Interview with Cyrus Motashaw, TYBMS Sem 5 Topper 2014-15, Lala Lajpatrai College

Name – Cyrus Motashaw

College Name – Lala Lajpatrai College of Commerce and Economics

Course Name – BMS

Rank in TY Sem V : 1

GPA / Percentage: 7/80.57

1) Tell us about yourself?

I am an easy going guy, with an interest in sport, business, and the law. Took up BMS as it would teach me more about the corporate sector while also allowing me to work and gain practical experience since it isn’t demanding.

Now plan to pursue law at Oxford University and then build a career in international corporate law, start my own business, work for the UN, etc.

2) How does it feel to be a Topper of the college in TY Sem V exams? 

Definitely feels good, but at the same time it makes you realize that marks are not everything.

3) Whom will you credit your success to? 

All my teachers, and equally as important are my fellow students. They have a tendency to ask me their doubts, so this allows me to explore more about the subjects and truly understand them.

4) Did you start preparing from the first day of your TY Sem V? 

I count my lectures as preparing so technically you could say yes, though practically there is no need for this. The portion is not challenging enough to warrant such preparation.

5) How did you study for Sem V? 

Nothing special per se, I make it a point to attend almost all lectures so that I understand the topic in class itself. That leaves me free to do whatever I enjoy the rest of the time. Exam preparation usually begins about three weeks in advance, where I make my own notes for all the subjects.

6) Which are the easy subjects in Sem V?

All are easy, though Financial Management and Special Studies in Finance may not be for those without any math/accounting knowledge

7) Any special way of writing the answers? Do you write answers in bullet points or in paragraphs?

Bullet points definitely, makes it easier for the examiner as he does not have to delve into a paper by showing him you know the main points. Also end up underlining/boxing key parts of the answer.

8) How do you crack case studies in theory and practical subjects?

Case studies in BMS are case studies in name only. They are most of the time a simple representation of the theory. Even those without a good understanding of the subject as a whole can answer these. Its a simple matter of relating the theory to the relevant parts in the case.

9) Did you draw any diagram in any paper? Is it mandatory? Does it help to get more marks?

Yes I did make it a point to draw diagrams wherever possible. It isn’t mandatory but definitely helps get more marks.

10)Any specific study pattern adopted i.e. timetable / how many hours per subject per day etc.?

No specific time based pattern. I simply make my own notes for each subject when the exams are about 3 weeks away. Finish them one subject at a time.

11) How do you fight against mood swings and distractions during exam preparation?

Definitely all of us suffer from mood swings and distractions, but I simply will myself to finish what work I have set aside for myself or that day. Just do not sleep till it is done.

12) If you are made the Vice Chancellor of Mumbai University, what changes would you like to initiate in Indian education system?

Encourage holistic development of the student. Rather than focus on mindless theory, turn all courses into application-based learning courses. Encourage projects and research into topics relevant to coursework. Put in subjects that add value to a student’s career. There should be a definite link between your education and your work. Most important is to teach students how to think, rather than have them learn without thinking. That empowers them and creates adaptable minds that will excel in any situation.

13) Many students prepare sincerely but constantly live under fear that they are not from big college / not from English medium and eventually lose confidence. What message would you like to these students?

Believe in yourself, more than anything. Believe you can do something you set out to achieve.

Many students coming from such backgrounds lack self-belief and are often insecure. In that case, I always tell people to believe in their work. A person may or may not believe they themselves are smart, but if the answer that they put down is right or the work they do is good, they will find success.

  14) Through this struggle and success, what have you learned? What is the wisdom of life and competition? 

Consistency is key, in any field, any path of life. If you want to be the greatest you have to be consistent.

15) Your feedback/suggestions for BMS.co.in?

Great site, useful for soothing the nerves of multitudes of students before exams with needed information, important questions, etc.