At the CIMAGE Group of Institutions in Patna, Bihar, education extends far beyond textbooks and examinations. It is deeply rooted in mindset, initiative, and continuous self-improvement. Our leadership frequently imparts life lessons that shape our students into confident professionals. Among these guiding philosophies, none is more transformative than the concept of ‘ASK’ championed by our Director, Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal. Understanding this philosophy changes how students approach challenges, career opportunities, and life itself.
The Philosophy of ‘ASK’ at CIMAGE Patna
When we look at how individuals succeed in their personal and professional journeys, the difference often lies in whether they take the initiative or wait passively. Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal introduces the concept of ‘ASK’ as a two-fold guiding light: first, developing Attitude, Skill, and Knowledge; and second, the fundamental act of asking for what you want in life. Too many aspirants hold themselves back due to self-doubt, assuming rejection before they even try.
Elaborating on this mindset during an engaging discussion, Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal noted: “Bhagwan ko jo bhi hum bolte hain, Bhagwan kya bolte hain? Tathastu! Toh isme main yahi kahunga ki kam-se-kam mangna chahiye, you never know what life has thought for you.” He further emphasized the direct truth of human endeavor: “Jab tak aap mangoge nahi tab tak aapko kuch milega nahi.” If you do not apply for a job or pursue an opportunity, your chance of success is zero percent, but stepping forward opens doors.
When Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Visited Our Campus
One of the most inspiring chapters in our institutional history involves a moment where this exact philosophy of asking was put to the test. Years back in 2011, the CIMAGE family had a cherished opportunity that seemed almost out of reach: hosting the late former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, right here in Patna. Getting in touch with a visionary statesman of his stature was an immense challenge, but the leadership decided to take a bold step.
Recalling how the visit materialized, Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal shared how Director Megha Agrawal encouraged him to reach out despite his initial hesitation. We had established a public neighborhood library with a nominal annual membership fee of 5 rupees, and organized a book exhibition. By simply reaching out to Dr. Kalam and informing him of these educational initiatives, our request was met with a positive response. It stands as a timeless reminder that when you dare to ask, remarkable doors open.
The Courage to Ask: Lessons from Director Megha Agrawal
In our daily lives and travels, hesitation often robs us of better possibilities. Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal often credits Director Megha Agrawal for exemplifying this fearless attitude. Whether it is checking for front-row seat availability during travel or asking for guidance from mentors, the underlying rule is simple: never fear a polite request.
As Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal articulates: “You have to ask from your life, you have to ask from the people around you, you have to ask from the situation, you have to ask from the God.” At our campus in Patna, we encourage every student to shed their inhibitions, ask questions in classrooms, seek clarity from faculty members, and actively pursue career openings without fear of hearing ‘no’.
Placements Are Earned, Not Entitled
While asking opens the door, sustained effort and dedication are what secure a professional future. Addressing students on the realities of campus recruitment, Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal issued an important caution against complacency. Students must remember that career success is built on rigorous academic engagement rather than fee payment alone.
In his own words in Hindi: “छात्र को जो नौकरी मिलती है, जो प्लेसमेंट मिलता है, वो उन क्लासेस के बल पे मिलता है जो उसने यहाँ पर अटेंड करी, वो उस नॉलेज के बल पे मिलता है, ना की फीस के बल पर।” Even when major corporations like WIPRO recruit 296 students at once, or ICICI Bank takes 259 students in a single drive, juniors must not assume jobs are handed out without preparation. Consistent preparation and regular class attendance remain non-negotiable.
Learning Beyond Classrooms: Newspapers and Global Awareness
True professional acumen requires looking beyond standard textbooks and engaging with the wider world. Prof. (Dr.) Neeraj Agrawal actively motivates students to cultivate the habit of reading financial and business newspapers such as the Economic Times. Reading print media and periodicals builds strong vocabulary, enhances economic awareness, and deepens understanding of technology, startups, and stock markets.
In an era where time is frequently lost scrolling through unproductive social media content like Instagram reels, investing time in reading provides long-term dividends. Drawing from his own journey of building institutions in Bihar, our Director emphasizes that continuous learning is the bedrock of enduring career growth.
Key Takeaways
- The ‘ASK’ framework stands for Attitude, Skill, Knowledge, and the courage to ask for opportunities.
- Never assume rejection; applying for a position gives you a chance, whereas failing to apply guarantees zero success.
- Former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam visited our CIMAGE campus and neighborhood library in Patna back in 2011 because leadership dared to extend an invitation.
- Placements at CIMAGE are earned through rigorous classroom attendance and knowledge acquisition, not through fee payments or entitlement.
- Reading business newspapers like the Economic Times builds vocabulary and global market awareness, steering students away from unproductive screen time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the ‘ASK’ philosophy mean at CIMAGE?
‘ASK’ stands for Attitude, Skill, and Knowledge, combined with the proactive mindset of asking life, people, and situations for what you rightfully pursue instead of holding back in self-doubt.
How did Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam visit CIMAGE in 2011?
When CIMAGE inaugurated its public neighborhood library and book exhibition, leadership reached out and invited Dr. Kalam, proving that taking the initiative can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
Are campus placements guaranteed simply by enrolling?
No. As Director Dr. Neeraj Agrawal emphasizes, jobs are secured through regular class attendance, dedicated learning, and personal capability, not through fee payments or complacency.
Why does CIMAGE encourage reading business newspapers?
Reading publications like the Economic Times enhances vocabulary, deepens understanding of economics, stock markets, and technology, and helps students avoid unproductive social media habits.
As we continue our mission of shaping future leaders in Patna and across Bihar, we invite aspirants to visit our campus, embrace the power of ‘ASK’, and build a rewarding career with us. Visit our Admissions page or drop by our college office today!
