Shubham Sharma

Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore

“Entrepreneur at heart, passionate about creating impactful products, lifelong learner, evolving with every challenge.”

Hometown: Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

Fun Fact About Yourself: I dive deep into interests, often turning them into full-blown obsessions. So, I steer clear of alcohol.

Undergraduate School and Major: NIIT University, Computer Science Engineering

Most Recent Employer and Job Title: Boomitra, Product Manager

Aside from your classmates, what was the key part of IIM Bangalore’s MBA programming that led you to choose this business school and why was it so important to you? From my early entrepreneurial ventures at the age of 16, I’ve always been driven by innovation and the potential of technology to reshape industries. I’ve been at the forefront of change, whether it is the realms of digital marketing and tech startups, or my recent role as a product manager for a groundbreaking sustainability startup focused on carbon credits through regenerative soil agriculture. When I considered pursuing an MBA, I sought an institution that mirrored my passion for innovation and had a legacy of nurturing forward-thinking leaders.

IIM Bangalore, with its prestigious reputation, was naturally on my radar. However, what truly set it apart for me, beyond the allure of brilliant classmates, was its cutting-edge MBA programming. The curriculum’s emphasis on real-world challenges, its integration of technology with business, and its focus on sustainable and responsible leadership resonated deeply with my personal and professional journey. It wasn’t just about acquiring a degree; it was about immersing myself in an environment that would challenge my perspectives, refine my visions, and equip me with the tools to drive the next wave of innovation in the business world.

To me, choosing IIM Bangalore was more than a decision; it was a commitment to a future where I could merge my entrepreneurial spirit with the academic rigor and holistic learning that the institution offers. It was about aligning my past experiences with a future that promises endless possibilities.

What has been your favorite course or extracurricular activity at IIM Bangalore? What has been the most important lesson that you have learned from it?  One of my favorite courses at IIM Bangalore was the “Entrepreneurial Management” course. It felt a lot like the “Digital Product Management” class, but with a fun twist. We got to dream up our own business idea and see how it might come to life. It wasn’t just about reading and tests; we were creating something. Through this, I learned that starting something new has its ups-and-downs, but it’s all about sticking with it and adapting. That class, with all its hands-on work, has been a highlight for me.

What makes Bengaluru such as great place to earn your MBA? Bengaluru feels a bit like home to me. It reminds me of Shimla with its greenery and nice weather. Plus, it’s a place where lots of new tech ideas are born, which is exciting for someone like me studying business. Being here for my MBA just feels right; it’s like learning in the middle of where all the action is, but also having a touch of home.

Describe your biggest accomplishment in your career so far: My biggest accomplishment in my career thus far has been the realization of a long-held dream: achieving the magical figure of $1 million in revenue. This milestone was reached in 2020 with my own company, Afterkite Web Pvt. Ltd. Starting from scratch and bootstrapping Afterkite, a growth marketing firm, to such a significant annual turnover was a testament to my entrepreneurial spirit. Even more, it was also a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. It was a moment that validated my skills in growth marketing, strategy, and business development, and it stands as a proud testament to what I can achieve when I set my mind to a goal.

Describe your biggest accomplishment as an MBA student so far: During my time as an MBA student, I haven’t grabbed any big awards or titles. Instead, what I’ve really gained is a new way of seeing things. Conversations with diverse classmates, tackling different challenges, and realizing there’s always another side to a story have been my real achievements. It’s all about the growth in understanding and perspective, and I’m pretty proud of that.

What is your class’s favorite hangout away from school? Why do you gather there? Our IIM Bangalore campus is like a big, green backyard. We all love taking long walks, chatting, and just soaking in the nature around us. But when the weekend rolls in, our hostel common areas become the go-to spots.

What do you hope to do after graduation? After graduation from IIM Bangalore, I plan to channel my entrepreneurial spirit and product management expertise into my next big venture. Drawing from my past experiences of building and scaling products, my foremost ambition is to create a product that resonates deeply with its audience. My long-term goal is clear: develop a product that is embraced by over a million happy users. I believe that with the right blend of innovation, user-centric design, and strategic marketing, I can craft a solution that not only addresses a significant market need, but also garners widespread appreciation and usage. Every milestone I’ve achieved so far has been a stepping stone, and this vision of impacting a million lives positively is the next big leap I’m aiming for.

What advice would you give to help potential applicants gain admission into IIM Bangalore? Gaining admission to IIM Bangalore is as much about authenticity as it is about achievements. Embrace your unique journey and don’t try to fit a predefined mold. Highlight experiences that have truly shaped you, whether they’re professional milestones, personal challenges, or community initiatives. Engage with the IIMB community to understand its ethos and values. Most importantly, be unapologetically yourself. The institution values genuine individuals who bring diverse perspectives and stories. Trust in your own narrative, and remember that being genuine is your strongest asset.

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