My Internship Experience at IIM Ahmedabad: Swayam Tibrewal

This article is about my internship experience at IIM Ahmedabad in the field of Information Management during the winter of 2015. At IIM Ahmedabad, I worked on a case titled “Evaluation of Resource Discovery Protocols in Mobile Ad-Hoc File Sharing.” Professors at IIM Ahmedabad can offer a stipend to only two interns under their supervision. However, recognizing my interest in the project, my guide offered me the opportunity to work on it. Although I did not receive a stipend, as my guide had already promised it to two other students, the experience was invaluable. At the end of the internship, I received a certificate of completion and a promise of a letter of recommendation when I needed it.

Typically, such internships last between one to four months, with a two-month duration being most common. If you’re fortunate enough to secure an on-campus internship, you can stay near IIM Ahmedabad and work within its premises. 

Securing the IIM Ahmedabad Internship: The Journey

In the early months of my second year of B.Tech., I began searching for internship opportunities. Thanks to platforms like Quora and LinkedIn, I discovered that prestigious institutions like IIM Ahmedabad offer internships in various domains. I was particularly drawn to the Information Management field. Initially, I had no idea how to secure an internship, but I researched thoroughly and navigated the process on my own. I went through the list of professors on IIM Ahmedabad’s website, emailed many of them, and eventually received offers from three professors for the summer of 2015. However, I had already committed to an internship with IISc Bangalore, so I declined the on-campus offers from IIM Ahmedabad and chose to pursue the IISc Bangalore internship instead. I took up the off-campus internship at IIM Ahmedabad that summer.

That winter, I reached out to IIM Ahmedabad professors once again. After submitting numerous applications, I was selected to work on a project under the supervision of a professor in the Information Management domain. Although I didn’t receive a stipend (as the professor could only offer stipends to two interns), the experience itself was priceless. In addition to the internship certificate, I received a promise of a recommendation letter. The internship lasted for about two months, and the flexibility of working both on and off-campus made it a great opportunity.

Application Process: Tips and Insights

Applying for an internship at IIM Ahmedabad requires careful thought. Here’s what I learned:

1. Choose Your Domain: Start by narrowing down your area of interest. I had always been interested in mobile ad-hoc networks and networking, which aligned with the projects available at IIM Ahmedabad.
2. Prior Knowledge and Experience: Gaining relevant knowledge and working on projects in your chosen domain will greatly enhance your chances.
3. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Your CV should highlight your skills, achievements, and goals. A personalized cover letter is crucial—since each professor has different research interests, tailor your letter accordingly to stand out.
4. Be Clear and Professional: Keep your emails concise but professional. Be sure to mention your availability, stipend requirements, and any accommodation queries.
5. Eligibility: Anyone with experience in the domain of interest is eligible to apply, provided they can demonstrate genuine interest and expertise.

The Competitive Selection Process

The competition for internships at IIM Ahmedabad is intense. Professors receive numerous emails from students around the world, and they select candidates who can contribute meaningfully to their research. My background in Mobile Ad-Hoc Networks (gained during my third year) and my strong academic record with a CGPA of 9.5 certainly gave me an edge. Additionally, my leadership roles—such as being a Board Member of the Entrepreneurship Cell and the President (Marketing) of the Rowing Canyon at VIT—helped me stand out. I also had experience publishing papers in technical and management journals, which was a plus. Professors are not only looking for academic excellence but also for interns who can add value to their research. A well-structured CV and a clear understanding of your domain are essential to making a strong impression. 

My Internship Experience at IIM Ahmedabad

The project I worked on was titled “Evaluation of Resource Discovery Protocols in Mobile Ad-Hoc File Sharing Networks.” My role involved developing a scalable broadcasting algorithm for peer-to-peer (P2P) sharing of multimedia files over mobile devices using Wi-Fi connections. I designed and tested different scenarios to analyse the protocol’s effectiveness in small areas. The implementation was done using Omnet++ and its INET framework, an open-source network simulation tool. The project provided me with a deep dive into network protocols, and I gained valuable experience developing both my technical and research skills.

Intellectual Growth and Takeaways

My internship experience at IIM Ahmedabad was intellectually enriching. The campus atmosphere is dynamic, with a high level of energy and ambition. Even though my stint was brief, the exposure was invaluable. I attended PGP (Post Graduate Programme) classes, which gave me a clear understanding of what an MBA entails—something many students don’t fully grasp before joining a B-school. I also had the chance to visit the CIIE (Centre for Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship), where I got an up-close look at the startup culture and how innovation drives new ideas. The entire experience opened my eyes to the endless possibilities in business and innovation.

Even as an intern, I wasn’t confined to just research work. I participated in PGP lectures, attended seminars by eminent speakers, and even helped organize the cultural fest. These experiences helped me grow both professionally and personally.

The Impact on My Future

This internship had a profound impact on my career trajectory. It gave me clarity on what I wanted to pursue in the future. I began preparing for the CAT with the goal of joining IIM Ahmedabad as a PGP student. The insights and experiences I gained during the internship proved valuable during my interview and enhanced my overall profile. Looking back, I’m grateful for the opportunity and the learning the internship provided.

If you’re looking for an internship that pushes you out of your comfort zone and helps you grow intellectually and personally, I highly recommend considering opportunities at institutions like IIM Ahmedabad.

As I moved forward in my journey, I carried not only the knowledge I gained but also the sense of purpose and drive that the experience instilled in me. I went on to take the CAT Examination, joined IIM Bangalore in 2019, and later interned with AT Kearney for my Summer Internship Program. I also received a PPI (Pre-placement Interview) for the P&G Emerging Leader Program. I now work as a consultant at YCP Auctus.

My internship at IIM Ahmedabad was more than just an academic experience; it was a pivotal moment in my personal and professional development. The hands-on research, exposure to cutting-edge ideas, and the chance to interact with some of the brightest minds in the field were invaluable. The work I did—whether in research, project design, or technical implementation—shaped my skills and deepened my understanding of the Information Management domain. Beyond the technical knowledge, the experience also instilled a sense of purpose and a broader perspective on innovation and entrepreneurship, thanks to my exposure to the startup ecosystem through the Centre for Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE).

Internships at prestigious institutions like IIM Ahmedabad are unique, offering more than just the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge. They provide an environment that fosters intellectual curiosity, encourages professional growth, and builds a network that will be beneficial throughout your career. My time at IIM Ahmedabad solidified my career goals, giving me the confidence to pursue the CAT and ultimately join IIM Bangalore.

The internship experience also highlighted the importance of being proactive and seeking out opportunities, as well as the value of perseverance when competing for top-tier internships. For anyone looking to challenge themselves, expand their horizons, and immerse themselves in world-class research, an internship at IIM Ahmedabad is truly an opportunity worth pursuing. It is an investment in both knowledge and self-development that will pay dividends in the long run.