Introduction
I completed class 10th with 90% marks in my CBSE boards; similarly, in class 12th scored around 90%. I have done my graduation from Banaras Hindu University in Bcom with Finance honours. Also, I appeared for my CAT exams, after which I got into the Faculty of Management Studies - Banaras Hindu University. The summer internship program was an integral part of our course; every MBA student must go through it. Several companies visited our college to provide internships. We also had the opportunity to apply off-campus. I was targeting the PSU companies, so I applied for an internship at RBI. Apart from academics, cricket is something that I love to play. I also actively participated in debates and quizzes.
How did you get this internship?
I applied for RBI off-campus. In the application form, RBI asks about the percentages in class 10, class 12, and graduation marks. They then ask about the subject or domain you want to do in the summer internship program. They also look into the extra-curricular activities in which you have participated. I represented my university in the parliament which also aided my selection to RBI. Shortlisting was done based on your profile. I was called for a one-on-one interview where the jury members asked me more about myself. It was not stressful, but yes, you have to be very aware of what you are answering.
What a day in your life as a summer RBI intern looks like?
In my case, it was an office-going job. I was lucky enough not to have my internship in work-from-home mode. It was very lucrative and respectable for me to work at RBI. They will serve you as a guest, and the work atmosphere there is entirely workaholic. Discipline, punctuality, and attendance are something that will be marked daily. There are different departments in RBI, so inter-department operability should be there. I was assigned to handle data information. At the same time, I also needed to know about the finances. My colleagues there at RBI were also supportive and helpful.
How has your overall experience at RBI been?
Working at RBI was an excellent experience for me. I had to work there 5 days a week from 9:50 am to 5:15 pm. There is no such work pressure, but there are deadlines that you have to meet. It was a three-month internship where I had to set my own target. In one and a half months, I completed my data analysis. We then had to present our analysis to the Regional Director. Setting up my weekly goals was the most beneficial thing for me because it helped me to meet the deadlines on time.
I was always looking for internships at such an institution. I have always wanted to do internships at such PSU companies, so I was waiting for the opportunity to do an internship at RBI.
Tell us about the importance of internships.
I will do a couple more internships before I complete my post-graduation. I think internships are beneficial because they give insight into the professional world. They make you fit for your career. So doing an internship in your initial college years is also beneficial for your CV.
What is the importance of a stipend in an internship?
My internship at RBI was a paid internship. At RBI, they have criteria for the payment of stipends. They pay the stipend depending on your profile. I wasn’t expecting a stipend but eventually, I knew I would be getting a stipend. In general, an internship should not be done solely to get a stipend but to gain knowledge and experience.
What skills are important to get such a role?
For any professional tenure, skillsets are very important. When a company comes to hire, they judge your skills and knowledge. They want a ready-made corporate guy whom they can hire. They will give him some training and expect him to be ready for the role. Also, good analytical and technical skills are very important for any internship.
Please share any advice for others who are looking out for internships.
Internships are an incredible learning journey. It helps you prepare for your professional career. They are beneficial for brushing up your hard skills and soft skills like communication, presentation, and analytical skills. One should start as early as possible so that by the time you graduate, your CV will carry a weight that will set you apart from the crowd.