Suyash Waghmare – Aurum PropTech

Introduction

Hey there, I’m Suyash Waghmare, a third-year BS Economics student from Sambhajinagar (formerly Aurangabad), Maharashtra.

The Internship Hunt

As the third semester ended, I found myself in the murky waters of the internship hunt. I was still determining where to begin and which field to explore. The process seemed daunting; I wondered how anyone could entrust me with essential tasks when I could barely manage my sleep schedule.

Getting an internship appeared challenging at first. I couldn’t help but wonder how my seniors landed such opportunities. But I crafted a so-so resume, started sending applications, and began building a database. The process was exhausting, sending countless emails hoping for a reply.

Strangely, I even found solace in rejection emails – at least they acknowledged my existence. I went home during winter break and focused on projects with a particular emphasis on analytics. Upon returning to campus, the fourth semester kicked off. To my dismay, I had missed the chance for international university internships. Business schools remained unresponsive, and I considered giving up altogether. Given the historical statistics and senior recommendations, I had little hope through PT cell for a second-year student like me.

The Unexpected Opportunity

But why not give it a shot? Just when I thought the ship had sailed, Aurum Proptech arrived in February. While it had already been announced in winter, it was now open to second-year students. I applied with hope and doubt, knowing the slim chances. This time, the application process took a different path with an assignment-based round.

Assignment-based rounds presented an intriguing challenge. I prepared a presentation, trying to make it as compelling as possible. The assignment was a deep dive into business analysis, which I had already explored extensively due to my keen interest in finance. It wasn’t insurmountable, but “thorough analysis” is open to personal interpretation.

The Interview

I turned to my seniors for recommendations on preparing for interviews, reviewed my resume, and took a deep breath as I sat for the interview.

The interview was brief, touching upon introductions and generalities before diving into the heart of the matter: the assignment and my insights. In just under 10 minutes, I transitioned to the HR round. This 15-minute discussion delved into the company, the work I would be doing, and my research. Having extensively researched the company, I navigated this phase with confidence.

The Internship Experience

Moving on to the internship, I quickly realized that navigating the local trains to Ghansoli (Navi Mumbai) during the scorching summer was daunting. I rented a PG within the township, even though it was a tad pricey. The convenience and view was worth every penny.

My work hours were a delight, beginning around 9:30-10:30 and concluding at around 7. The company provided lunch and tea breaks, dinner was arranged specifically for me thanks to my manager, adding to the overall positive experience.

The Work

As a Business Analyst, my role revolved around comprehending India’s Proptech sector. The first project focused on compiling a comprehensive site for the property sector. At the same time, the second was a more niche property sale platform (NDA).

My responsibilities ranged from designing sitemaps to defining revenue streams, crafting the entire business plan, and developing go-to-market strategies. Microsoft Office is the go-to tool, but the real effort lies in dissecting the intricate landscape and understanding the needs of all parties involved in various transactions. Good business acumen.

With both projects completed ahead of schedule, I had some free time. The executive director directed me to explore the securities market – a delightful tangent that piqued my interest. I devised a securitization model to enhance liquidity in the Indian real estate market, preparing a comprehensive presentation and underwriting numerous properties. The final project was a canvas entirely in my hands, allowing me to shine.

The Culture

The office was located in Ghansoli, Navi Mumbai, where time drifts slightly slower than bustling Mumbai. The workplace was dynamic, with a youthful workforce led by experienced seniors. I vividly remember my manager (an alum) guiding me to explore the entire floor, learn the ropes, and understand how things functioned.

The Unforgettable Moments

Interacting with various teams, setting up meetings to comprehend their work dynamics, and adapting strategies based on their experiences added depth to my internship. The youthful spirit in the office was contagious. Coffee and tea breaks became the perfect occasions to forge connections and create lasting memories.

Beyond the office, I embarked on adventures in Navi Mumbai, going bowling after hours, exploring sunset points with amazing people, and enjoying barbecues at colleagues’ homes on Saturdays. Playing Among Us during breaks and discovering hidden terraces for breathtaking sunset views became cherished rituals.

A highlight was the annual Aurum Bash, a company fest that took us to Alibaug (Kashid, to be precise) for two days of pure revelry. Initially off-limits to interns, some charm and persuasion worked wonders.

In conclusion, my internship was a delightful blend of fun, overall development, and lasting memories.

A Word of Advice

As I wrap up my tale, I want to share some advice. Don’t lose heart if it seems like everyone around you is landing internships left and right. There’s no rush to jump into things just because others suggest it. In the fast-paced world of an IIT student in Mumbai, it’s essential to take your time, explore your options, reach out to people, and, most importantly, reach out to yourself. Slow down, savor the small moments, set your targets, and then take each step purposefully. Enjoy the journey!