“Industry is looking out for creative problem-solvers and ideators”, says MICA Dean

I have been associated with the education sector for the past 30 years and it is a delight to see the way millennials and GenZ perceive and pursue management education. I see the world is now moving away from conventional management theories and practices; and Industry is looking out for creative problem-solvers and ideators. I have witnessed that offbeat creative business initiatives are giving an extra edge to existing and emerging businesses. With the help of AI and data combined, a simple idea can be turned into a business strategy; I would rather call it, the age of Ideas; and we at MICA, the school of ideas, believe in shaping the marketers who can fit into any leadership role - the shapeshifter.

As the Dean of MICA and earlier being associated with various management institutes, I have had the privilege of witnessing the transformative journey of countless management aspirants. In today's dynamic and competitive business landscape, a career in management is not just about being a mere decision-maker; it is about becoming a creative problem-solver, who can navigate the complexities of the marketing and communication domains with ingenuity and innovation.

At MICA, we believe in nurturing future leaders who possess a unique blend of creativity, analytical thinking, and strategic acumen. Our Flagship Post Graduate Diploma in Management (PGDM), Fellowship Programme in Management (FPM) and PG certificate programme in Crafting Creative Communications (CCC) courses are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the marketing and communication industries.

The USP of MICA's flagship PG Diploma programme is its specialized focus on strategic marketing and communication. The MICA PGDM offers specializations in advertising & branding, digital communication, data science and business analytics, and media & entertainment management, giving students a competitive edge in the ever-evolving marketing landscape. On the other hand, the CCC program churns out highly skilled professionals with a high caliber for creative careers in marketing communication. While the FPM programme is designed to prepare exemplary scholars who can meet international norms of research.

As you embark on your journey to prepare for the Common Aptitude Test (CAT) which will be held in November, you will channelise all your energy in Verbal Ability & Reading Comprehension, Data Interpretation & Logical Reasoning, and Quantitative Aptitude. In addition, if you also start working on Psychometric and Descriptive skills, you will be able to strengthen your left and right brain abilities, and you can make it to MICA. You can leverage your CAT preparation to appear for the MICAT, the entrance exam for MICA, and with this you get an extra edge vs. other management aspirants. In contrast to conventional B-schools, MICA curriculum prepares you to become industry ready, as they look for creative problem-solvers and practical decision makers, not merely executives managers.

Mark my words:

As a management aspirant, I would value the emphasis placed on creative solutions, big data visualization through infographics, case-based approaches, communication skills, and in-depth industry knowledge. These essential skills empower graduates to not only understand market dynamics but also devise innovative marketing strategies that make an impact.

A career in marketing demands adaptability and versatility. As a management aspirant, I would appreciate the opportunities at MICA to engage in immersive learning experiences, such as real-world projects, case studies, and simulations, that mirror the complexities of the marketing world. These experiences provide hands-on exposure to the challenges faced by marketers and allow students to hone their problem-solving skills in a risk-free environment.

One of the highlights of MICA's approach to management education is its focus on creative thinking. The ability to think outside the box, craft compelling brand narratives, and develop unique marketing campaigns is a crucial aspect of a successful marketing career. MICA's faculty, comprising accomplished professionals and industry experts, instills in students the art of storytelling and creativity in marketing, enabling them to build memorable brand experiences for consumers.

As a management aspirant, I would see immense value in taking MICA's entrance exam, MICAT. MICAT evaluates candidates based on a comprehensive set of parameters that go beyond traditional academic metrics. The exam assesses candidates' analytical skills, divergent thinking, written communication abilities, and awareness of contemporary social and marketing trends. Being a creative problem-solver involves looking beyond the surface and identifying innovative solutions. MICAT's unique evaluation process aligns perfectly with this philosophy, ensuring that future marketers possess the qualities that the industry seeks.

I firmly believe that applying for both MICAT exams can significantly enhance one's chances of securing admission to MICA's flagship PGDM course. The best of two MICAT scores will be considered, allowing applicants to showcase their progress and growth. By taking both exams, candidates demonstrate their commitment to learning and improvement, characteristics that resonate well with MICA's values.

In conclusion, a career in management, particularly in marketing and communication, is a journey that demands creative problem-solving abilities. At MICA, we strive to instill these qualities in our students, equipping them to become future leaders who bring innovative solutions to the table. The PGDM and CCC courses at MICA provide a platform for aspiring marketers to thrive, combining creativity with strategic thinking and analytical prowess. As a management aspirant, I would embrace the opportunity to embark on this transformative journey at MICA, knowing that it will shape me into a well-rounded and visionary marketing professional.

Remember:

Preparation and Perseverance are the stepping stones to success. I wish you all the best for your CAT preparation and your journey towards becoming future leaders in the world of management. To appear for MICAT, one needs to give either CAT, XAT or GMAT, and after MICAT selected candidates will be invited to appear for Group Exercise and Personal Interview rounds. We are looking for future market leaders and disruptors. 

-Dr. Githa Heggde