My Journey to IISER: Why and When I Chose This Path

From the very early years of my academic journey, I was always fascinated by the workings of the world around me. The path to IISER (Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research) was a journey fueled by curiosity, determination, and the pursuit of a dream undergraduate education in science.

Childhood Interest in Science

As far back as I can remember, when I was still in the second grade, I had decided that I wanted to become a scientist. This idea, though still a childish fantasy, never truly wavered. The wonder and exploration of the natural world have always been a core part of who I am.

Discovering IISER: The Turning Point

The turning point came in my 10th standard, when my mathematics teacher introduced me to TED-style talks. These talks introduced me to the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc). I was particularly impressed by the course structure and, specifically, the fifth-year research project offered by IISERs.

Preparation and Realization

My journey from these initial impressions to practical application in the exam room was a series of events and realizations. During my 11th and 12th grades, I prepared for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE), but I never ignored my interest in the basic sciences. Physics, in particular, was the subject I was really drawn to.

While preparing for the JEE Main in January 2020, I realized that my true calling lay in the realm of basic sciences rather than engineering. My interest in IISERs grew stronger as I delved deeper into understanding their unique program structure and the opportunities they offered.

The Road to Admission

Things weren’t always smooth sailing. After the JEE Main, I took a moment to consider my options. I applied to several universities for BSc programs and eventually took admission in a physics honors course. However, my heart was set on IISER.

With renewed motivation, I prepared for the Institution Academic Test (IAT) in 2021. Alongside this preparation, I was also enrolled in a BSc course, but the online format made it more manageable. After intense preparation and anxiety-filled moments leading up to the exam, I received the news that I had been allotted to IISER Kolkata.

Looking Forward

Now, as I prepare to embark on this journey at IISER, I am filled with excitement and anticipation. The next five years promise to be filled with incredible learning and discovery. I am grateful for the questions that prompted this reflection and for the journey that has led me here.

Just as Swami Vivekananda advised, I have taken on the idea of becoming a scientist and scientist in training as my guiding principle. This is my life.