From Merchant Navy to ISB: Sarthak’s ISB Admit Journey with GOALisB
- Goalisb
- Apr 28
- 18 min read
The Indian School of Business (ISB) stands as a beacon of excellence in global management education, attracting ambitious professionals seeking a transformative one-year MBA experience. The ISB admission process represents a unique intersection of rigorous academic standards and holistic evaluation, designed to identify future business leaders who can thrive in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
Headed for an MBA at ISB Hyderabad, marks a transformative moment in a professional's career. This story of Mr. Sarthak Rastogi, a merchant navy professional who worked with GOALisB ISB admission consultant unravels the journey of an individual whose career began on the high seas and transitioned into the esteemed corridors of ISB. It highlights resilience, strategic foresight, and the crucial role of personalized guidance in navigating the ISB admission process.
Table of Contents
Why do working professionals from technical fields pursue an MBA from ISB?
What kind of professional experience is valued in ISB PGP admissions?
When should you consider pursuing an MBA to transition into business leadership?
How challenging is GMAT preparation for ISB applicants with full-time jobs?
How do candidates improve their GMAT scores after an initial setback?
What challenges can occur during the ISB interview, and how should candidates handle them?
How can choosing the right ISB admission consultant impact your MBA application?
What practical advice can help future ISB aspirants succeed?
Why do working professionals from technical fields pursue an MBA from ISB?
At GOALisB, we are privileged to work with candidates from diverse professional backgrounds, each bringing a unique story of ambition and transition. Sarthak Rastogi’s journey stood out — a seasoned Merchant Navy professional who decided to pivot from commanding ships to leading businesses.
After six years navigating global waters, managing vessel operations, and leading multicultural teams, Sarthak realized he wanted to move beyond operational execution. He aspired to shape strategies, drive business transformations, and expand his leadership impact onshore.
This realization sparked his decision to pursue an MBA, and specifically, the prestigious ISB PGP program — a platform that could bridge his operational expertise with strategic business leadership.
What followed was a journey marked by deep introspection, relentless preparation, and authentic storytelling — from preparing for the GMAT, crafting compelling ISB essays, navigating the ISB admission process, and acing the ISB interview.
In this story, we share how Sarthak’s unwavering focus, combined with GOALisB’s structured guidance, helped him transform his aspirations into an ISB admit — and how future ISB aspirants can draw lessons from his experience.
What kind of professional experience is valued in ISB PGP admissions?
Sarthak's professional journey began at the prestigious Tani Maritime Institute, where he pursued a B. Tech in Nautical Technology. Post-graduation, he joined MK Line, one of the global leaders in container shipping, embarking on a demanding yet rewarding career at sea.
Starting as a cadet, he quickly progressed through the ranks, becoming a licensed Navigating Officer certified by the Government of India. Over the next six years, he served as a Third Officer and later as a Second Mate, leading navigation operations, managing cargo systems, enforcing international compliance, and mentoring diverse crews across voyages.
Life at sea taught Sarthak critical lessons: decision-making under pressure, operational excellence, crisis management, and cross-cultural leadership. However, amidst the vast oceans and dynamic logistics chains he witnessed, a deeper realization emerged — while he was executing complex operations, he wasn’t influencing strategic decisions.
It was during those long voyages, in reflective moments on the bridge, that Sarthak decided he wanted to expand his role from operational command to business leadership. To achieve that pivot, he recognized the need for a transformative business education — one that would empower him with managerial skills, strategic vision, and global business perspectives.
The ISB PGP quickly surfaced as the ideal fit — a program renowned for nurturing experienced professionals into future leaders, offering global exposure while being rooted in India's dynamic economic landscape.
When should you consider pursuing an MBA to transition into business leadership?
While Sarthak thrived in the operational complexity of the Merchant Navy, he increasingly sensed the limitations of his role. His responsibilities — though critical — remained tactical. The decisions that shaped shipping routes, supply chain strategies, business expansions, and organizational growth were made elsewhere — at corporate headquarters, by leaders with a broader managerial lens.
This growing awareness led Sarthak to reflect deeply on his career aspirations. He realized that to transition from managing ships to leading businesses, he needed to develop a new set of capabilities: strategic thinking, financial acumen, leadership across business functions, and a global understanding of operations and supply chains.
Moreover, Sarthak recognized that in a world of rapid digitalization and global interconnectedness, leadership in logistics and supply chain demanded far more than technical expertise. It required the ability to navigate markets, manage cross-functional teams, drive innovation, and think entrepreneurially.
An MBA was no longer just an academic pursuit for him; it was a necessary catalyst for the next phase of his career. It represented the bridge between operational mastery and business leadership.
At GOALisB, we often observe this pivotal realization among career professionals: the moment when ambition aligns with purpose, and the journey toward a top MBA begins in earnest. For Sarthak, that clarity fueled his decision to target India's premier business schools, with the ISB PGP program firmly at the top of his list.
He sought an MBA program that would not only provide academic rigor but also a platform to network with India's brightest minds, interact with global faculty, and gain opportunities that matched his evolving vision. ISB offered exactly that — a one-year, intensive transformation for mid-career professionals ready to lead at the highest levels.
The next step, however, would require overcoming a significant hurdle: the GMAT.
Why choose ISB PGP over international MBA programs?
When Sarthak began exploring MBA options, his initial instinct was to cast a wide net, considering programs both in India and abroad. Top international MBAs had their appeal — global exposure, multinational cohorts, and brand prestige. However, a closer analysis of his goals, coupled with practical factors, pointed strongly toward India, and specifically, toward the ISB PGP.
At GOALisB, we encourage applicants to go beyond rankings and glossy brochures when evaluating programs. It's about fit — matching aspirations, backgrounds, and career trajectories with what a business school truly offers.
For Sarthak, multiple factors made ISB the perfect fit:
One-Year Format: With nearly six years of work experience, Sarthak was at the ideal stage for a one-year accelerated MBA, where he could minimize opportunity cost while maximizing career momentum.
Peer Learning: ISB PGP’s cohort — composed of accomplished professionals across industries — promised not just academic growth but invaluable peer-to-peer learning and network building.
Curriculum and Faculty: The rigor of ISB's curriculum, combined with visiting faculty from global schools like Wharton, Kellogg, and LBS, matched the best international standards.
Career Opportunities: ISB’s robust placement support, strong corporate connects in India’s booming economy, and its focus on leadership roles in consulting, technology, supply chain, and entrepreneurship aligned perfectly with Sarthak’s career goals.
Global Mobility: While ISB is based in India, the brand enjoys strong recognition abroad, offering international mobility after gaining leadership experience domestically — an important future consideration for Sarthak.
Choosing ISB also reflected a strategic understanding: India’s economy was in a high-growth phase, offering opportunities across sectors like logistics, tech-enabled supply chains, consulting, and infrastructure. An MBA from ISB positioned Sarthak at the heart of this opportunity wave.
Moreover, the ISB admission process — with its emphasis on holistic evaluation rather than just GMAT scores — offered candidates like Sarthak, with rich operational leadership backgrounds, a platform to shine beyond test metrics.
With the decision made, Sarthak set his sights on navigating the ISB admission process. But first, he needed to cross the formidable hurdle that often defines the MBA journey: the GMAT.
How challenging is GMAT preparation for ISB applicants with full-time jobs?
While Sarthak had clarity on why he wanted an MBA and why the ISB PGP was the right program, the path ahead was not without challenges. The first major hurdle was preparing for the GMAT — a test he had initially hoped to avoid altogether.
At GOALisB, we frequently see talented professionals hesitate before committing to standardized test preparation, especially after years away from an academic environment. For Sarthak, the reluctance was understandable. Between the demanding life onboard ships and his professional commitments, finding structured time to prepare for the GMAT seemed daunting.
Initially, Sarthak explored alternate routes — looking for MBA programs that didn’t require entrance exams. However, as he delved deeper, he realized that the quality of programs without GMAT or GRE requirements often did not match his ambitions. None of them compared to the standards of ISB or other premier institutions.
Determined not to compromise on his aspirations, Sarthak decided to face the challenge head-on.
His first phase of preparation was entirely self-driven. He purchased the Official Guide (OG) materials, watched countless YouTube tutorials, and practiced diligently between his professional assignments. Despite the erratic schedules and connectivity issues at sea, he managed to squeeze in practice sessions, review error logs, and attempt mock tests.
In his initial mock exams, Sarthak consistently scored around 700 — a respectable range, but he aspired to strengthen his candidacy further.
Unfortunately, when he appeared for his first actual GMAT attempt, the score fell short of his expectations.
It was a tough moment — but at GOALisB, we know that a temporary setback often sets the stage for a stronger comeback. Rather than dwelling on disappointment, Sarthak made a quick, strategic decision: he would regroup, rebuild, and retake the GMAT within the next six weeks.
This time, he sought structured support. Enrolling in a focused online coaching program, Sarthak sharpened his Verbal skills — an area he realized needed extra attention. His Quant fundamentals were strong thanks to his technical background, but refining critical reasoning, sentence correction, and reading comprehension became the new priority.
The preparation wasn’t just about mastering the content; it was about overcoming mental barriers. After years away from academics, getting back into the rhythm of timed problem-solving required a mindset shift.Regular mocks, daily study discipline, and structured feedback loops gradually rebuilt his confidence.
At GOALisB, we often emphasize that GMAT preparation is as much a test of mental resilience as it is of skill. Sarthak’s experience was a perfect example: setbacks were temporary, but perseverance was non-negotiable.
Armed with better preparation and renewed confidence, he was ready to tackle the next attempt — this time with a stronger story to tell, both on his application and within himself.
How do candidates improve their GMAT scores after an initial setback?
After his initial GMAT setback, Sarthak knew that mere incremental improvements wouldn’t be enough. What he needed was a structured, targeted strategy — and more importantly, a renewed belief in his own potential.
At GOALisB, we often counsel applicants that the GMAT, much like the MBA journey itself, tests not just aptitude but adaptability. Sarthak embodied this perfectly.
Recognizing the gaps in his earlier preparation, Sarthak enrolled in a focused Verbal coaching program to sharpen his critical reasoning and comprehension skills — the sections that had impacted his first attempt. With his Quant foundations already strong, this tailored focus made his study sessions more efficient and impactful.
But beyond the academic strategy, what changed was his mindset.
For many working professionals, returning to rigorous study after years of corporate or operational experience can be disorienting. Sarthak experienced this first-hand. Initially, even basic Quant problems felt unfamiliar — a stark contrast to the precision he demonstrated daily at sea. But instead of getting disheartened, he treated it as muscle memory that needed reactivation.
He developed a disciplined schedule: daily study blocks, consistent mock testing, analysis of errors, and deliberate practice. Every mistake became a learning opportunity.Every mock became not just a score, but a diagnostic tool for refinement.
Importantly, Sarthak understood that flow mattered. Taking long breaks disrupted momentum; sustained practice over days and weeks helped him build exam stamina and mental agility.
Within a few weeks, noticeable improvement emerged — not just in his scores but in his confidence. He approached the second GMAT attempt not as a desperate shot at redemption, but as a well-planned mission.
At GOALisB, we saw how this phase of Sarthak’s journey — facing adversity with structured resilience — would later become one of the strongest narratives in his ISB essays and ISB interview. It wasn't just about "retaking" the GMAT; it was about demonstrating the very qualities ISB values: perseverance, self-awareness, and strategic execution.
With a renewed GMAT score and a stronger personal story, Sarthak was now ready to tackle the next critical stage: building a compelling application for the ISB PGP.
How important is storytelling in ISB application essays?
Through structured introspection and multiple rounds of guided refinement with GOALisB, Sarthak was able to craft ISB essays that truly reflected his leadership journey and future aspirations.
The process was not about over-engineering the narrative or fitting into a stereotypical mold. Instead, it was about highlighting his authentic strengths, addressing challenges with maturity, and demonstrating clarity of purpose — exactly the qualities ISB looks for in its PGP cohort.
Working together, we ensured that every story Sarthak shared was relevant, impactful, and woven into a cohesive personal brand.
The result was a set of ISB essays that didn't just "answer the questions," but told a story that was uniquely his — a story that would later resonate strongly during his ISB interview as well.
At GOALisB, we believe that the best applications come not from fabricated perfection, but from guided authenticity — a principle that shaped Sarthak’s successful ISB PGP journey.
What lessons help craft strong ISB essays?
As Sarthak progressed through the ISB application journey, it became increasingly clear that strong essays were not just a requirement — they were an opportunity to stand out.
At GOALisB, we guided Sarthak through a structured, introspective process that helped him unlock and articulate the leadership experiences, resilience, and future aspirations embedded within his unique career story.
Rather than attempting to project a "perfect candidate" image, the focus was on crafting essays that reflected authentic self-awareness, purposeful career goals, and a strong fit with the ISB PGP experience.
Each essay was refined to ensure:
Clarity — avoiding jargon and complexity, speaking directly to the admissions committee.
Cohesion — aligning every story and example to a broader leadership narrative.
Credibility — grounding claims in real, demonstrable experiences.
Importantly, Sarthak was able to showcase not just what he had done, but how those experiences shaped his leadership style and why the ISB PGP was the logical next step.
The process demanded time, reflection, and precision — but it also built immense confidence. By the time his essays were submitted, Sarthak wasn’t merely presenting an application; he was presenting a coherent, authentic story of professional evolution and leadership ambition.
This authenticity would later become the cornerstone of his success during the ISB interview, where his ability to speak naturally and convincingly about his journey made a strong impression.
At GOALisB, we believe that great applications don’t just answer essay prompts — they tell compelling stories that leave no doubt about a candidate’s readiness for the transformational experience that ISB offers.
How should applicants prepare for the ISB interview?
Once the ISB application was submitted, Sarthak understood that the journey was far from over. The ISB interview — often the final and most decisive component of the ISB admission process — demanded its own level of strategy, preparation, and presence.
At GOALisB, we emphasize that interview preparation is not about memorizing rehearsed answers. It's about building genuine confidence, strategic clarity, and authentic storytelling — skills that Sarthak developed through a rigorous, personalized interview preparation plan.
Rather than waiting for the interview call, Sarthak began preparation proactively, working closely with GOALisB to build readiness across multiple dimensions:
Foundation Building: Sarthak first tackled fundamental ISB interview questions: Why MBA? Why ISB? Why now? What are your short-term and long-term goals? How does your leadership experience differentiate you?
Personalization: Every answer was carefully aligned with the stories he had articulated in his essays — ensuring coherence between his written application and verbal responses.
Feedback Loops: After each mock interview, GOALisB provided Sarthak with critical, actionable feedback — focusing not just on content gaps, but also delivery style, body language, and emotional conviction.
Unlimited Practice: Recognizing that confidence builds through repetition, GOALisB offered Sarthak unlimited mock interviews — adapting to his schedules, overcoming logistical challenges like poor internet connectivity at sea, and maintaining momentum despite disruptions.
As Sarthak progressed through the preparation, he noticed a significant transformation. Early mock sessions revealed hesitations — answers that lacked conviction, pauses that reflected uncertainty. But with every iteration, with every piece of feedback internalized, his delivery became sharper, his narratives stronger, and his presence more authentic.
One of the biggest breakthroughs came when Sarthak shifted from "answering" questions to "owning" his story — speaking with clarity, confidence, and a genuine connection to his journey.
At GOALisB, we knew that when a candidate reaches that point — where preparation meets authenticity — the ISB interview moves beyond technical evaluation; it becomes a natural conversation where the candidate’s leadership potential truly shines.
By the time the real ISB interview day arrived, Sarthak was not just prepared — he was ready.
What challenges can occur during the ISB interview, and how should candidates handle them?
The day of the ISB interview arrived — and despite meticulous preparation, reality still threw unexpected challenges at Sarthak.
Within minutes of starting the interview, Sarthak's internet connection began to falter.
Over the course of the 30-minute interview, his Zoom call disconnected three separate times.For many applicants, technical disruptions of this magnitude could easily derail composure, create panic, or leave a negative impression.
But Sarthak’s preparation with GOALisB had not just focused on delivering perfect answers — it had focused on building resilience, presence, and adaptability under pressure.
Each time the call dropped, Sarthak calmly rejoined, acknowledged the disruption with professionalism, and resumed the conversation without letting it rattle his focus. His ability to maintain composure despite repeated setbacks left a quiet but powerful impression on his interviewers.
Moreover, the interview panel — composed of two ISB alumni — demonstrated empathy and professionalism, continuing the discussion graciously despite the interruptions. Their demeanor confirmed an important truth that we at GOALisB emphasize to all applicants: The ISB interview is not designed to intimidate; it is designed to understand who you are.
Throughout the interview, Sarthak was able to:
Articulate his leadership experiences with clarity.
Connect his Merchant Navy background to his post-MBA career goals.
Demonstrate genuine self-awareness about his strengths, weaknesses, and learning moments.
Show clear, well-thought-out reasons for choosing the ISB PGP, backed by a vision for his future.
The authenticity and alignment between his essays and interview answers were unmistakable — a direct result of the structured introspection and preparation he had undertaken with GOALisB.
More than just a test of technical knowledge, the interview became a demonstration of Sarthak’s leadership character: poised under pressure, resilient amidst disruption, and focused on solutions rather than obstacles.
By the end of the call, despite the technological challenges, Sarthak knew he had presented the best, truest version of himself to ISB — and that made all the difference.
What are the biggest myths about ISB admissions?
Through Sarthak’s journey, several widespread myths about the ISB admission process were not only challenged — they were completely debunked.
At GOALisB, we frequently counsel applicants who carry unnecessary fears fueled by misinformation. Sarthak’s experience reaffirmed an important truth: ISB’s admissions process is rigorous, but it is also fair, human, and deeply aligned with meritocracy.
Here are some myths that Sarthak personally encountered — and what the reality turned out to be:
Myth 1: "You need to exaggerate your profile to get selected."
Reality:Authenticity wins.Sarthak’s essays and interview preparation were built around honest, introspective storytelling.Rather than manufacturing artificial leadership experiences or overstating his achievements, he highlighted real moments from his Merchant Navy career — crisis management, team leadership, strategic thinking — and trusted the depth of his journey.His success proved that ISB looks for self-aware candidates, not exaggerated resumes.
Myth 2: "ISB interviews are aggressive and grilling."
Reality:The ISB interview panel was respectful, understanding, and genuinely interested in learning about Sarthak’s experiences and aspirations.Despite multiple technical disruptions during his interview, the alumni panel remained patient and supportive.The interview was a conversation — not an interrogation.GOALisB's preparation helped Sarthak maintain composure, but the interviewers’ professionalism was a strong reminder: ISB seeks leaders, not just polished speakers.
Myth 3: "GMAT score alone decides your ISB admission."
Reality:While a competitive GMAT score strengthens a candidate’s profile, ISB’s evaluation is holistic.Sarthak’s journey demonstrated that leadership experiences, clarity of career goals, maturity reflected in essays, and authenticity during the interview carried as much weight — if not more — than pure test scores.
His resilience in reattempting the GMAT, his introspective storytelling in essays, and his authentic demeanor during the interview were all critical pillars of his admit.
At GOALisB, we emphasize that ISB admissions reward candidates who show potential, authenticity, and readiness for leadership — not just numerical excellence.
Through Sarthak’s ISB admission journey, these myths were not just addressed — they were dismantled, offering future aspirants a clearer, more empowering view of what the ISB PGP admissions process truly values.
How can choosing the right ISB admission consultant impact your MBA application?
Looking back, Sarthak often reflects that choosing the right mentorship for his ISB journey was as crucial as any other decision he made.
At the beginning of his MBA application process, Sarthak, like many candidates, explored conversations with multiple ISB admission consultants.Most conversations revolved around transactional models — hours of service, the number of edits, the price point.Few went deeper into understanding his story, his potential, or the emotional journey that a career pivot demands.
In contrast, his first interaction with GOALisB was different.
The conversation focused on his aspirations. Instead of dwelling on his initial GMAT score, the focus shifted immediately to what could be built next — the application, the story, the preparation for success.
Sarthak appreciated the honest, no-sugarcoating feedback he received from the very beginning.He was challenged to introspect harder, to refine his goals more clearly, and to stretch beyond his comfort zone — all without the pressure of "hours counted" or "limited reviews."
Through every phase — GMAT regrouping, essay brainstorming, mock interviews — the support from GOALisB was not just technical; it was strategic, emotional, and tailored to his individual growth.
Sarthak often says that choosing GOALisB was not about buying a service; it was about finding a true partner in his journey — a partner who understood that MBA admissions, especially at a school like ISB, demand both strategy and authenticity.
For future applicants, his advice is simple:
Find a mentor who pushes you to discover your real story — not one who just edits your essays. Trust the people who believe in your potential even before you fully see it yourself.
In Sarthak’s case, that made all the difference.
What practical advice can help future ISB aspirants succeed?
As Sarthak reflects on his journey from the Merchant Navy to securing admission to the ISB PGP, he offers candid advice to future applicants hoping to follow a similar path.
At GOALisB, we believe that hearing from those who have successfully navigated the ISB admission process provides invaluable insights — practical, real-world lessons beyond what any brochure can teach.
Here are Sarthak’s key reflections and advice for ISB aspirants:
1. Start Early and Plan Strategically
Sarthak emphasizes the importance of starting early — not just with the GMAT, but with deep introspection.Rushing through the ISB application essays or interview preparation limits the quality of your storytelling.Give yourself enough time to reflect, refine, and build a powerful, authentic narrative.
2. Be Authentically You
Trying to mold your profile into what you think ISB wants is a mistake.Sarthak’s success came from being genuine about his experiences — the highs, the lows, the learnings.ISB values candidates who understand themselves and can articulate their journeys with clarity and honesty.
3. Don’t Let a Single Metric Define You
A GMAT score is important, but it does not singularly define your candidacy.Sarthak’s experience proved that leadership experiences, career progression, clarity of goals, and authentic essays and interviews carry immense weight in the holistic evaluation process.
4. Prepare for the Interview Beyond Answers
Interview preparation isn’t about memorizing model responses.Through his preparation with GOALisB, Sarthak learned that building conviction, owning your story, and adapting in real-time mattered far more than reciting scripted answers.
5. Choose the Right Guidance
Finding the right ISB admission consultant was, according to Sarthak, a pivotal decision.A true mentor doesn’t just "review documents"; they invest in your growth, help you see possibilities you hadn't considered, and push you toward presenting your most powerful, authentic self.
In Sarthak’s words:
“Believe in your journey. Trust that your experiences, when reflected authentically and strategically, are enough. With the right guidance, persistence, and self-awareness, your ISB dream is absolutely within reach.”
What can you learn from successful ISB admissions journeys?
Sarthak’s journey from navigating ships to navigating the competitive corridors of ISB serves as a powerful reminder:Transformation begins with belief — belief in one's story, belief in the power of structured preparation, and belief in the journey itself.
At GOALisB, we have the privilege of working with aspirants like Sarthak who don’t just dream about transitions — they commit to them with authenticity, resilience, and strategic focus.
His story reinforces some timeless truths about succeeding in the ISB admission process:
Authentic leadership experiences matter more than polished façades.
Strategic introspection trumps superficial profile-building.
Holistic preparation — across essays, interviews, and mindset — is what ultimately shapes outcomes.
Through self-awareness, disciplined preparation, and structured mentorship, Sarthak turned his aspirations into reality — earning a place in the prestigious ISB PGP program.
For future ISB aspirants, his journey offers a simple but profound lesson:
When you combine authenticity with strategy, and resilience with preparation, even the most ambitious transitions are within reach.
At GOALisB, we remain committed to enabling such journeys — journeys that don't just end with an MBA admit, but begin a lifetime of leadership and impact.
If you are ready to craft your story, sharpen your strategy, and take the first step toward your ISB dream, we are here to walk that path with you.
Don't let the complexities of the application process deter you from reaching your potential. Join the ranks of successful candidates who have made their ISB dreams a reality. Take the first step towards your MBA journey today. Contact GOALisB for a consultation and let's chart your course to success together. Your ISB adventure begins here!
ISB Admissions & MBA Programs - Complete Resource Guide
This category includes all key resources related to ISB’s MBA programs, admissions guidance, interview preparation, and placement insights.
