My Internship Journey: Gaining Industry Insights: More Than Just Skills at Oxane Partners – An anecdote by Aastha from Jaipuria Jaipur
When I first stepped into Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur, I knew that the next two years would be a transformative experience. Little did I know, however, just how pivotal my Summer Internship Program (SIP) would be in shaping my understanding of the corporate world. As a PGDM student, I was eager to apply the knowledge I had gained in the classroom to real-world situations, and my internship at Oxane Partners offered just that — an opportunity to test my limits, learn, and grow.
The Internship at Oxane Partners: A Challenging Start
My first day at Oxane Partners was both exciting and overwhelming. I was assigned to work on the Monthly Servicing Report (MSR) and create deliverables based on complex data sets. The job required me to delve deep into Scalar Tabs and Vector Tabs, terms that were unfamiliar to me at first. I had always been good with numbers and Excel, but this was different. The complexity of the formulas and the need for precise data validation were daunting.
At that moment, I realized that the theoretical knowledge I had acquired during my PGDM was about to be put to the ultimate test. I had to bridge the gap between what I knew in theory and what was required in practice. I struggled initially, spending long hours trying to understand the nuances of financial modeling and data analysis. But I was determined not to give up. With the guidance of my mentor and a lot of perseverance, I slowly began to get the hang of things. Each day brought a new challenge, but it also brought a new lesson.
Learning the Ropes: From Classroom to Boardroom
One of the most valuable aspects of my internship was seeing how the concepts I learned in class translated into the workplace. Whether it was the importance of accuracy in financial reporting or the application of business analytics, I began to see the real-world relevance of everything I had studied. The hours spent learning advanced Excel techniques, understanding financial structures, and analyzing case studies in class suddenly made sense as I applied them to my work at Oxane.
But it wasn’t just the technical skills that were important. I quickly learned that communication and teamwork were just as crucial. The ability to convey my ideas clearly, collaborate with my team, and ask the right questions when I was unsure became key to my success. Every day, I was reminded that education goes beyond books; it’s about how you interact with people, how you manage your time, and how you approach problems.
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone: Finding My Leadership Voice
While my internship was a significant part of my journey, it wasn’t the only place where I was learning and growing. Back at Jaipuria, I was eager to get involved in extracurricular activities, but it wasn’t easy. I faced rejections when I applied for the Life After 6 (LA6) Committee and the Extracurricular Committee (ECC).
But I didn’t want to give up. Instead of letting those rejections define me, I decided to channel my energy into something different. I joined the Dramatic Club, where I finally felt like I was making a difference. This experience gave me the confidence to push myself further. So, when the opportunity to run for the head position of the LA6 committee arose, I took it, despite my earlier rejections. It was a bold move. Winning the head position was a turning point for me. It wasn’t just about the title; it was about proving to myself that I could lead and organize events that would make a difference. By my second year, I had organized two successful events for the juniors, something I was incredibly proud of. These experiences taught me that leadership isn’t about always getting it right the first time; it’s about resilience, learning from failures, and constantly striving to do better.
Gaining Industry Insights: More Than Just Skills
My time at Oxane Partners wasn’t just about honing my technical skills; it was also about gaining a deeper understanding of the industry. I was exposed to areas like Asset-Based Lending (ABL), Real Estate, and Structured Products—fields that I had only touched upon in my studies. Seeing how these areas functioned in the real world gave me a broader perspective on finance and its many facets.
Moreover, my communication and presentation skills were put to the test. I learned how to present data in a way that was clear and compelling, how to negotiate with potential sponsors for college events, and how to articulate my thoughts confidently. These skills, I realized, were just as important as the technical knowledge I was acquiring. They were the tools that would help me succeed not just in my internship, but in my future career.
Looking Back: Advice for Future PGDM Students
As I reflect on my journey, there are a few pieces of advice I would offer to those who will follow in my footsteps. Be proactive—don’t wait for opportunities to come to you; seek them out. Network diligently, ask questions, and never be afraid to seek feedback. Document your work meticulously and be adaptable to changing situations. These are the lessons that will help you navigate not just your internship, but your entire career.
My journey at the Jaipuria Institute of Management has been one of growth, resilience, and discovery. My internship at Oxane Partners challenged me in ways I never imagined, but it also prepared me for the challenges of the corporate world. The combination of academic rigor and real-world application at Jaipuria has equipped me with the tools I need to succeed.