An Interview with Amit Dayal, Assistant Manager at KPMG India and Alumnus of Graphic Era University

Amit Dayal, a proud alumnus of Graphic Era University, Dehradun, completed his B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering in 2018. Today, he serves as an Assistant Manager in the Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Consulting division at KPMG India, working in the Energy and Infrastructure sector. Amit’s journey reflects the diverse opportunities available for engineering graduates when they are ready to explore, learn, and pivot.

In this exclusive conversation with Careers360, Amit shares insights about his time at Graphic Era, the transitions in his career, and his advice for aspiring students.

Careers360: Tell us about your current role and domain. Did you pursue the same field you were initially interested in?

Amit Dayal: Currently, I’m working in the CDD (Commercial Due Diligence) department within M&A Consulting at KPMG India, focusing primarily on the Energy and Infrastructure sector. While my undergraduate background is in mechanical engineering, I later transitioned into consulting by pursuing a postgraduate degree in Energy Management. It was a switch, but a strategic one that allowed me to align my technical background with business insights.

Careers360: Could you walk us through your career journey so far?

Amit Dayal: After graduating from Graphic Era, I pursued a postgraduate program in Energy Management. My first placement was with a start-up consulting firm, which gave me hands-on exposure and shaped my career interests. I later moved to Bain & Company, which was a significant turning point. Currently, I am with KPMG India, and each phase has added new learning to my career.

Careers360: Was your work in the industry similar to what you studied during your undergraduate years?

Amit Dayal: Partially. The fundamentals from my engineering education were useful, especially the analytical thinking and problem-solving aspects. However, the nature of the consulting industry, particularly in energy and infrastructure, required a different skill set which I developed later through further education and experience.

Careers360: How did your time at Graphic Era University contribute to your personal and professional growth?

Amit Dayal: My time at Graphic Era gave me a strong foundation. It nudged me to develop an interest in the energy sector, which eventually became the core of my career. It also instilled a sense of discipline, teamwork, and ambition that has helped me throughout my journey.

Careers360: What was your mindset when you joined Graphic Era University?

Amit Dayal: Like many students, I joined Graphic Era with the goal of building a successful career. Over time, the experience broadened my perspective and gave me the confidence to take bold decisions, including switching fields.

Careers360: What did your daily life look like on campus? Any special activities you were involved in?

Amit Dayal: I was a part of Mechame Racers, which was one of the most enriching experiences on campus. It was more than just a technical team—it taught me leadership, coordination, and project execution skills that continue to help me today.

Careers360: Do you miss college life? Could you share any fond memories?

Amit Dayal: Absolutely. I miss my friends, faculty members, and the overall atmosphere of the campus. The support, camaraderie, and spirit at Graphic Era University are truly unmatched. Late-night project discussions and preparing for technical events with my team are some of the memories I hold dear.

Careers360: How did you stay updated with industry trends? What role did the institute play in that?

Amit Dayal: During my time at Graphic Era University, I actively engaged with the faculty, peers, and student-led initiatives, which played a key role in keeping me informed about industry developments. The university provided a strong academic foundation and encouraged analytical thinking, which helped me understand evolving trends in the energy and consulting sectors.

Careers360: From a student’s perspective, what do you think is the best part of studying at Graphic Era University?

Amit Dayal: The learning environment and stream-specific faculty are definitely a plus. The infrastructure, access to labs, and peer group all contribute to a meaningful academic experience.

Careers360: What would be your guidance to current and future B.Tech students?

Amit Dayal: My advice to students would be to stay curious and take initiative beyond classroom learning. Be proactive in exploring internships, certifications, and real-world applications that align with your interests. While the academic foundation is important, it’s equally crucial to develop soft skills and industry awareness. I also encourage students to leverage the university’s resources—faculty mentorship, student clubs, and alumni networks—to build a well-rounded profile. With increasing efforts to enhance placement support across various disciplines, I’m confident that students from all streams will continue to find meaningful career opportunities.

Conclusion
Amit Dayal’s journey from engineering classrooms at Graphic Era University to the boardrooms of KPMG India is a testament to adaptability and ambition. His story reinforces the importance of a strong foundation, willingness to explore, and continual learning.

Disclaimer: This article has been published as a marketing initiative between Careers360 and Graphic Era University.