Hello everyone! I’m Sania Nagpal, a BBA student from the 2023-27 batch at SP Jain Global, and I want to share with you my incredible first-year experience at our Mumbai campus. When I started my journey here in September 2023, I knew I was in for a transformative ride, but I didn’t anticipate just how enriching and vibrant campus life would be. Here’s a glimpse into my first year and all the amazing opportunities and experiences I’ve had with my batch.

Starting Strong with Interactive Learning and Fun Activities

From the moment we stepped onto the campus, our learning journey began—not just in the classroom but all around Mumbai. One of our first bonding experiences was a trip to Smaaash, an entertainment centre in Mumbai known for its thrilling mix of virtual reality games, interactive sports simulations, and dining. It was an exhilarating way to get to know our classmates better, combining fun with a little friendly competition.

Exploring Mumbai and Its Rich Cultural Diversity

One of the most memorable assignments we had was when our entire batch visited different parts of Mumbai to interact with its diverse communities. We explored the Koli community, known as the original inhabitants of Mumbai; and Dadar’s fisherman community, where we learned about their daily lives and their day-to-day challenges. We also had the unique opportunity to explore the Parsi colony and delve into the rich history and traditions of the community in Mumbai. These experiences were eye opening and truly highlighted the vibrant diversity that makes Mumbai such a dynamic city.

Industry Visit: Insights into Modern Business Practices

As a part of our practical learning experience, we had the opportunity to visit the Mahindra and Mahindra plant in Kandivali. This visit offered a firsthand glimpse into the intricate workings and processes of a renowned company. The immersive excursion not only provided invaluable insights into the modern business landscape but also served as a source of inspiration, enriching our understanding of the Principles of Management.

Understanding Market Dynamics at SEBI and NSE

Professor Firdaus Khan took us on a fascinating field trip to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). This visit was a deep dive into the world of macroeconomics and finance, where we learned about the rules and regulations governing the financial markets in India. SEBI's role in protecting investor interests and ensuring market transparency was thoroughly explained, making us aware of the critical frameworks that shape our economy.

Later, we had another significant learning experience when Professor Shrinivas Shikaripurkar took us to the National Stock Exchange (NSE). We were given a practical demonstration of live trading and learned about the mechanisms that keep the financial world spinning. This helped us grasp the basics of market functioning, which was a crucial part of our management education.

Exploring Cultures and Embracing Diversity

As a part of our World Culture study with Dr. Smitha Ranganathan, we had a fun interactive session on Latin American Dance Forms with Mr. Yogesh Karikurve. He enlightened us about various dance styles and taught us the basics of Salsa and Tango, making the workshop a memorable experience.

Another highlight of the course was a Japanese cultural session hosted by Ms. Madhura. We learned the Japanese paper art techniques, tried our hand at making matcha tea, and explored Japanese calligraphy. This session was a delightful blend of art, culture, and hands-on learning, further enriching our understanding of global traditions.

Engaging in Sports, Mental Health, and Social Responsibility Initiatives

Sports have been a huge part of my first-year experience, thanks to our active sports club. Whether it was cricket matches, football tournaments, or badminton games, we had countless opportunities to bond with students from other programs like BDS (Bachelor of Data Science) and Graduate Certificate of Global Management (GCGM). These activities not only kept us physically active but also allowed us to build a strong community spirit across different programs.

Mental health was another area where our cohort made a significant impact. We participated in campaigns to raise awareness about mental well-being, understanding its importance in today’s fast-paced world. Our ‘Girl Up’ club also took initiatives to spread awareness about the importance of the girl child, particularly on National Girl Child Day, emphasising gender equality and empowerment.

Thrill and Adventure at Della

As the second semester began, we kicked things off with an exciting trip to Della Adventure Park. It was a day packed with thrill and adventure, featuring activities like ziplining, paintball, and cycling. This outing was a fantastic way to rejuvenate and bond with our classmates after the break, setting a vibrant tone for the semester ahead.

Learning from Alums and Exploring Sustainability and CSR

One of the highlights of the year was a session with SP Jain Global’s alum and NGO owner, Yogesh Rao. He shared his insights on the nuances of running an NGO. It was inspiring to learn about the inner workings of NGOs and the impact they can have on society.

Our trips to Govardhan Ecovillage and Godrej Mangroves were also incredibly enlightening. At Govardhan Village, we witnessed sustainable farming practices and learned about living harmoniously with nature, which gave us a new perspective on sustainability. The visit to Godrej Mangroves showed us the importance of conservation efforts in the middle of a bustling city like Mumbai, where traditional practices still thrive amidst modernity.

Branding & Marketing Challenges and the MUN Experience

One of the most exciting projects we participated in was the 'Branding Bonanza', hosted by the business club, where we were tasked with developing a product’s logo, branding, tagline, and market strategy. It was a challenging yet rewarding experience that brought out the creative best in all of us.

I headed the marketing club and hosted an event where participants showcased the vibrant spirit of Mumbai in a captivating photography and writing competition.

I also had the opportunity to participate in Mumbai MUN, where students from various colleges gathered to discuss global issues. This experience was not just about debating but also about understanding the importance of diplomacy, international relations, and the role of the United Nations in fostering global peace and cooperation.

Ending the Year on a High Note

Looking back, it’s incredible to see how much we’ve grown, both as individuals and as a cohort. SP Jain Global has truly been a platform for learning from the inside out, blending classroom education with real-world experiences.

To mark the end of our first year, the college hosted a grand masquerade, a fitting farewell to celebrate the bonds we had formed and the experiences we had shared. It was a night filled with elegance, mystery, and joy as we donned our masks and danced the night away, cherishing the memories of a remarkable year.

I’m excited to see what the next years hold for us! Here’s to more learning, adventures, and unforgettable memories!

- Sania Nagpal

BBA, 2023-2027