— Manas Gupta

As I sit in my hostel room at IIT Bombay, reflecting on my journey, I realise that it all began with a passion for learning. Growing up in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, I was always fascinated by mathematics and science. This interest drove me to take the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), a turning point, I knew, that would change the course of my life if I get admitted to an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).

My journey to IIT Bombay wasn’t easy, but it was fueled by my determination to succeed. I prepared for the JEE while attending Delhi Public School, balancing school life and coaching studies. My JEE preparation started in Class 11 where I joined a local coaching institute. The pressure was constant, but I remained focused, knowing that hard work and perseverance would ultimately pay off.

After months of preparation, I gave the JEE Advanced exam in 2024 and secured an all India rank of 2,956. It was a moment of pride and relief, knowing that my efforts had paid off. My JEE Main rank was 2,279.

Choosing IIT Bombay and the Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Sciences Department was a difficult decision. I had to weigh the pros and cons of opting for an older IIT with a lower branch versus a newer IIT with a top branch. In the end, I chose IIT Bombay, and it’s a decision I don’t regret.

Life at IIT Bombay is a whirlwind of experiences. From adjusting to hostel life to managing academics and extracurricular activities, every day is a new challenge. A typical day here starts at 8 am as we have early morning classes. Lab works occupy most of our day, from morning to evening. Then I try to give about two hours to some sports, followed by dinner and some rest. To manage the load of studies, I dedicate about a couple of hours daily on it. Along with this, I have engaged myself with some clubs and events management teams which also require some time of work. In between, chit-chatting with friends and phone calls with family serve as stress-buster.

To thrive, I have learned to prioritise time management, balancing academics and extracurricular activities. But it is not all about books and schedules – late-night escapades with friends to cafes, canteens, and the lakeside offer a refreshing escape.

Of course, there are challenges. Adjusting to mess food, missing old friends, and navigating the vast city of Mumbai can be daunting. Yet, I believe these experiences are transformative, shaping me into a more resilient and independent individual.

One of the most significant lessons I have learned at IIT Bombay is self-reliance. With no restrictions, I have discovered that freedom comes with a greater sense of responsibility. It’s a valuable lesson that I’ll carry with me beyond my time at IIT.

As I look ahead to the next four years, I am excited to explore new areas of interest, develop new skills, and make lifelong friends. I know that life after IIT will bring its own set of challenges, but I’m confident that the experiences and lessons I’ve gained here will prepare me for whatever comes next.

To all the JEE aspirants out there, I would like to say that the journey may be tough, but it’s worth it. Keep working hard, stay focused, and never lose hope. You never know what greater things await you.

Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude to my parents, sister, teachers, and friends who have supported me throughout my journey. Your encouragement and guidance mean the world to me.

Mridusmita Deka covers education and has worked with the Careers360 previously. She is an alumnus of Gauhati University and Dibrugarh University. ... Read More