IIT Experience: From the Diaries of an IIT Delhi Alumnus

A lot of people have been writing interesting stuff about life at IITs. Most of them would throw in a few of the innovative IIT lingo and pranks (wink, wink!) to entice their readers. This post is different in that I have not tried to be politically correct here. I am penning my own observations and opinions as an IITian and what I understand to be the truth about IITs.

It has also been five years since I graduated out of IIT Delhi and I have had ample time to observe IITians from different IITian and find some key traits that distinguish them. For instance, I have found that:

• Most IITians tend to be nerds and/or introverts. Apart from IIT Delhi and IIT Mumbai, other IITs seem to re-enforce these qualities in their students. IIT Kharagpur and IIT Kanpur students, especially, find it very difficult to let go of their years at IIT. Even long after they have passed out of their alma mater, they keep using the IIT lingo – which after sometime may even cause boredom and irritation in others around them.
• IIT Chennai alumni absorb the typical South Indian mindset – perhaps from their surroundings. They are almost convinced that the intellectual quotient (IQ) of most Indians – especially North Indians (and those from IIT Delhi) – is much beneath them. They seem to loathe North Indians for several things, including their boisterousness and loud behaviour. I have also noticed that studying at a foreign university is almost a must for someone from IIT Madras. If they do not already have a degree from abroad, it is there right at the top of their ‘top priority’ list.
• IIT Bombay used to be the top choice for IIT JEE toppers even in my days. While most of this was herd mentality probably but the distinct advantages the institute offered was excellent placements and the location of the IIT Powai campus in one of the most happening cities of India. IIT-B students also seem to be the smartest of IITians I have met – having an edge over alumni of other IITs when it comes to technical knowledge and exposure they received inside and outside the campus.
• IIT Delhi seem to offer most of the advantages that IIT-B have too. When you really want a break and get away from the hectic academics and never-ending inter-hostel and IIT events (especially when you and in 3^rd and 4^th years), being in a good city helps. Being in cities like Delhi and Bombay also help in netting good post-IIT opportunities. However, Delhi might be a tad better for you if you want to be entrepreneur. It may also distract you away from academics at times – which may or may not be good for you.

Do you think I am being biased? I would love to read and reply to your comments here: