Holding the positions of Director and Dean at a university, Dr. Darshana is responsible for overseeing postgraduate business studies programs and ensuring the all-round growth of the students. With a remarkable career spanning over 30 years, she has excelled in teaching, research, and administration.

Dr. Darshana R Dave serves as the Director of the Postgraduate Department of Business Management and as the Dean of the Faculty of Management at Sardar Patel University in Vallabh Vidyanagar in Gujarat. Additionally, she holds a position on the university's Board of Management. With her three roles—teacher, researcher, and administrator—Dr. Dave plays a pivotal role in the university's academic and administrative functions.

In her role as a teacher, Dr. Darshana specializes in subjects such as Communication Skills, Research Methodology, and Marketing Management. Dr. Dave brings over 30 years of experience to her alma mater, having initially joined it as a student. She completed her Bachelor's in Business Administration and pursued her MBA within the same department. Today, she leads it as the Director of the institute, contributing her expertise to the university's growth and development.

In addition to her teaching role, Dr. Darshana has been actively engaged in various research projects funded by prestigious organizations such as the UGC, the ICSSR, the Ministry of Rural Development, and the Election Commission of India in New Delhi.

Dr. Darshana informs us that Sardar Patel University's SSIP cell actively encourages students to pursue startups and file patents. Additionally, the university hosts the Padma Shri Lecture Series, wherein renowned personalities like Professor Anil Gupta from IIM Ahmedabad, who focuses on social entrepreneurship, inspire students.

The university also celebrates cultural festivals like the Millet Festival and sports events that focus on promoting traditional sports from Gujarat. Furthermore, there is a strong emphasis on research, leading to the university receiving an A+ accreditation from NAAC. Dr. Darshana credits this achievement to the dedication of the faculty, decision-makers, and past and present vice-chancellors who created a vibrant campus environment.

Regarding her achievements, Dr. Darshana considers her current role as the Director of her alma mater to be her greatest accomplishment. She sees it as an opportunity to give back to the institute that has given her so much. Her focus remains on enhancing the experience of the students and ensuring their overall growth and development. Dr. Darshana finds fulfillment in working with the younger generation, guiding them towards a brighter future.

Dr. Darshana recalls that during her MBA studies at the university's department, the MBA program was highly sought after in the job market. She also gained practical experience by working in the industry for a period of time. Drawing from her industry experience, she realized she could impart valuable insights to students. Teaching had always been her passion, influenced by her upbringing in an environment where education was highly valued as her mother was a teacher and principal at a CBSE school.

She chose to pursue an academic career, leveraging her strong communication skills to connect with and educate students effectively. Sardar Patel University, situated in a rural area, has been proactive in providing quality education to students from rural backgrounds. Dr. Darshana emphasizes the university's commitment to ensuring not only academic excellence but also holistic development for its students.

Dr. Darshana emphasizes the importance of not just academic learning, but also ensuring students find suitable employment opportunities. In her department, efforts are made to facilitate placements and encourage entrepreneurship through seminars and conferences.

Reflecting on her childhood, Dr. Darshana shares fond memories of growing up in a small township near Jamnagar, Gujarat, associated with the Bangur Cement Company. She attended a CBSE affiliated school run by the company until 10th grade. Due to limited educational facilities, she then moved to Jamnagar for higher secondary education, about 30 kilometers from her hometown. Eventually, she pursued further studies at Vallabh Vidyanagar.

Her childhood was a blend of fun and education, with excellent teachers and a motivated principal. Dr. Darshana feels fortunate to have been part of the first ever batch to take the 10th-grade exams at her school. Teachers provided individual attention, fostering good student progress. The school also encouraged extracurricular activities and boasted a large sports ground, uncommon for the time.

Transitioning from her small hometown to Vallabh Vidyanagar was a pivotal decision for Dr. Darshana. She attributes her success to the guidance of her teachers and elders, recognizing their influence in shaping her life.

When asked about her role models, Dr. Darshana mentions her 81-year-old mother as her main inspiration. Despite her age, her mother continues to work tirelessly without complaining of fatigue. She admires her mother's dedication and the way she maintains her hobbies, like singing, even in her senior years. Additionally, Dr. Darshana aspires to be her own role model, constantly striving to improve herself.

A quote that resonates with her is "Never give up," reflecting her resilient attitude towards challenges. She finds solace in the song "Ae Zindagi Gale Laga Le."

Dr. Dave draws inspiration from individuals who selflessly serve others, appreciate nature, and show love for animals. She believes that those connected to nature lead fulfilling lives.

Reflecting on her challenges, Dr. Darshana recalls a health scare seven years ago when she was diagnosed with cancer. Despite the difficult time, she received excellent treatment and support from her loved ones, which helped her overcome the ordeal and return to a normal life.

When asked to draw a difference between education and experience,  she says she believes that while education provides a foundation, real-life experiences offer invaluable lessons. According to her, a combination of both education and experience is essential for personal and professional growth.

Dr. Darshana advises those in academia and management to continuously enhance their communication skills and update their knowledge through reading. She believes that being knowledgeable enables fruitful discussions and leads to greater achievements. Regardless of age, she emphasizes the importance of learning new technologies and taking care of one's health by taking regular breaks.

In the field of management education, Dr. Darshana highlights the necessity for students to possess diverse skills, particularly proficiency in digital technology. She stresses the significance of hard work, clear objectives, and enjoying life's moments. She says that maintaining friendships is also crucial, as they provide support and assistance throughout one’s life journey.

To manage stress effectively, Dr. Darshana suggests spending time in nature, which adds meaning to life. As the nation progresses, she encourages the youth to create job opportunities and serve as role models by leading ethical lives. Remaining faithful, trustworthy, and ethical are essential traits for contributing positively to society.

Dr. Darshana's message to women is to strive for independence, both financially and personally, while also prioritizing family responsibilities.

Her message for the younger generation emphasizes striking a balance between career and family life in future and more importantly having  families.

When asked about using a time machine to go back in time, Dr. Darshana expresses that dwelling on the past wouldn't resolve anything. Instead, she believes in learning from mistakes and focusing on moving forward in life.