The life of a student at one of India’s premier business schools—Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB)—is anything but ordinary. It’s a fine balance between academic rigor, personal growth, and discovering oneself amid deadlines, debates, friendships, and food. As a final-year MBA student at IIMB, I’ve come to embrace the unpredictable nature of this journey. Each day unfolds a new challenge, a different learning, and an opportunity to grow. Let me take you through what a typical day looks like in the life of a student here at IIM Bangalore.
The Architectural Marvel That Feels Like Home
Before diving into the routine, it’s impossible to talk about the life of a student at IIM Bangalore without mentioning the brilliance of the campus itself. Designed by B.V. Doshi—a Pritzker Prize-winning architect—the campus is a visual and functional masterpiece.
Every corridor, classroom, and hostel has been meticulously planned to allow natural ventilation, making life here comfortable throughout the year. The unique layout connects different blocks via open-air hallways, encouraging social interaction and spontaneous conversations. The lush greenery across the campus not only enhances the aesthetics but also moderates the otherwise warm Bangalore climate, which can reach highs of 35°C.You’re bound to meet someone familiar every time you step out of your room—and that’s part of what makes the life of a student at IIMB so enriching.
Mornings: Racing Against Time
A typical day in the life of a student begins around 9:15 AM. Yes, that’s quite late by most standards, but with the first class starting at 10:00 AM, I still have time to grab a quick breakfast. The student mess is the heart of the morning buzz. Although it offers a wide variety of dishes, my go-to is usually a glass of milk paired with idli or dosa—simple, traditional South Indian fare.
One thing I’ve learned the hard way is the importance of punctuality. Classes are tracked using RFID cards, and being even a second late could mean losing your attendance for the session. This has led to more than a few 100-meter sprints from my hostel to the lecture halls—an essential part of the life of a student here!
Academic Rigor Before Lunch
The academic grind begins with two back-to-back classes, each lasting an hour and a half. Depending on the term, we study everything from financial modeling to marketing strategies and behavioral economics. Professors here demand attention and participation, keeping the atmosphere lively and intellectually stimulating.
By the time the second class wraps up, hunger and mental fatigue set in. I make my way to the mess again, but this time it’s a more relaxed affair. Most of us prefer sitting outside, under the clear Bangalore skies and gentle breeze, enjoying both the food and the conversation. It’s these little moments that add charm to the life of a student.
Afternoon Break: The Midday Recharge
Post-lunch is usually siesta time. A short nap helps recharge for the rest of the day. During this short downtime, I resist the urge to over-plan. This relaxed pocket of the day serves as a mental reset.That said, the life of a student rarely follows a fixed schedule. Sometimes, there are surprise assignment announcements or urgent project meetings that can disrupt even the most peaceful siesta.
Evening: Where the Real Action Happens
If there’s one part of the day that I feel the most alive and productive, it’s the evening. After waking up from the nap, I attend another round of classes. This term, I’ve opted for strategy-focused electives, which are both demanding and discussion-heavy. Preparing for these requires going through bulky case studies, often running into dozens of pages. Your voice in class counts, so everyone makes it a point to be well-prepared.
Once classes are done, I head over to one of the campus cafes or the canteen for a fresh juice and a quick bite. These informal sessions with classmates often turn into brainstorming meetings or post-class debates, making the life of a student feel like a never-ending intellectual pursuit.
Keeping Fit: Physical Health, Mental Strength
Maintaining physical fitness is crucial in the life of a student, especially in such a high-pressure environment. Every evening, I either hit the gym or play lawn tennis. It’s not just about staying fit—it’s an emotional outlet. After a day packed with numbers, charts, and presentations, a good workout feels therapeutic.It also helps me sleep better at night, which, in the life of a student, is a luxury that’s often in short supply.
Dinner and Conversations
After a quick shower post-exercise, dinner is the next stop. This is the most social part of the day. It’s when friends from different streams catch up, gossip, or vent about tough assignments. Right now, with the Cricket World Cup in full swing, dinner conversations are dominated by match updates and team performances.Dinner often extends into a winding trail of late-night walks around campus. These are the times when some of the most profound conversations happen.
Late Nights: The Power of Group Projects and Deep Work
The life of a student at IIM Bangalore revolves heavily around group projects. These are not just assignments; they’re real-world simulations. Collaborating with people from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds teaches valuable lessons in negotiation, leadership, and teamwork.
When deadlines approach, it’s common for our project group to stay up until 5 AM or 6 AM, fine-tuning every slide and spreadsheet. Though exhausting, these late-night marathons are often the moments that turn acquaintances into lifelong friends.
On less hectic nights, I unwind by solving Sudoku puzzles or catching up on global affairs through The Economist or Financial Times. Despite being a business student, I find international politics deeply fascinating. It broadens your perspective—an underrated but essential aspect of the life of a student.
Weekend Vibes: More Than Just a Break
Weekends at IIMB are anything but monotonous. With over 30 clubs and societies, there’s always something happening—be it cultural events, competitions, or workshops. Living in Bangalore has its perks too; with its vibrant nightlife and café culture, weekends become an exciting escape from routine.
In my case, weekends are reserved for sports like squash and table tennis, swimming sessions, and indulging in non-academic reading. Whether it’s a fiction novel or a thought-provoking essay, reading helps me slow down and reflect—a rare but necessary luxury in the life of a student.
Finding Calm Amid Chaos
If there’s one emotion that constantly shadows the life of a student here, it’s FOMO—the Fear Of Missing Out. Initially, I tried to attend every event, join every club, and say yes to every opportunity. But over time, I realized that it’s okay to slow down.
Nowadays, I often go for evening strolls or late-night bike rides around campus to clear my head. The serene environment and cool breeze do wonders for mental clarity. I’ve become more grateful for the journey I’m on and the incredible people I share it with.
Conclusion: Embracing the Chaos
The life of a student at IIM Bangalore is a whirlwind—an unpredictable blend of academics, friendships, deadlines, and discoveries. There’s no such thing as a ‘typical’ day. Each morning starts with a plan, but the beauty lies in how you adapt and evolve with the flow.
From architectural brilliance and academic excellence to sports, friendships, and self-discovery, the life of a student here is not just about earning an MBA—it’s about becoming a more well-rounded individual. And while the days may seem long and nights even longer, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything else.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the daily routine like in the life of a student at IIM Bangalore?
A: The day typically starts with a 10 AM class, includes several lectures, meals at the mess, physical activity, group projects, and late-night study or prep sessions.
Q2. How important is fitness in the life of a student at a business school?
A: Very important. Physical activity such as gym, tennis, squash, or swimming helps students manage stress and stay focused.
Q3. Is there any free time in the life of a student at IIMB?
A: Yes, but it’s limited and often comes late at night or on weekends. Students learn to use it wisely for relaxation or personal pursuits.
Q4. What makes IIM Bangalore campus unique?
A: Designed by renowned architect B.V. Doshi, the campus features natural ventilation, green surroundings, and a layout that fosters community interaction.
Q5. How do students manage group projects and academics together?
A: Efficient time management, open communication, and collaboration are key. Many groups work late into the night to meet deadlines effectively.
Q6. What role does extracurricular activity play in the life of a student at IIMB?
A: A major one. Clubs and events provide essential learning outside the classroom and offer breaks from academic pressure.