XLRI: A Bschool, an experience, an identity

PGDHRM at XLRI Jamshedpur is not only a course, it is an identity to take pride in. Not only have eminent personalities once graced its hallowed corridors as students, but the institute has also always thrived to consistently uphold its legacy even after 70+ years. For an aspiring HR, this is truly the first choice, as it has been named the Best HR course in the Asia Pacific. The flagship 2-year full-time residential program offers admission through XAT, which usually takes place on the first Sunday of January. Thereafter, candidates are shortlisted for the next round via a cutoff score (for both overall and sectional). The pedagogy is majorly case-based and the faculty are all highly competent and experienced.

The faculty members are highly competent and experienced. The faculty-student ratio is also high, with a course being the specialization area for multiple faculty members with doctorate degrees. The pedagogy is cased based and classroom discussion and participation are used as common tools to enhance peer learning. The learning environment is highly conducive.

Various consult, FMCG, tech companies visit XLRI, the stipend varies across companies. Roles offered are GenMan, ProdMan, S&M, HRBP intern etc. Students are exposed to the end-to-end intricacies of the role in their 2-month internship.

There is a saying in XLRI that translates to, "If you've reached XL, you'll definitely get placed". Even in the covid year, the institute saw an average package of 25 l p.a. with a median of 23 l p.a. which is an improvement from last year. Other than top consult companies, various HR, S&M and Prodman roles recruit from XLRI.

The fee structure includes general components like tuition, course material, infrastructure, etc. The institute did not hike its fees in the COVID situation. Multiple scholarship options are available, including the prestigious Aditya Birla Scholarship.

The primary annual cultural fest is called Ensemble Valhalla, usually organized in Dec-Jan. Other than these there are various flagship events/ conferences/ competitions organized by the various student committees, which adorn many industry stalwarts. The famous XL-IIMC sports rivalry stands testimonial to the support & encouragement received by XLers in terms of the sports facilities. The campus itself is state-of-the-art, as supported by its AACSB and AMBA accreditation. The library resources are exhaustive and classrooms are well maintained.

Hostels are single accommodation. They are well maintained and equipped with all necessary amenities like a single bed, table-chair, cupboard, etc. The student can opt for a washing machine or paid laundry. Separate mess fees are also applicable if opted. The mess is run by a student committee, which addresses concerns from time to time. Meals are of decent quality with adequate safety precautions being followed in the COVID aftermath.

My GD topic was, "HR acts as a liaison between managers and employees". It was recorded by the panel and follow-up questions were asked on the PI basis that. A small WAT was also conducted to test what we gathered from the GD. So for HR, having an idea about the role and relevant current affairs topics like change in labour laws enhances one's chances. I think knowing your undergrad, job tasks through and through, being confident and humble in demeanour, and overall communicating a clear vision regarding Why MBA/MBA in HR- would help one ace the PI round.