Not Just a Programme, but a Personal Transformation at ISB

“Some of the most meaningful chapters begin in uncertainty, woven with detours, confusion, and quiet doubt. And yet, we keep going, trusting that something beautiful is quietly taking shape. Clarity will arrive, not all at once, but as a well-earned reward for perseverance.”

As I complete Term 1 of the PGP MAX program at ISB Hyderabad, I find myself standing at a meaningful crossroads filled with reflection, excitement, and immense gratitude. It marks not just the beginning of an academic journey but the continuation of a deeply personal evolution. It is a reminder of what it means to choose my own Everest, to climb with humility, and to embrace growth with purpose.

A Leap Beyond the Familiar

After more than 21 years building a career in banking and finance, where I oversaw complex lending portfolios and partnered with corporate clients, the choice to return to school wasn’t made lightly. It was a leap inspired by a deep desire to grow beyond what’s familiar, to question long-standing beliefs, and to fully embrace the ethos of lifelong learning. It is about more than just acquiring knowledge. It is about transforming the way I think, lead, and contribute. I want to break out of my comfort zone and develop the kind of perspective and adaptability that fuels meaningful leadership in a rapidly changing world.

That’s why ISB’s PGP MAX program immediately stood out. Its unique format is purpose-built for experienced professionals, with a distinguished faculty and a stellar reputation for academic rigour and industry relevance. The program’s intensive focus on strategic management, leadership, and peer-driven learning is precisely what I need at this pivotal stage in my career.

An Inspiring Start

I am absolutely honoured to be part of such a vibrant and accomplished cohort. We had a magnificent kick-off with orientation, which brought together 80 diverse professionals with extraordinary experience and perspectives. A special highlight was Professor Ram Nidumolu’s session on Beingful Leadership. He wove insights from mythology and Indian epics into leadership in a way that was deeply enlightening.

The ISB team’s hospitality has been outstanding, from the wide culinary offerings every day to the world-class infrastructure and seamless organisation. Their thoughtfulness ensures an exceptional learning environment.

The first week has been intense yet exhilarating, filled with classes, assignments, and collaborative problem-solving. I’m especially grateful for Professor Mohan Venkatachalam, whose infectious energy, clarity, and sense of humour demystified accounting for me. Turning apprehension into genuine curiosity is no small feat. He truly is the “Superman” of accounting.

Our Decision Making Under Uncertainty (DMUU) sessions with Professor Anand, Professor Nishant Ravi, and Professor Ravi Subramanian have been transformative. Their dynamic teaching styles break down complex concepts into actionable leadership skills. I am already seeing how this toolkit will enhance my future decisions, both professionally and personally.

Curiosity as My Compass

The journey ahead spans 15 months, but it is already transforming how I engage with the world. From learning, unlearning, and relearning, to gaining new perspectives and building lasting connections, this is a time of discovery, growth, and purpose. I look forward to learning wholeheartedly and absorbing insights from world-class faculty. I hope to do so free from fear, ego, or inhibition, and instead guided by curiosity as my compass.

I see this program not just as an academic pursuit but as an opportunity to become a more thoughtful, innovative, and empowered version of myself.

Looking forward to an exhilarating journey ahead, filled with growth, friendship, and lifelong learning. The ISB experience is far more than academics. It is an opportunity to reinvent, connect, and truly #MAXitOut.

Synopsis:

Sasmita Sahoo, a seasoned banking and finance professional with over 21 years of experience, joined ISB’s PGP MAX Class of 2026 to challenge her comfort zone and embrace lifelong learning. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to personal growth, purposeful leadership, and intellectual renewal. From late-night case discussions to transformative faculty sessions, her first term has already begun reshaping how she thinks, leads, and aspires to make an impact.