IIT aspirants should look beyond placement packages | A lesson from IIT

Despite this, I decided to attend Schlumberger’s interview session out of curiosity and a hint of peer pressure. However, upon leaving the interview room, I made a resolute decision to forgo the placement process. I realised that day that my true affection lies in spending late nights in labs, coding algorithms for novel research ideas, and writing research papers to publish my findings to the scientific community. I started applying to Graduate Schools and finally chose to pursue a PhD at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada.

Fast forward to 2021 when I returned to IIT Guwahati as an Assistant Professor, it felt like a homecoming. This esteemed institution, where my passion for research blossomed, now allows me to guide and nurture a new generation. Whether their path leads to research or placement or something else, I find joy in imparting knowledge and fostering confidence with my own experience. The beauty of this lies in the experience gained in an institute like IIT, which instills in every graduate the belief that they can dare to dream and become whatever they aspire to be.

The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) have long been hailed as the pinnacle of technical education in India, sought after by countless aspiring students each year. The allure of prestigious placements and high salary packages after graduation has often been the primary driving force behind the vigorous preparation for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) and subsequent enrollment into an IIT. However, it is crucial to recognise that the essence of an IIT education extends far beyond the confines of lucrative job offers.

Amidst the relentless pursuit of success and financial security, it’s easy to overlook the comprehensive advantages that an IIT education bestows upon its students. While the prospect of securing a promising career is undoubtedly appealing, the intrinsic value of an IIT journey encompasses a multitude of benefits that endure throughout one’s professional and personal life.

One of the most invaluable takeaways from the rigorous preparation for the JEE lies in the cultivation of logical thinking and problem-solving skills. The process of gearing up for this competitive examination serves as a crucible that sieves and refines the brightest minds, honing their abilities to approach challenges analytically and systematically. This mental fortitude, instilled during the preparation phase, sets a solid foundation for a lifetime of intellectual growth and critical thinking.

Moreover, the illustrious roster of IIT alumni stands as a testament to the institution’s role in nurturing not just engineers but also leaders, innovators, administrators, and visionaries across diverse fields. From CEOs and entrepreneurs to accomplished writers and actors, the corridors of IITs have seen luminaries emerge from it. Their success stories underscore the fact that an IIT education opens doors to multifaceted opportunities, transcending the narrow confines of a predetermined career path.

Beyond the academic rigors and career prospects, the network forged within the IIT ecosystem emerges as a formidable asset in the professional realm. The connections established with peers, mentors, and alumni form a robust support system that extends far beyond graduation. This network becomes a catalyst for collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth, proving instrumental in navigating the complexities of the real world.

Personal experiences within the IIT community often mirror a multifaceted journey. For instance, my own tenure at IIT-G as a BTech student was focused on cultivating a passion for research rather than pursuing campus placements. The mentorship and guidance received from faculty members were invaluable, shaping my academic pursuits and fostering a spirit of inquiry.

Now, standing on the other side as a faculty member, witnessing the influx of fresh BTech students, I am enthralled by the vibrant spirit and potential that each newcomer brings. The premier status of IITs is underscored not only by the top-tier faculty but also by the intellectually stimulating environment fostered by brilliant colleagues. This amalgamation of talent and a shared pursuit of excellence perpetuates a culture of continuous motivation and growth.

In essence, while the allure of lucrative salary packages post-IIT remains undeniable, it is imperative to recognise that the true worth of preparing for and attending an IIT transcends monetary gains. It lays the groundwork for a lifelong journey characterised by intellectual prowess, expansive networks, and the relentless pursuit of excellence across various domains. Aspiring students should embrace the multifaceted opportunities and holistic growth that an IIT education offers, recognising that the rewards extend far beyond financial gratification.

(The writer is an Assistant Professor, Mehta Family School of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, IIT Guwahati)