Mystory@Deepanshu Jindal: I didn’t choose Science, it chose me

Mystory@Deepanshu Jindal

I was interested in Science and Mathematics since childhood. The reason could be my parents’ profession – Teaching. I was always intrigued by the intricacies of nature and was always curious to know the 'hows' and 'whys' of the stuff around us. So it's more like I didn’t choose Science, it chose me.

Being good in academics, especially Mathematics, I never doubted my choice and went ahead with it after Class 10. I chose Non-Medical as I thought I would be able to follow my passion for Maths more, and also because of my fascination for technology.

Like every Science student I too was fascinated with IIT. Aspiring for IIT was natural as it is the premier institute for technology and research in our country. I specifically chose IIT Delhi because of Delhi is my hometown. Computer Science was an obvious choice because of my interest in coding and computing systems. Also, it offers a wide range of avenues viz-a-viz career and I prefer keeping all my options open. Moreover, I felt that I would get to solve real world problems with mathematical models and powerful algorithms by pursuing CS.

How I cracked college admission

In class 11, my parents got me enrolled into a coaching institute that specialized in JEE exams preparation. At the classes, I came to know about the real nuances of the engineering exams and the extent of hard-work required for them. I prepared for JEE rigorously for two years.

On April 3, 2016, I sat for my JEE Mains exam. The exam went well and I started preparing for JEE Advanced which was scheduled on 22 May 2016. The preparation was intense with long stretches of continuous study throughout the day. I got my CBSE Class 12 Board exams result a day before JEE Advanced and I was ecstatic on scoring of 98.6%. However, the time to celebrate was still far as JEE Advanced was still to happen. It also went well and I was satisfied.

The feeling of joy when your work bears fruit is inexplicable. I can never forget my parents’ faces when they got to know my result. I managed All India Rank 1 in JEE Mains and All India Rank 53 in JEE Advanced. Apart from JEE, I had taken BITSAT and got a score of 445/450 in it.

What I gained from my college experience

The wonderful place called IIT is a different world in its own. Its location sets IIT Delhi apart from any other IITs. The life here is awesome; where awesome doesn’t mean that one isn’t required to work or one can sleep and play video games all day. IIT Delhi is awesome because here one gets to meet and bond with like-minded people and learning is an engaging activities with your mates. One gets to explore self through a multitude of activities and opportunities.

I spend around 6 hours every day in attending classes and working at the labs, followed by an hour of study for the various tests, quizzes, viva, etc. that happen almost daily (after all it’s IIT) or in completing practical file, reports, etc. The professors here have a deep knowledge and are experts of their fields. I don’t find the classes exactly enjoyable, but they aren’t bad either. I enjoy MTL courses (Mathematics) more than others. Every once in a while you come across a nice application of the concepts and theories taught in the class and that is the moment of bliss I wait for.

Coming to the fun part, after all this studying, I wind up with a plethora of activities offered by the cultural clubs of IIT Delhi for dance, drama, music, debate, quizzing, etc. Also, there are courts for almost every sport I have heard of in India. I enjoy taking part in quizzes and literary club events. I also play many sports like table tennis, squash and cricket. The high speed internet here is one big plus and LAN or online gaming are integral part of our hostel life.

On the technical front I am an active member of the Robotics club and ACES-ACM, the computer science society of IITD.

The college fests are spread across the year and pack infinite fun. These fests provide refreshment and an opportunity for everyone to get together and celebrate.

If given a chance I would like to take part in dance or music activities, considering my below average skills in these, I wouldn’t mind improving them.

In the small duration that I have spent year, it has changed me tremendously. Now I see myself as a strong and a much more confident individual. I see myself as a more mature person who can take independent decisions. I no longer fear trying out new things. My stay here has given me some amazing friends for life.

My involvement with Robotics club completely changed how I look at things. I learned loads on planning, design and management skills. Maybe the life skills that you learn here are what actually makes an IIT.

About the Author:

I am Deepanshu Jindal, pursuing Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Delhi. I like to play a lot of sports like squash, cricket and badminton. Apart from that I enjoy quizzing, coding and robotics. I wish to become an entrepreneur and work for the nation. “A Dreamer with some Crazy plans” is what my Facebook bio says, and that’s exactly what I am.