Personal Insights: College and Branch Choices in JoSAA Counselling 2019

Choosing the right college and branch for engineering requires a careful balance of various factors. This article delves into my personal experiences during the JoSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authorities) counselling process in 2019, outlining my journey from college selection to branch preference.

JoSAA Counselling 2019 Overview

The JoSAA counselling process in 2019 was a hectic, yet rewarding experience. I was offered a seat at IIIT Vadodara in the CSAB round 1, majoring in CSE (Computer Science and Engineering), which wasn't my first choice. Here, I am sharing some insights and reflections on my college and branch selection journey.

My College Selection Process

Unlike my peers, I prioritized the college over the branch. My primary motivation for choosing NIT Bhopal was its branch change policy and overall academic standing, despite the material science and metallurgical engineering branch being my selection. My experience during the orientation program highlighted the importance of a supportive academic environment and the potential for improvement across all branches.

Orientation Program

The orientation program at NIT Bhopal lasted from 24th July to 1st August, with classes starting on 2nd August. The detailed schedule and orientation process were meticulously designed to ensure that students felt welcome and prepared for their upcoming academic journey. Despite the initial anxieties, by the end of the orientation, I felt a sense of belonging and excitement for my new academic life.

From Material Science to Chemical Engineering

After the first year, I had the opportunity to switch to chemical engineering based on my CGPA. The transition was smooth, and I am now studying in the upgraded branch. The keywords or key concepts I encountered were challenging and engaging, contributing to a better academic experience.

Initial College Offer: IIIT Vadodara

I received an offer from IIIT Vadodara in the CSAB round 1. While the college offers a high median salary of 13.5 LPA in CSE, the lack of a vibrant college life and a more challenging workload for non-CSE branches made it a less appealing choice for me. In contrast, NIT Bhopal provided a more balanced and flexible academic environment.

My Journey at NIT Silchar

Another key part of my counselling journey was my acceptance at NIT Silchar. Navigating through the rounds, I initially got EI (Electrical Engineering) and later upgraded to EE (Electrical Engineering) in the 2nd round. Despite the initial challenges, like the long journey of 36 hours, the stunning natural scenery made the experience memorable. The campus, library, and hostel provided a welcoming environment for a new academic journey.

Reflections and Future Prospects

Reflecting on my choices, I believe that every branch has potential if you are passionate and dedicated. The branch change facility at NIT Silchar adds to the flexibility, allowing students to explore different paths. My journey at NIT Silchar has been enriching, and I am now looking forward to the coming years with optimism.

My experiences during JoSAA counselling 2019 have shown that careful choice and adaptability are key factors in achieving academic success. Whether it’s material science, chemical engineering, or any other branch, the focus should be on a supportive academic environment and personal passion.