Accessible buildings, transformative experience: Here’s journey of Pune boy to IIT Bombay

Being a physically challenged student, I knew the path wouldn’t be easy. Navigating school itself had its share of difficulties. While my school, New India School, had some basic accessibility features like a lift, they weren’t always fully functional or reliable. During my time at Suryadatta Public School, my mother often had to step in to ensure the lift worked so I could attend classes. This experience made me realise how crucial accessibility is and why institutions need to be more inclusive.

Preparing for JEE was an intense journey. I joined IITians’ Prashikshan Kendra (IITPK) in Pune, where the inspiring mentors and motivating environment helped me stay focused. Alongside my JEE preparation, I had to balance my board exams. My primary aim was to clear the 75 per cent cut-off set by IITs, but I surprised myself by achieving a 91 per cent score in Class 12 board exams. It was a proud moment that reinforced my belief in my capabilities. When the JEE Advanced results came out in 2024, my dream of securing a place in IIT Bombay’s electrical engineering program became a reality. I am now in my first year of BTech. I applied primarily for two branches in the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) counselling – electrical engineering and computer science engineering at IIT Bombay and Madras.

Stepping into IIT Bombay was a turning point in my life. It was my first time living away from home, and though I initially felt homesick, the inclusive environment and supportive peers helped me settle in. IIT Bombay goes above and beyond to ensure accessibility for students like me. All buildings, lecture halls, and recreational spaces are equipped with ramps and lifts, making it easy for me to navigate the campus in my wheelchair. The hostel facilities are thoughtfully designed, though there is room for improvement in the number of hostels with PwD-specific washrooms.

The academic culture here is vastly different from school. Back then, we were spoon-fed by teachers, and there was less emphasis on self-study. At IIT, it’s the opposite. Professors provide guidance and resources, but we’re expected to explore, analyse, and learn independently. Tutorials, guided by senior students, help bridge the gap and build confidence. My preparation for JEE instilled in me the habit of tackling tough problems, which has been invaluable in my academic journey here.

Socially, IIT Bombay has been a transformative experience. I made amazing friends during a competition called XLR8, and together, we’ve created countless memories. From late-night movies to random campus strolls (keeping an eye out for leopards!), life here has been full of joy and camaraderie. I’ve also found time for my favourite hobby, chess, which we often play in our free time. Our favourite hangout spot is the canteen near our hostel, where we enjoy coffee and endless conversations.

One of the best aspects of IIT is its inclusivity. Professors and staff are incredibly accommodating. For instance, deaf students are assigned teaching assistants to enhance their learning experience, and I’ve heard about plans to improve accessibility further with more use of braille and assistive technologies. This stands in stark contrast to my school and junior college experiences, where accessibility often felt like an afterthought.

Reflecting on my journey, I realise how much I have grown since I arrived at IIT. The challenges and opportunities here have shaped me into a more confident and independent person. While I sometimes miss home and my parents, the supportive environment at IIT and the friendships I’ve built have made this place feel like a second home.

Looking ahead, I aspire to pursue a master’s degree abroad or find a role in a field I’ll discover and grow passionate about during my BTech journey. For now, I am embracing every moment of this incredible experience, knowing that each day at IIT Bombay is helping me inch closer to my dreams.