Life in an IIT | ‘Gained confidence, resilience and a sense of purpose at IIT Bombay’

After cracking the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced in 2023, I got admission to BTech in Electrical Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay).

JEE preparation, coaching in Kota

I first appeared for JEE Main in June 2022 and qualified the JEE Advanced. For JEE preparation, I initially relied on self-study with some support from local coaching. Despite my efforts, I fell short of my expectations on my first attempt. With my JEE rank on the first attempt, I was allotted Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad (MNNIT or NIT Allahabad). Unsatisfied with the branch I was allotted to and the zeal to be in a better institute, I took a year drop and reappeared for JEE Main in January 2023 and Advanced in June. I decided to enroll at Allen Career Institute in Kota, Rajasthan.

I focused on the study material provided by them and actively sought clarification for any doubts I faced. Additionally, I made it a point to participate in weekly practice tests to gauge my progress. 

While facing setbacks and feeling frustrated, the encouragement from my parents served as a constant source of motivation. Their belief in my abilities reinforced my determination to continue working hard and striving for success.

‘Absence of parents, transition to a new environment’

I came to IIT Bombay in August 2023. While this was my first experience studying at an IIT, it wasn’t my first time being away from home and living independently. Before taking admission, I had spent around eight months living in a hostel in Kota. This experience helped me develop the independence and resilience to thrive in a new environment at IIT Bombay.

While the mess food at IIT Bombay or any other place may not be compared to home-cooked meals, I approached my meal with an open mind and adjusted to this aspect of campus life. The communal dining experience has become an integral part of my routine, and I found ways to appreciate the variety of dishes offered. I like the sweet dishes served there in the IIT Bombay mess, especially the gulab jamun.

Exploring the campus has played a significant role in my adjustment process. It allowed me to familiarise myself with my new surroundings and discover hidden gems within the campus community. Additionally, actively seeking opportunities to connect with fellow students through social events and casual interactions helped alleviate feelings of isolation and fostered a sense of belonging.

Daily routine at IIT Bombay

In my first year at the institute, there are five to six credit courses and a couple of non-credit courses per semester. My day begins at 7 am, followed by morning activities and breakfast. Classes usually start between 8:30 am and 9:30 am depending on the schedule, with a break for lunch from 12:30 pm to 2 pm. Afternoon classes begin at 2 pm and continue till 5 pm, followed by a snack at the hostel mess. 

Non-credit course classes are held on Friday evenings or weekends. After all classes and other commitments, my day ends at around midnight.

At IIT Bombay, I immersed myself in a diverse range of clubs and societies, including organising teams for prominent events like Mood Indigo 2023, Techfest 2023 and E-Summit as well as participating in social fest – Abhyuday 2023. 

I also contributed to Impulse, our Electrical Fest, and served as a member of the National Service Scheme (NSS) team, where I actively engaged in community service initiatives.

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Strategic approach to balance studies and other activities

Managing my academic studies alongside these extracurricular activities demanded a strategic approach to time management and prioritisation. I meticulously organised my schedule, breaking down tasks into manageable segments and setting clear objectives and deadlines. 

By maintaining a proactive stance and balancing my responsibilities effectively, I excelled both academically and in my extracurricular pursuits. This balance enriched my college experience and allowed me to develop new skills and broaden my horizons.

Moreover, there are many options on the campus to hang out with friends. For example, the boat house near Powai Lake and Sameer Hill provides a serene view. 

Moreover, I am also exploring cafes in Bandra, Andheri and Hiranandani. We also have been to Dadar market, Hill Road, Linking Road and Colaba market. The best part is roaming with friends on the roads of Hiranandani or sitting at the marine drive for long, playing at the beaches and going to movies. These provide vibrant settings for shared experiences and memorable moments with friends, enriching the student life experience in Mumbai.

IIT-B has shaped me into a more well-rounded

Being in the IIT Bombay has brought a significant change in my life. Firstly, the rigorous academic environment at IIT Bombay has challenged me to push my limits and strive for excellence. I have learned to manage my time more effectively, prioritise tasks, and develop strong problem-solving skills. Moreover, the diverse and vibrant community at IIT has exposed me to new perspectives, cultures and ideas. 

Whether it is organising events, participating in competitions, or volunteering for social causes in IIT Bombay, I have gained confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose through my involvement in extracurricular activities. Overall, being in IIT Bombay has been a transformative journey that has shaped me into a more well-rounded, adaptable and resilient individual.