If someone told me a few years ago that a boy from Beawar, Rajasthan, would one day study across Singapore and Dubai, make the Dean’s List thrice, and lead student initiatives at one of the world’s most reputed global business schools, I’d have probably laughed. But that’s exactly what happened, and every challenge along the way was a lesson in evolution.

Beginnings — A business mindset from day one

Before joining the Master of Global Business (MGB) program, I completed my B.Com, already fascinated by how brands win hearts and shape markets. Business wasn’t just a subject; it was something I lived and breathed since school days. I’d find myself analysing marketing campaigns, predicting product strategies, and wondering what makes one idea succeed over another.

Why MGB — Learning without borders

When I came across SP Jain Global’s twin-city model, I knew it was the perfect fit. I didn’t want to just learn business — I wanted to live it in different markets, cultures, and industries. The MGB program promised something more than a degree; it was a chance to understand the pulse of business across continents, to see how strategy, culture, and innovation intertwine in real life.

Singapore: The nervous beginning that built confidence

Landing in Singapore for Term 1 was both exciting and intimidating. A new country, new peers, and a new pace — everything demanded adaptability. I still remember our Global Learning visits to Google, DHL, and LSEG, where innovation felt tangible. The Gardens by the Bay, Haji Lane, and Night Safari weren’t just sightseeing; they were lessons in how a country can merge discipline, diversity, and design seamlessly.
It wasn’t easy fitting in among brilliant minds from across the world, but I learned that consistency beats comfort.

Mentors who mattered

My academic journey was shaped by mentors who left a lifelong mark.

• Dr Balakrishna Grandhi, through his Customer Value Management Simulation, taught me how to see markets not as numbers but as people.
• Dr Umesh Kothari deepened my love for marketing. His clarity and storytelling made even complex concepts fascinating.
• Dr Veena taught balance, optimism, and the art of calm leadership.
• Dr Christopher Abraham and Dr Bhanu Ranjan refined how I communicate and negotiate. And I’d be remiss not to mention Mrs Suparna and Mrs Nivedita, who constantly supported students and reminded us that empathy and excellence can coexist.

Dubai: From learning to leading

Moving to Dubai for Terms 2 & 3 felt like pressing fast-forward. The business scene here was fierce, futuristic, and filled with opportunities to test everything we’d learned. While Singapore taught adaptability, Dubai demanded action.

There were moments of criticism and doubt, but those shaped me more than praise ever could. I learned that resilience is built in silence by showing up, staying kind, and working harder than ever. By Term 3, I wasn’t just another student — I had earned my place as a three-time Dean’s List awardee with the highest GPA in my batch.

Our industry project with Hydrich NG, a hydrogen-rich alkaline water brand, gave me a front-row seat to how strategy meets execution. From consumer insights to go-to-market models, it was my first taste of real-world business problem-solving.

Dubai memories — Where growth met grit

Between late-night project submissions, academic committee meetings, and movie marathons with friends, Dubai became home. As a student leader, I had the privilege of bridging communication between the college and its students, ensuring their welfare, inclusivity, and a sense of belonging. Those nights of teamwork, laughter, and collective deadlines are memories I’ll never trade. Beyond academics, I also had the opportunity to host several flagship events like business conclaves and speaker sessions, where I represented my cohort in front of industry leaders and visiting executives. I also participated in multiple volunteering initiatives through college, from on-ground support at events to helping organise cultural and academic activities, each adding a new dimension to my leadership journey.

Internship — Learning beyond the classroom

My internship at Garden of Eden Properties LLC in Dubai was an eye-opener into how companies break into new markets. I handled LinkedIn strategy, lead generation, client relations, and even on-ground sales, witnessing firsthand how persistence and data-driven storytelling drive growth. Collaborating with leasing managers, pitching to partners, and representing the brand at events sharpened both my confidence and business acumen.

The Dean’s List secret — Not just hard work, but smart faith

If there’s one mantra I live by, it’s this: “Consistency > Talent — every single time.” I learned to show up before I was ready, to lead with empathy, and to never let setbacks define me. My advice to new students? Don’t chase perfection — chase progress. The MGB journey isn’t a sprint; it’s a transformation.

Looking back — A journey that redefined me

As convocation nears, I can’t help but replay every moment — the first nervous class in Singapore, the adrenaline of our Dubai projects, the late-night coffee runs before presentations. SP Jain Global didn’t just teach me business; it taught me to believe in myself. This program not only shaped my professional foundation but also my personality, transforming me from someone unsure about the future to someone ready to lead it. And if there’s one thing I’d tell the next generation of MGB students, it’s simple — don’t just aim to survive. Evolve, stand out, and lead.

About the author

Snehil Nabera is currently a student of the Master of Global Business program, 2024 batch.
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