Reflections on St. Josephs College of Engineering: A Toxic Academic Environment
Having recently completed my Bachelor of Engineering in Electronics and Communication from St. Josephs College of Engineering, I felt compelled to share my authentic experiences. While the institution may have played a role in my academic journey, the environment was far from positive, marked by excessive academic pressure, poor mental health support, and unethical practices.
The Academic Pressure and Supply of Knowledge
My experience at St. Josephs College of Engineering was predominantly marked by a relentless focus on academic performance. The teaching staff, both academics and administrative, were described as teaching machines that emphasized rote learning over practical application. Staff members felt undervalued, treated as mere resources to be manipulated for academic success.
Even the non-teaching staff, entrusted with administrative and logistical support, were overworked, often laboring 75 hours a week. Despite the availability of food, it was inadequate in nutritional value and contribution to overall well-being. This subpar nutrition led to an increase in health issues and a sedentary lifestyle, amidst the heightened pressure to achieve perfect internal exam scores—often leading to a 90 or 95 grade bar.
Impact on Personal Growth and Mental Health
The environment at the college was not merely an academic one; it deeply impacted my personal development. The intense focus on internal marks and the relentless pursuit of perfection resulted in a loss of personal interests. The pursuit of a higher education did not allow for the exploration of varied interests, leading to a diminished sense of self. By the final year, I was finally able to break free from the pressure and focus on other aspects of my life, finding peace and a sense of direction.
The Pressures of Placements and Unethical Practices
The college placed significant emphasis on placements, a focus that extended to controlling the coding capabilities of students. Training programs were geared towards coding, a skill that was presented as the sole path to success. The placement process was biased by coding ability, rather than a holistic understanding of the student's potential. Moreover, the pressure to perform in placements extended to the quality of instruction provided, with many students being burdened with an excessive course load, often ranging from two to three papers per semester.
Ethical Concerns and Financial Transparency
In recent times, the college's unethical practices have escalated, culminating in the sacking of staff. These actions have been taken under invalid reasons during the mid-semester, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty among the students and staff. The college appears more focused on monetary gain than on fostering a supportive and educational atmosphere.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
While St. Josephs College of Engineering may have imparted some practical knowledge, the supportive and nurturing environment essential for holistic growth was severely lacking. The toxic environment paired with excessive academic pressure and lack of mental health support create a breeding ground for student dissatisfaction and resentment.
I urge prospective students to carefully consider the reputation and environment of the institution before enrolling. It is crucial to find a college that not only provides quality education but also fosters well-being and personal growth.