After cracking the JEE Advanced in 2023, I got admission to BTech in ceramic engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology Banaras Hindu University Varanasi (IIT BHU Varanasi). I am now in the second year of my BTech studies.

Preparation for JEE, offline coaching

For JEE preparation, I decided to enroll in the offline batch of Aakash Institute from my hometown in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, apart from studying what was being taught at Classes 11 and 12.

At the institute, I made it a point to participate in weekly practice tests to gauge my progress and see where I lay at the all-India level. I also participated in the scholarship test in the coaching institute and was awarded 100 percent fee-waiver and was called to the Delhi center where my food and lodging was also taken care of.

Absence of parents, transition to new environment

I came to IIT BHU (Varanasi) 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. Prior to taking admission in the IIT, I had spent around seven months in a hostel in Delhi, where I was mentored by Aakash teachers for the JEE exams. This experience helped me develop the necessary independence and resilience to thrive in a new environment at the IIT.

I recognized the opportunity for personal growth and resilience in this new chapter of my life. By maintaining a positive attitude and embracing the challenges ahead, I gradually found my footing.

I chose my institute – IIT BHU over my branch – ceramic engineering. The reason to choose IIT BHU was the strong alumni network I would be associated with and the legacy of the institute.

Exploring the city and campus

Exploring the campus and surrounding areas played a significant role in my adjustment process. It allowed me to familiarize myself with my new surroundings and discover hidden gems within the campus community.

Daily routine at IIT BHU

In my first year at the institute, I was enrolled in multiple clubs. My day nowadays begins with waking up at 7 am, followed by morning activities and breakfast. I go to the gym every day. Classes usually start at 8:30 am, depending on the schedule, with a lunch break in the afternoon followed by a snack at the hostel mess. After that, I go for lab activities. Finally, after all my classes and other commitments, my day ends around 12 midnight.

‘Gained confidence, resilience and a sense of purpose’

Being in the IIT has brought a significant change in my life. Firstly, the rigorous academic environment at IIT has challenged me to push my limits and strive for excellence. I have learned to manage my time more effectively, prioritize 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 organizing events, participating in competitions, or volunteering for social causes, I have gained confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose through my involvement in extracurricular activities. Overall, being in IIT has been a transformative journey that has shaped me into a more well-rounded, adaptable and resilient individual.

One of the most important things is the fests and the opportunity to meet the big names. I worked in the PR team of Kashiyatra and Technex where I met and took pictures with personalities like Satish Ray, Chandan Roy, Luv Sir. Also, during the fests, I interacted with international artist Tiago Tarboda.