The Journey to HUL - Insights from a Loreto Economics Graduate

On April 22, 2024, the students of the Department of Economics, Loreto College, Kolkata attended a talk titled “The Journey to HUL: Insights from a Loreto Economics Graduate,” organised by the Department of Economics in collaboration with the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC). The speaker was Ms. Sohini Basu, Area Sales and Customer Manager, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL), who is also an alumna of the department. The session provided a comprehensive exploration of the transition from academia to corporate life, focusing on adaptability and ambition.

The speaker commenced her talk by emphasising the importance of balancing academic pursuits and competitive examinations and underlining the significance of clarity in students’ goals. She shared her journey from her undergraduate studies in Loreto College to her present position, highlighting the pivotal role that clarity of ideas played in navigating her career choices. Transitioning from academia to corporate life, Ms. Basu shared her experiences at JP Morgan, where she honed her skills in investment banking. She also spoke of the unexpected turn that her career trajectory took when she made the bold decision to transition to HUL, a renowned consumer goods company.

During her address, the speaker discussed the significance of adaptability in life’s journey. Despite the stark contrast between the corporate environment of her previous work experience and the grassroots-level operations at HUL, she demonstrated how her adaptability and strategic acumen enabled her to thrive in her new role. Thus, the focus of the talk was the importance of a student’s ability to navigate diverse career paths with confidence and grace, underscoring the transformative power of seizing new opportunities and the value of adaptability in overcoming challenges.

The event concluded with an interactive session, allowing students to pose their queries and seek advice on career transitions, personal development, and strategies for success in the corporate world. Ms. Basu’s story inspired students, motivating them to embrace new opportunities and confidently navigate their career paths.