African student shares honest experience of studying at IIT Bombay: ‘Underestimated what I was walking into’

In his Instagram post, Wizah S Sichilindi shared how his early days on campus were far more intense than he had imagined.

Another thing that defied his expectations was student life beyond academics

An African student studying at IIT Bombay has opened up about his journey as an international student, giving a rare and honest look into what it is really like to navigate life at one of India’s most competitive institutes.

In his Instagram post, Wizah S Sichilindi shared how his early days on campus were far more intense than he imagined. His first semester, he admitted, “shook him to his core,” leaving him so overwhelmed that he briefly thought about dropping out. But he reminded himself of the stakes and pushed on. “I had underestimated what I was walking into,” he wrote.

What surprised him most was the strange balance between pressure and peace — while the academics were demanding, he slowly found moments of stillness as he settled into the campus rhythm.

He also spoke about the sheer curiosity that seems to fuel IIT Bombay students. “Almost everyone carries a deep curiosity,” he said, recalling the thoughtful questions in classrooms, lively discussions over meals, and the constant exchange of ideas in small groups.

Another thing that defied his expectations was student life beyond academics. Contrary to the stereotype of IITians buried in books, he discovered a community that celebrates art, music, sports, and various student-led initiatives.

Sichilindi also shared an important reminder about cultural sensitivity: “One experience with one person should never define an entire culture.”

Watch the video:

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A post shared by Wizah S. Sichilindi (@wizah_s_sichi)

His video struck a chord online, drawing praise from viewers who appreciated his honesty. Several international students said they related strongly to his struggles and growth.

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One person in the comments asked what the process is for international students to get into IIT. Others encouraged him, writing messages like “Keep grinding bro.. you’re in the top institution of India,” while another said, “Bro you are at the pinnacle of Indian engineering… enjoy.”

Someone else added, “You will earn the respect of half of India just by saying that you study in IIT Bombay,” and another commenter shared that they too were facing similar challenges and wished him well for the future.