As I embarked on my PGDM journey at Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, I was eager to dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of banking, particularly the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping its future. The opportunity to undertake dual internships—one at Indian Bank and the other at Kwantics—came as a perfect chance to explore the convergence of traditional banking practices and cutting-edge AI technologies. This journey turned out to be an eye-opener, offering me a unique blend of experiences that not only enriched my knowledge but also transformed my perspective on the future of banking.

Exploring Traditional Banking at Indian Bank

My internship at Indian Bank began with a focus on the marketing team, where my main goal was to convert leads into loyal customers for Current and Savings Accounts. Initially, it seemed straightforward—after all, I had spent months learning about marketing strategies and customer behavior in class. However, the reality on the ground was different. Each customer had unique needs and concerns, and effectively communicating the benefits of our offerings required not just persuasion, but a deep understanding of their financial aspirations. This experience sharpened my skills in customer interaction and relationship management and taught me the importance of empathy in sales—a lesson I hadn’t fully grasped until then.

As I settled into my role, I was given a new challenge: streamlining the Know Your Customer (KYC) process at the branch. The sheer scale of documentation and the critical nature of compliance made this task daunting. Yet, it was here that I learned the value of meticulous organization and operational efficiency. Managing and optimizing the KYC process not only improved the branch’s workflow but also gave me a hands-on understanding of the operational backbone of banking—something that no textbook could truly convey.

Exploring AI at Kwantics: A Glimpse into the Future

While Indian Bank grounded me in the fundamentals of traditional banking, my internship at Kwantics was a venture into the future. Here, I was tasked with developing a large language model (LLM) for ESG GPT, which involved coding a tool to scrape data from a multitude of websites. This was uncharted territory for me. The technical challenges of building a robust and accurate database from scratch were immense, and the learning curve was steep.

However, the satisfaction of overcoming these challenges was equally immense. I learned not just the technicalities of web scraping and data extraction, but also the broader implications of AI in transforming how data is utilized in the banking sector. This experience was a crash course in AI and machine learning, and it equipped me with skills that are increasingly becoming indispensable in today’s digital-first world.

AI in Banking: Enhancing Customer Experience

One of the most exciting aspects of my time at Kwantics was witnessing firsthand how AI is revolutionizing customer service in banking. AI-powered chatbots, for instance, are redefining customer interactions by offering instant, round-the-clock assistance. Seeing the impact of these technologies—such as Bank of America’s Erica chatbot—reinforced the importance of AI in not just streamlining operations, but also in creating more personalized and efficient customer experiences. This, I realized, is where the future of banking lies.

The Dual Internship Advantage: A Diverse Learning Experience

Balancing these two internships was challenging, but the rewards were manifold. Working in two distinct sectors—traditional banking at Indian Bank and AI-driven innovation at Kwantics—allowed me to develop a diverse skill set that I wouldn’t have acquired otherwise. This dual experience made me more adaptable, giving me insights into different industry dynamics and operational methodologies.

Moreover, the dual internships significantly enhanced my employability. The ability to manage responsibilities in both a traditional banking environment and a tech-driven AI setting showcased my versatility to potential employers. It also broadened my professional network, connecting me with industry experts and mentors who provided invaluable guidance and support.

As I reflect on this journey, I realize how much I’ve grown, both professionally and personally. The PGDM program at Jaipuria Institute of Management has been instrumental in this growth, preparing me to navigate different industries with confidence. The support and guidance from my mentors, coupled with the practical learning opportunities, have shaped me into a more adaptable and versatile individual—qualities that are essential in today’s ever-evolving corporate landscape.

The takeaways from my summer internship are immense, as this a wealth of benefits like:

1. Enhanced Skill Set: Working across two distinct sectors allowed Gourab to develop a diverse skill set, making him adaptable to various industry needs.
2. Broader Industry Insight: Exposure to both the banking and AI industries broadened his understanding of different business operations and market dynamics.
3. Increased Employability: Handling diverse roles across industries bolstered his employability, demonstrating his ability to manage multiple responsibilities effectively.
4. Networking Opportunities: Dual internships expanded his professional network, connecting him with experts and mentors across various fields, and fostering valuable relationships.

As I look forward to the next steps in my career, I carry with me the lessons learned, the skills acquired, and the connections made during this incredible journey. I’m excited to see where this path will lead me next, and I’m confident that the foundation laid by Jaipuria and these internships will continue to guide me toward success.