Shabab Anwar’s Post

From 6-Point GPA to Lifelong Lessons: Reflections from IIT Roorkee: There’s this race, right? This fierce, all-consuming competition among students to get into THE Institution that supposedly guarantees success. Growing up, we’re taught that getting into a pedigree institution is the only way to make it in life. I was no exception. My target was IIT. It felt like the holy grail of success—and I made it. But now, more than 12 years since leaving those iconic walls of IIT Roorkee, I look back and wonder: What did those four years really give me? Was it the grueling course structure? The cutthroat competition? Or the lifelong friendships that shaped me in ways no textbook ever could? For me, it has been a bit of everything. But let’s be real—academics? Not my strong suit. I scraped by with a 6-pointer GPA (yes, survival at its finest 😅). So, no, I didn’t leave with academic laurels, but what I did gain was priceless life skills. Here’s what truly stood out: 🔹 Getting sh*t done under pressure – When you have an assignment due at midnight and you start working on it at 11:45 PM, you learn the art of working with speed and precision. Deadlines were brutal, but they taught me how to perform under fire. 🔹 Thriving amidst fierce competition – When every peer around you is brilliant, you realize quickly that the key isn’t just about being smart—it’s about persistence, adaptability, and sheer grit. 🔹 Friendships that transcend time – The bonds we built during those late-night chai breaks, chaotic campus life, and hostel pranks have stood the test of time. Those friends, forged in the pressure cooker of IIT life, are still some of my closest people today. 🔹 Inspiring batchmates doing incredible things – Fast forward a decade, and my batchmates are doing some truly phenomenal things—building startups, leading companies, or just excelling in their own right. Watching their journeys continues to inspire me to push boundaries every day. So, here’s the takeaway: Getting into a top-tier college isn’t the only path to success. Yes, IIT played a pivotal role in my journey—but not just through academics. It taught me how to build relationships, work under pressure, and find inspiration in those around me. Life isn’t about where you start; it’s about the network you build, the lessons you learn, and the friendships you cherish. And sometimes, the most valuable part of the journey is figuring out that success is much bigger than just a degree or a GPA.

Online IIT vs. Offline IIT 🤜🤛 Round 3 is here! This is the third post of our 5-post series. The score is tied at 1-1. Can 'Offie' take the lead again? Or will ‘Onnie’ dominate this round? Let's figure out. GAME ON PEOPLE! Round 3: Competition and Success Rate (This is a critical one 🧐) Online IIT: Hey, Offie! What about the competition? Getting into you is so much of a havoc! Your entrance exams are like Bollywood these days— infinite input and zero output 🤭 Many talented folks drop out before they even start, crushed under the weight of your intense 'JEE'. Meanwhile, I’m all about inclusivity. Just clear my qualifier exam, and you’re in, no drama! Offline IIT: No doubt, our entrance exams are tough. But that's what makes us the cream of the crop! Only the toughest nuts crack it, ensuring our standards stay sky-high 😎 Online IIT: Tough nuts, huh? More like you’re squeezing students like lemons in a juicer! My folks don’t have to deal with the existential crisis of failing a single exam. They learn at their pace. No Stress, Just Success. And DON’T FORGET... I am open for all ages! Ever heard of EQUALITY? Ohh sorry, you are the reservation one! Offline IIT: Shut up, Onnie! Struggle is what actually builds character. We mold future leaders who can handle pressure-cooker situations like pros. Online IIT: Ohh, really? And how many of the aspirants just fade away in the pressure? My crew, on the other hand, sticks around because they’ve got the flexibility to balance life and learning. They have the choice to complete the 4-year degree in 8 years. They also have multiple exit choices. REAL FLEXIBILITY! Offline IIT: Ohh, poor Onnie! Check your stats again. Majority of your students don't even complete the entire degree. They're missing out on the real deal! Our grads, on the other hand, walk out ready to conquer the world 💪 Online IIT: True, but who needs world domination when you’ve got a work-life balance? My peeps can earn and learn without sacrificing sanity or social life. You know, no missing a friend's birthday bash for Online IIT 😉 Offline IIT: Ok ok. But nothing beats the prestige of being an IITian. Everybody’s a gangsta till a REAL IITIAN enters the room! Our tag carries weight 🤘 Online IIT: Tags are cool, but accessibility is cooler. I’m giving more folks a shot at quality, modern-age education without the drama. I’d say 9/10 for making it open for all and keeping it stress-free 😌 Offline IIT: I’ll take 7/10 for maintaining our elite standards. But this round, you’ve got me, Online 🤝 ---- 2-1 for Online. IT'S GETTING INTENSE PEOPLE! Bring on Round 4 💪 Was ‘Online’ A Clear Winner Here? Comment ‘Yes’ if you agree 👇 #IIT #Online #Offline #Competition #SuccessRate

"Oh, you're from IIT? You must be very smart!" It’s a common perception that being from IIT automatically means you’re among the brightest. And yes, some of the sharpest minds do go to IIT. But let’s also acknowledge a larger truth—academics, while important, aren’t everything. The reality is that only about 5% of those who write JEE Advanced make it into IIT, and even fewer secure the stream of their choice. For many, the journey is more about the brand and the tag than about aligning with their true interests or goals. But does getting into IIT—or any elite institution—mean you’re among the “best of the best” in the country? Not necessarily. It means you’re part of the best minds, yes, but talent and potential are far more widespread than any single exam or institution can capture. What truly matters is what you do with your education. Success today isn’t defined by where you studied but by the skills you demonstrate and the value you create. Organizations like Google, NASA, and Facebook are increasingly looking for proven skills and talent, with academic credentials often carrying the least weight in their decisions. Yet, many parents and students remain fixated on the NEET/JEE mindset, believing it’s the only path to a successful career. This often comes at a high cost—students lose out on a critical window to develop essential thinking, social, and problem-solving skills, all because of the intense and rigid preparation schedule imposed on them. This isn’t about dismissing traditional paths like engineering or medicine. For some, these are the right choices. But for many others, the same rigid focus leads to frustration, burnout, and, often, unrealized dreams. So, I ask parents: Do you want to raise a bonsai—beautiful but limited in its growth—or a sprawling banyan tree, strong and enduring, that stands tall for generations? The choice lies in how we nurture our children—not just academically, but holistically. Let’s encourage them to explore, grow, and find their true potential. FutureCaptains

I failed to qualify for IIT-JEE by lots of marks ☹️ because I didn’t prepare for it. . . . Getting into IIT was like everyone's my dream too. Not just for me, but this dream shatters for millions every year.📈 What I lost by not getting a IIT ?? Now I can say nothing as such but few things which I need to highlight is: I didn’t explore much on sports ⚽️ I didn’t get good campus I didn’t get a highly qualified teacher I didn’t get a good food. I didn’t get a good placement in top companies. But this all you can achieve without IIT degree also. Now a days people’s selling the dreams of IIT and crore of placement that is totally misguiding students and parents. Hope you will understand and don’t be influenced by today worlds. Peoples are telling you lie 99% of times. Be Aware. Follow for more such content: https://lnkd.in/gtA7C4BH

Online IIT vs. Offline IIT Which is better 🤔 Hey Linkfam... I am starting a series of 5 posts where I will compare Online IIT with Offline IIT. Background? I am pursuing the online BS Degree in Data Science and Applications from IIT Madras. While my sister, Mahak Chhabra, has completed her MSc in Chemistry this year from IIT Bombay. So, let's cut the fluff... Game On! Round 1: 'Learning Environment' Online IIT: Hey, Offline IIT! Ever tried attending a lecture in pajamas? The comfort of learning from home is unbeatable. It gets so off in offline 😏 Offline IIT: Oh please, Online IIT! Nothing beats the energy of a live classroom. The interactions, the immediate feedback from professors—just priceless! Online IIT: Sure, sure. Only if you like waking up early and dealing with commutes. I can watch a lecture anytime and any number of times. Can you do that? Offline IIT: True, but can you feel the vibe of the campus from your couch? The spontaneous debates, the discussions and those problem-solving sessions—that is REAL learning. Online IIT: I admit, there's something special about being on campus. But hey, I offer the freedom to learn at your own pace. Missed a point? Just rewind! Offline IIT: You got me there. But let's not forget, nothing compares to the motivation from peers around you. That's why I still edge you out! Online IIT: Hey! Just ask my students. They enjoy not dealing with that everyday attendance. And and and...they don't even need to attend all lectures. Just submit your assignment before the deadline 😉 Offline IIT: Yeah, because your lectures are so boring to watch. There is nothing better than the live experience in THE IIT! I'm actually cool 😎 And you just pretend to be one 😝 Online IIT: You are the old thing. I am the new age stuff. Ok, let's agree that both have their perks. But in terms of flexibility and convenience, I think I deserve 8/10. Offline IIT: And I'll keep 9/10 for the unbeatable learning environment on campus. Round one goes to me 💪💪 Do you think the scores are fair enough? How would you rate Online and Offline for this round... Tell me in the comments 👇 #IIT #Online #Offline #Learning #Environment

Is IIT masters all about big packages🤔? People usually talk about joining IIT only for placement. If you don't get good placement from IIT, then they say what's the use of doing masters. Actually, IIT is not only about placement; it is all about exposure; you cannot learn rocket science in 2 years; it is about working with and staying with the best of minds in our country, meeting with the people who we have just heard about or just seen, and working with such people and making connections. In IIT, no one talked about placement; if you talk about placement with any professor, they just say you will get good placement; you don't have to prioritize it. After joining IIT, you will start looking beyond placement; you will be able to see people are doing so many things apart from studying. Also, campus life 🤩 at IIT is the next level that no one talked about, also fest, and all keep on happening entire the year. At the end, you will have that IIT tag💖 with you. Do you agree 🤩?

In an age where tech startups and digital celebrities are making headlines, does an IIT degree still have the same impact? With alternatives like coding bootcamps, online courses, and entrepreneurial ventures on the rise, is the IIT degree losing its edge? Are we seeing a new trend where traditional education no longer guarantees success? Is the IIT degree losing its exclusivity and becoming just another degree in a sea of options? Are young professionals opting for paths that promise quicker returns and more excitement? Is the IIT brand struggling to keep up with the pace of change in today’s dynamic job market? Or is it that the IIT name will forever stand strong, despite changing trends? Can the IIT legacy adapt to modern demands, or is it slowly becoming a relic? What’s your take? Does IIT still matter, or is it time to rethink its role in our careers? #IIToverrated #careerchoices

10 Reasons Why IIT Delhi Should Be Your First Choice (Just My POV) As an IIT Delhi student, here’s why I believe it stands out among other IITs and why I choose IITD over other IITs except Bombay kyunki woh nahi milta tbh ;⁠) ...... but I am satisfied and i think iitd environment is totally different from other iits. 1. Top-notch Faculty: IIT Delhi boasts a faculty of global repute. Many professors here are leaders in their fields, with years of international research and industry experience. 2. Location Advantage: Being in the capital, IIT Delhi provides easy access to top companies, industry experts, government bodies, and cultural experiences. The opportunities here—internships, collaborations, and professional networks—are unmatched. 3. Entrepreneurship Ecosystem (my favourite) : If you’re inclined towards entrepreneurship, IIT Delhi is a hotspot for startups. From incubators like the Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT) to various startup support programs, you'll get all the resources to build and scale your own venture. 4. Open Electives ( The best thing about iitd) : The flexibility of IIT Delhi’s curriculum allows you to take electives from any other branch. Want to explore management, computer science, or even design? You’re free to build your skills beyond your core discipline. 5. Strong Alumni Network: With an alumni base that spans across global industries, IIT Delhi’s network is not only large but highly influential. Many alumni are in leadership positions worldwide and are always ready to mentor and support current students. 6. Unmatched Research Opportunities: From cutting-edge projects in Quantum Computing to AI and Sustainable Energy, IIT Delhi offers incredible research opportunities. You can collaborate with international institutions and publish groundbreaking work. 7. Placements & Internships: IIT Delhi consistently ranks among the top IITs in terms of placements. Top companies, both domestic and international, regularly recruit from here, offering competitive salaries and prestigious roles. 8. Clubs & Campus Life ( Ofc the campus is small but the life here is huge ) : IIT Delhi is more than academics. With vibrant student-run clubs—ranging from technical to cultural and business domains—there’s always something happening. The annual Rendezvous festival is one of India’s biggest college fests, bringing together talent from across the country. 9. Global Exposure: Whether it’s through exchange programs, conferences, or international collaborations, IIT Delhi provides ample opportunities to gain global exposure and work on international projects. 10. The IIT Tag: Let’s not forget, the IIT tag itself opens doors globally. At IIT Delhi, you’re not just preparing for a job—you’re preparing to make an impact in the world. #IITDelhi #WhyIITD #Entrepreneurship #Research #Placements #CampusLife #AlumniNetwork #GlobalExposure #Startups #EducationMatters view from my iitd udaigiri hostel...

Didn't Crack IIT JEE? Here's Why You're Still a Winner! The IIT JEE can feel like a mountain to climb, and let's be honest, sometimes even the most prepared climbers don't reach the peak. But here's the thing: reaching the summit isn't the only way to have an incredible adventure. ♀️ Here are a few reasons why not cracking the IIT JEE doesn't mean your future is any less bright: **Uncharted Territory! ** IIT JEE might have been your initial destination, but that doesn't mean there aren't amazing universities and colleges all over India offering fantastic engineering programs. This is your chance to explore new options and discover hidden gems! You might even stumble upon a completely different field that sparks a whole new passion. Sharpened Skills = Real-World Ready! ️ The intense preparation for IIT JEE has equipped you with some seriously valuable skills. Analytical thinking, problem-solving under pressure, time management like a boss – these are assets that translate beautifully into any academic or professional path you choose. Consider it bonus training for your future success! **Resilience is the New Black. ** Not getting the result you wanted can feel like a setback, but it's actually a chance to build resilience – a crucial skill for navigating life's inevitable challenges. You've faced a tough obstacle, learned from it, and come out stronger. This experience will serve you well as you tackle future goals, teaching you perseverance and the ability to adapt to any situation. **Discover Your True Calling! ** Maybe deep down, engineering wasn't your ultimate passion. This is your chance to explore other interests you might have put on hold while focusing on the exam. Who knows, you might have a hidden talent for design, a knack for coding, or a burning desire to pursue something entirely different! This is your chance to uncover your true calling and chase your passions. Your Future is Still Blazing Bright! ☀️ One exam doesn't define your potential. There are countless successful engineers and professionals who didn't crack the IIT JEE. Focus on your strengths, keep learning and growing, and never stop striving for excellence. The best is yet to come! Remember, the journey to success is rarely a straight line – sometimes the most unexpected detours lead to the most incredible destinations. #iitjee #engineering #careeradvice #motivation #nevergiveup #futurebright #linkedin #learning #growthmindset

Getting into an IIT is a dream for many Indian students. The prestigious tag, world-class education, and potential career prospects make it a worthy goal. But is it the ultimate goal? Sure, acing the entrance exam and securing a seat in your dream IIT is a fantastic accomplishment. It reflects years of hard work, dedication, and a thirst for knowledge. But think of it as the launchpad, not the final destination. Why? → IITs open doors to a world of possibilities. You'll be surrounded by brilliant minds, world-class faculty, and cutting-edge research opportunities. This is your chance to explore new fields, develop your passions, and discover exactly what ignites your spark. → The IIT experience is much more than textbooks and exams. It's about building strong relationships, participating in vibrant extracurriculars, and developing well-rounded leadership skills. → The IIT tag gives you the credibility and network to chase your wildest dreams, be it founding the next unicorn startup or tackling global challenges. Some ways to think beyond the IIT tag: → Explore different subjects, delve into research projects, and participate in hackathons. → Take up leadership roles in clubs, participate in debates, or volunteer for a cause you care about. → Connect with professors, alumni, and industry leaders. Build relationships that will open doors to future opportunities. → Don't let anyone limit your ambitions. The IIT education empowers you to make a real difference in the world. The point is, IIT is a springboard. The direction you take your career is entirely your own. So, celebrate your accomplishment, but remember, it's just the beginning of an exciting journey. Chase your dreams, explore your options, and make the most of the incredible opportunities that lie ahead. #IIT #IITian #story