My Journey at BITS: A Second Chance and a New Chapter
My story uniquely blends ambition, resilience, and a second chance at a better education. The essence of a great college is often found in its students; equally important are its professors, academia, and resources. Yet, the college's culture makes an even greater impact. I am fortunate to have been part of an institution that fosters a culture of motivation and aspiration. However, my experience reflects a mixed timeline, with significant changes in admission criteria and academic culture over recent years.
A Stratified Academic Background
Before joining BITS, my academic journey was tumultuous. My performance in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) was well below the national averages, with a Main exam rank of 51,000, and an Advanced exam rank of 15,000. These rankings left me with very limited options for prestigious engineering institutions in India. Amidst despair, I turned to the BITS Admission Test (BITSAT) and miraculously scored 280, securing a place in the MSc. Mathematics program at the Goa campus. At the time, this avenue was my last hope and my primary safety net.
Adapting to the New Environment
My first year at BITS was marked by a significant shift in focus. As a dual degree student, my academic path required me to excel in both mathematics and computer science. Determined to succeed, I concentrated on my studies, achieving impressive academic performance. I scored a 7.88 in my first semester and 9.14 in my second, giving me an overall first-year CGPA of 8.6. With this high CGPA, I comfortably secured my place in the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) program as my dual degree, while acknowledging that the average CGPA for the CSE department was around 8. This indicates that I outperformed most of my peers, many of whom had significantly higher scores in the BITSAT and JEE exams.
Integrating Mathematics and Engineering
One of the most satisfying aspects of my BITS experience has been the opportunity to study mathematics and engineering simultaneously. This interdisciplinary approach enables me to integrate theories and practical knowledge from both fields. This dual degree experience is more than just a degree—it's a chance to develop a unique perspective that can be incredibly valuable in industrial and academic settings. I can now undertake interdisciplinary projects, which allows me to apply mathematical concepts to real-world engineering challenges and vice versa.
Reflections and Gratitude
The path to BITS was challenging, but the institution has provided me with a second chance and a new academic journey. I am extraordinarily grateful for this opportunity, as it has opened doors to further educational and professional opportunities. Elated by the chance to study mathematics and engineering at the same time, I believe that this unique blend will significantly enhance my future career prospects.
In conclusion, my journey at BITS has been marked by resilience and determination. The institution has provided me with the support and resources to thrive, and I am deeply thankful for this second chance. Cheers to the next chapter of my academic and professional life!