome and felicitation by Dr. Sheetal Darekar, Head of Placements, followed by a brief introduction to Mr. Pawar’s diverse professional experiences across industries and geographies.
The event was attended by the PGDM and PGDM Global Batch of 2025–27, along with faculty members and staff. Mr. Pawar’s session offered a unique and refreshing perspective on career development by drawing parallels between career journeys and trekking expeditions.
Mr. Pawar began by describing the shift from a predictable and linear career path to a more uncertain and evolving one in today’s era of disruption. He emphasized that a career in the 21st century resembles a trekking expedition rather than a smooth ride on a highway. It is full of unpredictable terrains, challenges, and learning opportunities that demand preparation, adaptability, and resilience.
He encouraged students to view their MBA as the beginning of this trek—a chance to discover hidden strengths, develop critical life skills, and step outside their comfort zones.
Key Highlights:
Career as a Trek: A metaphorical comparison that stresses preparation, perseverance, and the ability to adapt.
Disruption Era: Unlike earlier decades of steady progress, today’s careers are shaped by fast-paced, uncertain changes.
Importance of Basics: Just like packing for a trek, career success begins with mastering foundational tools like Excel, PowerPoint, and communication.
Adaptability: Mr. Pawar shared his experience of learning Punjabi while working in Delhi as an example of embracing new environments and cultures.
Power of Questioning: He emphasized that asking questions is a powerful tool for learning, growth, and making any journey meaningful.
Satopanth Lake Trek: Mr. Pawar shared his experience trekking in the Himalayas to Sato panth Lake as a metaphor for career struggles and triumphs.
The “Layman” Trekker: A story about a physically unfit trekker who completed a challenging trek, used to reinforce the idea that everyone has untapped potential.
Ranger Roll & Backpacking Tips: Practical trekking habits were creatively linked to professional preparedness and discipline.
Message to Students
Mr. Pawar left the students with a clear message: just like a trek, a successful career demands mental strength, preparation, and adaptability. He urged them to take on challenges with curiosity, embrace discomfort as growth, and never hesitate to ask meaningful questions.
Outcomes of the Session:
Students gained a fresh and relatable framework to understand career progression.
Reinforced the importance of practical skill-building and emotional resilience in a fast-changing world.
Inspired students to treat their MBA journey as a transformative trek toward self-discovery and professional success.
Mr. Shashikant Pawar’s session was both inspirational and enriching. His ability to blend personal anecdotes with professional wisdom created an immersive learning experience for the students. It left them energized, reflective, and better prepared to embark on their MBA journey with a sense of purpose and adventure.