Shreya Agrawal shares her journey from a love for mathematics to securing a Computer Science and Engineering seat at IIT Guwahati, detailing her JEE preparation, vibrant campus life, and the profound lessons in personal growth and gratitude learned along the way.

Life in an IIT: My journey from a love for Maths to IIT Guwahati

Life at an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) like IIT Guwahati offers a transformative experience, blending rigorous academics with unparalleled personal growth. For Shreya Agrawal, a Computer Science and Engineering student, her path from a deep passion for mathematics to an IIT seat was marked by dedicated JEE preparation, the unique challenges of Kota coaching, and the discovery of a vibrant campus life that fostered independence, gratitude, and a pragmatic acceptance of life’s uncertainties.

The Spark: A Passion for Problem-Solving

My journey into engineering wasn’t a sudden decision, but a natural evolution fueled by a lifelong love for problem-solving and mathematics. From an early age, I found immense joy in spending hours with math books, an interest consistently nurtured by my parents, both educators. This foundation made engineering feel like an inherent next step, guiding me towards the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) in 2024 alongside my Class 12 board exams.

Navigating the JEE Journey

The path to IIT is notoriously challenging, and my JEE preparation began seriously in Class 11 at a coaching institute in Kota. While Kota is renowned for its competitive environment, it also presented significant personal hurdles. The hostel food, for instance, severely impacted my health, to the point where my mother considered bringing me home.

This challenging period, however, became a testament to the power of community. My closest friends and I found immense support when one of our friend’s mothers moved to Kota, creating a makeshift home that provided much-needed warmth and comfort. This experience highlighted the importance of a strong support system during high-stakes academic pursuits. Ultimately, my JEE Advanced rank of 23,000 and JEE Main rank of 48,000 led me to secure my dream — Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Guwahati, a choice that felt even better than my initial hope for Mathematics and Computing.

Embracing Life at IIT Guwahati

Arriving at IIT Guwahati in 2024 was exhilarating. Having experienced hostel life in Kota, I adapted quicker than expected, immediately falling for the campus’s serene beauty and peaceful environment. Though the initial separation from family was tough, I quickly forged strong bonds with my roommate and new friends, laying the groundwork for a rich campus experience.

By my second semester, I immersed myself in various student organizations, including the Aeromodelling Club, Coding Club, Maths Club, and the Computer Science and Engineering Association. Balancing these activities with a demanding academic schedule requires diligent time management, prioritizing tasks based on urgency and importance. My typical day involves early morning lectures, short naps, intense study sessions, and evenings dedicated to club meetings or compulsory basketball lessons. Late nights are a staple, often spent coding, studying, or engaging in deep discussions with my roommate, all while maintaining regular contact with my family back home.

Beyond Academics: Campus Culture and Personal Growth

Campus life at IIT Guwahati extends far beyond classrooms and club meetings. The sheer size and vibrancy of the campus mean there’s always a new spot to explore or a lively conversation to join. Spontaneous late-night outings for Maggi or simply observing the campus under the stars are common, creating unforgettable memories and fostering a strong sense of camaraderie. The freedom and abundant resources here set it apart from many other collegiate experiences.

Managing expenses is relatively straightforward, with most spending going towards food and essentials. While I wouldn’t call myself an athlete (skating and graded basketball aside), my true hobby remains reading novels. What stands out most from my time here, however, are the profound life lessons. IIT Guwahati has taught me immense gratitude, the reality that perspectives shift, and the impermanence of certain relationships. Crucially, it has instilled the importance of trusting people, albeit discerningly, and embracing uncertainty as an inevitable part of life.

Future Horizons: Aspiring Software Engineer

Looking forward, my aspiration is to work as a software engineer at a reputable company, focusing on roles that offer genuine enjoyment and opportunities to contribute meaningfully. I value working within an environment that fosters mutual respect and understanding among like-minded individuals. For now, my journey at IIT Guwahati continues to unfold, one lecture, one late-night discussion, and one invaluable lesson at a time, shaping me for a future where I hope to make a positive impact.