Life in an IIT | ‘IIT Jammu broadened my horizons,’ says BTech student

We follow a dynamic routine that seeks to foster learning and personal development. It is sometimes hectic but that’s what we are trained for.

JEE preparation and shifting to IIT Jammu

I belong to the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. It is quite near the actual line of control and there have been many instances where we experienced cross-border shelling and other disruptive activities that halted every student’s studies. There is also low awareness of the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). I got to know about JEE through YouTube while checking some preparation material for my Class 12 exams.

I prepared for JEE Advanced through online learning material and my rank was 22630 (General). I did not go to Kota, but I did rely on online resources, especially YouTube to prepare for the JEE. The experience of self-studying was challenging but nevertheless rewarding.

I am the first in my family to get into an IIT in 2021. However, this year my brother cracked the GATE exam and he got into IIT Roorkee for MTech.

If I had not made it to the IIT, I would have explored other engineering institutions in India. I was determined to pursue engineering as a career path. However, I also had a plan C which was to get into one of the top colleges of Delhi University to pursue Physics. During my time, CUET was not introduced, so I could have applied for admission at DU on the basis of my Class 12 marks.

Transitioning from my hometown Poonch to IIT Jammu was initially challenging but empowering. I gained exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives. The exposure indeed broadened my outlook and helped me adapt. 

Our batch started with the online semester with Zoom calls and digital lectures. We came to know about our batchmates via online meets. However, in that mode also, we developed strong friendships with our peers. We would spend hours sitting in an online meet to know our friends, where they are from and their journey to the IIT.

Unique lens to view life

Being at IIT Jammu, I feel I am provided with a unique lens through which I view life. The exposure, rigorous education, and interaction with brilliant minds have enriched my thinking and problem-solving abilities.

I am part of Tinkerers Lab, Robotics Club and Career Development Service of IIT Jammu. The Tinkerer’s Lab is a 24/7, student-managed maker space of IIT Jammu which was established with the help of the Maker Bhavan Foundation. Tinkerers’ lab has opened broad perspectives of research, machines and technology to me. 

I used a 3D printer for the first time in my life in this lab and that was the most interesting thing I had done after entering college. From then on, the Tinkerer’s lab has been the best place to work for me on the whole campus.

In my free time, I enjoy learning extra skills via the internet that would help me in the future at the ground level. 

Also, there are great sports facilities at IIT Jammu, so whenever we feel, like we can go and play with our peers. Completing my sleep is also my top priority.

Prioritising and finding a rhythm

Managing clubs alongside studies can be demanding, but it is a rewarding experience. It is all about prioritising and finding a rhythm. During exams, we usually do not put ourselves to a lot of work for the clubs, rather we focus on our studies.  

I have participated in inter-IIT competitions and fests, which are memorable experiences. These events foster healthy competition, collaboration, and unforgettable moments. 

This summer, I participated in the Invention Factory Program sponsored by the Maker Bhavan Foundation. It was a six-week internship opportunity where I along with 19 other students from different IITs and NITs had to invent something that could prove as a boon for society. 

This initiative looked impossible but when you actually see the 10 patentable products being made after those six weeks, you start believing in the potential of the students and the efforts of the teachers who guided them in it. For me, it was an excellent opportunity to evolve as an engineer and go into the product development field. 

After completing my BTech at IIT Jammu, I plan to pursue my studies further or explore opportunities in the Mechanical Core. My goal is to make a meaningful contribution to my field.

Life at IIT Jammu has been transformative. Coming from a region with it was a significant shift. IIT introduced me to a world of opportunities and broadened my horizons. Now I have friends from almost every state and union territory of India and I have been taught by professors from different parts of the nation as well.