Bridging Generations: Alumni Interaction with Pratik Deshpande

We had the privilege of hosting Pratik Deshpande, an accomplished alumna from the 2014-2016 batch, for an engaging alumni-student interaction session. Pratik, currently a Manager at EY UK, is celebrated not only for his stellar career in information security but also for his achievements as a three-time author and a record-holder in the Limca Book of Records.

The event commenced with a warm welcome by Dr. Kanchan Patil, who felicitated Pratik for his contributions. Moderated by Shrutika Banerjee, the session transitioned into a captivating discussion, with Pratik reminiscing about his days at SCIT. He fondly shared memories of being part of various committees and emphasized how his time at SCIT shaped his career trajectory in information security.

Pratik’s passion for writing, especially on leadership, stems from his deep interest in exploring diverse perspectives on leadership traits. His latest book, “Bull’s Eye Leadership,” aimed at Gen Z, reflects his insights into how leadership evolves—some individuals are born leaders, while others develop these traits through experience. He stressed that leadership is not one-size-fits-all; it involves understanding team dynamics and adapting to situations.

He also touched upon the art of time management and highlighted the contrasting work-life balance cultures in the UK and India. The discussion culminated in Pratik’s account of his professional journey at EY UK, where he manages audit and SOC 1/SOC 2 engagements for banking clients. He underscored the significance of certifications like CISA, CISP, and CISM in building robust ISMS frameworks within organizations.

The event left students inspired by Pratik’s multifaceted achievements and provided invaluable insights into leadership, career growth, and life beyond SCIT.