Chitkara University Chandigarh: Interaction with Varun Kumar Sahu (MBA 2015-17, Alumnus)

Founded in 2010, Chitkara University Punjab is a private university recognized by the University of Grants Commission (UGC). Chitkara University Chandigarh has been ranked 22nd in the Architecture category and 20th in the Pharmacy category in the NIRF Ranking 2022. The university offers courses in a variety of streams like IT, Pharmacy, Commerce, Arts, Mass Communication & Journalism, Medicine & Allied Sciences, Management and more. Chitkara University course admissions are offered to students based on merit of the PI and marks obtained in the entrance examinations. Careers360 brings you an interview with Varun Kumar Sahu, MBA Healthcare Management-Alumnus from Chitkara University. Currently he is working with Jhpiego India, as a Program Officer- Health System Strengthening based in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. In his interview to Careers360, Varun shares his experience at Chitkara University. What was it like to be a part of the university? And other things about the University like admission process, Chitkara University courses and fees, placements, campus life and more. Know more about Chitkara University from an alumni perspective, go through the complete interview of Varun Kumar Sahu.

Careers360: Tell us a bit about yourself.

Answer: I am Varun Kumar Sahu, an MBA Healthcare Management graduate from the 2015-17 batch at Chitkara University, Rajpura Punjab Campus. With a total of seven years of experience in the healthcare field, I have worked in various capacities, as a Quality Coordinator, State Consultant-CPHC including an internship at Escort Fortis Hospital Jaipur, followed by roles at IL&FS Skills Corporation and the National Health Mission in Chhattisgarh. Currently, I am working with Jhpiego India, as a Program Officer- Health System Strengthening based in Raipur, Chhattisgarh.

Careers360: What were the factors that made you choose your institution/university?

Answer: I chose Chitkara University primarily because of its academic excellence and reputation. It is globally recognized and known for providing quality education. The university's strong emphasis on practical learning, industry exposure, and its placement track record were influential factors in my decision to join. Additionally, the healthcare management program offered by Chitkara aligned perfectly with my interest in the field.

Careers360: Why did you choose to pursue your specialization?

Answer: I chose to pursue a specialization in healthcare management due to my passion for the healthcare industry. I wanted to contribute to the improvement of healthcare delivery and make a positive impact on people's lives. The MBA program in healthcare management provided me with the necessary knowledge and skills to understand the business aspects of healthcare, strategic planning, and healthcare policy, which are crucial for effective management in the industry.

Careers360: Please describe your journey till date.

Answer: My journey thus far has been fulfilling and rewarding. Starting with my internship at Escort Fortis Hospital, I gained practical exposure to the healthcare environment. Working at IL&FS Skills Corporation and the National Health Mission in Chhattisgarh allowed me to contribute to the development and implementation of healthcare initiatives at a larger scale. Currently, with Jhpiego India, I am involved in projects that focus on improving comprehensive primary healthcare services that will improve health outcomes in India & lead to Universal Health Coverage. These experiences have enriched my understanding of healthcare management and the challenges faced in the field.

Careers360: What are the key learning points from your college days that have held you in good stead so far?

Answer: The key learning points from my college days that have been invaluable to my professional growth include strong analytical and problem-solving skills, effective communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to adapt to dynamic environments, and a comprehensive understanding of healthcare management principles. Additionally, the emphasis on teamwork and leadership fostered during my college days has been instrumental in my career progression.

Careers360: Share a few good memories from your college days.

Answer: Some cherished memories from my college days include participating in skit competitions, organizing a workshop on patient safety, and going to Fortis Mohali for industry exposure. One of the highlights was when my abstract was selected by PGI Chandigarh for poster presentation, which provided me with a platform to showcase my research and interact with experts in the field. The Global Business Week organized by the university was also a memorable experience that broadened my perspective and introduced me to new ideas.

Careers360: What were the extra-curricular activities you participated in during your college days? How did they help in shaping your future and career path?

Answer: During my college days, I actively participated in skits, organized workshops, and presented papers. These activities helped me enhance my communication skills, develop my leadership abilities, and foster teamwork. They provided me with opportunities to explore different aspects of healthcare management, interact with professionals, and gain practical insights beyond the classroom. Engaging in extracurricular activities broadened my horizons and nurtured a holistic approach to my career path.

Careers360: How would you describe the support that you got from the faculty and team/classmates? How did it help?

Answer: The support I received from the faculty and my classmates at Chitkara University was exceptional. The faculty members were not only highly knowledgeable and experienced in their respective fields but also approachable and supportive. They provided valuable guidance, and mentorship, and encouraged critical thinking, which helped me develop a strong foundation in healthcare management. The interactive classroom sessions, discussions, and practical case studies facilitated a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

Moreover, my classmates played a crucial role in my academic journey. We collaborated on group projects, shared resources, and engaged in healthy discussions, which enriched our learning experience. The diversity of perspectives within our cohort fostered a stimulating environment where we could learn from one another and broaden our horizons. The strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork greatly contributed to my personal and professional growth, and I am grateful for the support I received throughout my time at Chitkara University.

Careers360: What was your placement season like? Any memories you would like to share with our readers?

Answer: Although I have not participated in the campus placement season, I was fortunate enough to secure a job before it. However, I witnessed the placement season and saw my classmates going through the process. The university's placement cell and career services provided extensive support, organizing recruitment drives, connecting students with industry professionals, and mock interviews.

I remember the excitement and anticipation during the placement season. The campus buzzed with energy as renowned companies visited to recruit talented individuals. Witnessing my classmates receive job offers and celebrating their successes created a vibrant and motivating atmosphere on campus. It was inspiring to see the culmination of our hard work and preparation pays off.

Careers360: Do you believe that constant reinvention is a must, and one needs to keep abreast of updated trends in the field? How best would you describe the process?

Answer: Absolutely, constant reinvention and staying abreast of updated trends are essential in any field, particularly in healthcare. The industry is continuously evolving due to advancements in technology, changes in healthcare policies, and emerging research findings. To stay competitive and make meaningful contributions, professionals need to embrace lifelong learning and adapt to new developments.

The process of staying updated involves several steps. First, it is crucial to develop a curious mindset and actively seek knowledge. This can be done through continuous reading, attending seminars and conferences, participating in workshops, and pursuing relevant certifications or advanced education. Networking with professionals in the field and engaging in discussions on industry platforms can also provide valuable insights.

Moreover, staying updated requires keeping a pulse on the latest research, technological advancements, and best practices in healthcare management. Subscribing to industry journals, following reputable websites and thought leaders, and joining professional associations can help in accessing up-to-date information.

Careers360: Your advice to future aspirants?

Answer: My advice to future aspirants would be: Choose a specialization that aligns with your passion and interests. It will keep you motivated and dedicated throughout your academic and professional journey. Actively engage in extracurricular activities and take advantage of opportunities for personal and professional growth beyond the classroom.

Build strong relationships with faculty members, classmates, and professionals in the industry. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and provide valuable guidance.

Embrace lifelong learning and stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in your field. Continuous self-improvement will help you stay relevant and excel in your career.

Seek internships or practical experiences to gain hands-on exposure to the industry. Real-world experience can complement your theoretical knowledge and enhance your employability.

Be proactive and take initiative in your career development. Set goals, and develop a strong work ethic.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by Chitkara University and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.

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