PWC- Tax and Regulatory Services
Name: Aviral Chaurasia
Q. In which company have you been placed in? Please describe your job role.
>> I’ve been currently placed in PwC India in the Tax and Regulatory Services (TRS) that involves managing contract and compliance matters. You oversee the entire contract lifecycle, utilizing a range of technologies. Your responsibilities include ensuring legal compliance, negotiating contracts, monitoring performance, and maintaining accurate records. By efficiently handling contracts, you contribute to the smooth functioning of business operations and mitigate risks.
Q. Which clubs and societies were you a part of and how did they help you?
>> During my first two years of college, I actively participated in several clubs and societies, each contributing to my personal and professional growth:
Fine Art Society: As a member of this society, I honed my artistic skills, explored various mediums, and learned about art history. It allowed me to express my creativity freely and connect with fellow art enthusiasts.
Photography Club: Being part of the photography club exposed me to the technical aspects of photography, composition, and storytelling through images. I gained practical experience, improved my visual eye, and developed an appreciation for capturing moments.
Rotaract Club: Joining the Rotaract Club provided me with opportunities for community service, leadership, and networking. I actively participated in social initiatives, fundraisers, and collaborated with like-minded peers to make a positive impact.
EEESoc (Electrical and Electronics Engineering Society): As an engineering student, this society allowed me to delve deeper into my field. I attended workshops, seminars, and technical sessions, enhancing my knowledge and connecting with professionals in the industry.
Literary Society: This club fueled my passion for writing and speaking. I engaged in literary discussions and was head of Video editing and even tried my hand at creative writing. It improved my communication skills and boosted my confidence.
Q.What are the technical skills that are important for EEE graduates?
>> The skills you need to acquire depends on the domain you’re targeting. For Software domain, obviously, you must be good at coding, especially the DSA part. For Core Electrical or Electronics domain, you must have a sound knowledge of hardware and operating debugging tools viz. multimeter, oscilloscope, etc. along with some basic knowledge of commonly used microprocessors and microcontrollers. For consultancy part, you must be able to properly analyse the Case Studies and innovate and suggest the best possible and optimal solution for the problems raised.
Q. When and how did you decide between core, software and consultancy job? Also mention the ideal time to choose among these?
>> Although “it’s never too late to give up what you’re doing and start doing what you love,” I’d suggest to intensively research and explore all the available options open for you before landing up to the final decision. By the end of 2nd year, you should have the clarity on this matter.
Q. How can one use time effectively and manage their time between academics, extracurricular activities (along with projects, learning job based skills) and social life?
>> The key is to prioritise your work in accordance with the academic calendar. If there is time between quizzes, one should concentrate on the project. Once the quizzes are a few days away, one should begin concentrating on academic studies but one must focus on classroom lecture.
Q. How much CGPA should one maintain in order to be allowed to sit in an interview for any core company?
>> To be eligible for interviews at most core companies, maintaining a CGPA between 7.5 and 8 is generally considered favourable. This range enhances your chances of meeting the academic criteria set by many companies. However, it’s important to recognise that specific CGPA requirements can vary among companies, and factors beyond academic performance, such as relevant skills and experiences, may also influence eligibility for interviews.
Q. Where did you pursue your internship? Is it necessary to have internships for good placement?
>> Internships are a significant aspect of a student’s professional development, offering practical experience and industry exposure. My internship at Powergrid Corporation of India Ltd was an enriching experience where I witnessed the application of electrical concepts, ranging from basic to advanced, in real-life scenarios. This hands-on experience not only solidified my theoretical knowledge but also provided me with a deeper understanding of the industry’s workings.
While internships are not the sole determinant of securing a good placement, they certainly enhance a candidate’s profile. They demonstrate initiative, a willingness to learn, and the ability to apply academic knowledge in practical settings. Moreover, internships can often lead to professional networking opportunities that may prove beneficial during job placements. Therefore, while not mandatory, internships are highly recommended for those seeking to strengthen their employability in the competitive job market.
Q. What other activities, except academic studies, did you engage in during 4 years of B.tech (including projects) and how did they help in your placement and internship?
>> During my first and second years of B.Tech, I was heavily involved in various extracurricular activities such as organising teams of Bitotsav and Pantheon, participating in cultural clubs, and engaging in other non-academic pursuits. While these activities were enjoyable and provided me with valuable experiences, I realised later on that I had not optimised my time effectively. Instead of focusing on upskilling in areas relevant to my career goals, I spread myself too thin across activities that were not directly related to my future aspirations. This oversight limited my exploration of potential career paths and delayed the discovery of my true interests.
Q. What was the selection procedure of your company? How did you prepare for it and what was the toughest part of the interview?
>> The selection procedure comprised three distinct stages:
Resume Screening: The initial phase involved a thorough review of my resume. The interviewer engaged me in a detailed discussion about my academic achievements and co-curricular activities, providing insights into my educational background.
Aptitude and Skills Assessment: The second stage centered around basic aptitude questions and a deep dive into my project portfolio. I was presented with practical scenarios tailored to my skill set, challenging me to demonstrate the application of my knowledge in real-world situations. This round was particularly rigorous and demanded a high level of engagement.
HR Evaluation: The final stage was the HR round, focusing on standard HR inquiries. This round aimed to assess my fit within the company’s culture and my potential contributions to the team.
This structured approach provided a comprehensive evaluation of my capabilities and alignment with the company’s objectives.
Q. If we don’t get placed in the right company according to our aspirations, then what should we do?
>> If you find yourself not placed in a company that matches your aspirations, it’s an opportunity to reassess and recalibrate your career trajectory. Reflecting on what drew you to your ideal company can provide clarity — whether it’s the prestige, the role, or the industry itself. This reflection can guide you to similar opportunities that may have been overlooked initially. Enhancing your skills through further education or certifications can also improve your prospects. Networking remains a key strategy; it can lead to unexpected opportunities and provide insights into various roles and organizational cultures. If you can, seek feedback from your interviews to refine your approach for future opportunities. Above all, maintaining a positive outlook is essential. Each interview is a learning experience, and with persistence, you will find a position that aligns with your career goals.
Q. What are your future plans?
>> My future plans involve gaining practical experience by working in the company where I’ve been placed for a few years. Following this period of professional growth, I intend to pursue an MBA to further develop my skills and knowledge. Ultimately, I aim to return to the consultancy field at an advanced position.
Q. What would be your message/advice for your juniors in different years respectively?
>> For those in their first year, I’d emphasize the importance of building a strong foundation. Dive into your coursework with curiosity and don’t hesitate to seek clarification on fundamental concepts, as these will be the building blocks for your future studies.
Second-year students should start exploring their interests within the field. This is the time to join clubs, participate in workshops, and consider what specializations might align with your passions and career goals.
In the third year, practical application becomes key. Engage in projects and internships that allow you to apply theoretical knowledge. This hands-on experience is invaluable and will significantly enhance your understanding and skills.
Finally, for those in their final year, focus on the horizon. Begin networking with professionals, attend job fairs, and prepare for the transition from academia to industry. Remember, your degree is a powerful tool — use it to open doors to a fulfilling career.