I chose Computer Science Engineering (CSE) at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras because of my love for coding and problem-solving. I was also interested in Mathematics and Computing as a backup option. The idea of using technology to solve real-world problems fascinated me from an early age.
Being a candidate with 75 per cent low vision didn’t deter me from dreaming for a place in IIT and I appeared for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main and Advanced in 2022. I secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 1274 in Mains, and 3120 in Advanced, while in the PWD category, I was AIR 3. It was the culmination of years of focused effort.
My JEE preparation began in Warangal, Telangana, where I grew up. I studied at Shine Group of Institutions from Class 9 to 12, and their guidance was instrumental. I also relied heavily on YouTube. My strategy was simple — consistent eight-hour study days, balancing coaching and self-study, with discipline and timely breaks to avoid burnout.
My father, Ravi, runs a rice business, and my mother, Rajitha, is a homemaker. They have always been my biggest support system. Being visually challenged made my learning a challenge. But my parents chose to put me in a mainstream school instead of a special one. That decision helped me adapt to the real world early. With assistive technology and determination, I learned to push through.
Stepping foot on IIT campus for the first time, away from home, was both thrilling and terrifying. I missed home-cooked food, the familiarity of Warangal’s streets, and my childhood friends — Saiteja, Raja Narsimha, and Sathvik. But over time, I found a new rhythm here.
The transition took effort. The mess food was not easy to love at first. But I survived, thanks to canteens and Isthara food court — where biryanis, Maggi, and French fries became my go-to comfort food. Making friends helped a lot. Whether it was late-night walks, spontaneous discussions after study sessions, or last-minute assignment panics, the friendships here became my second family.
Story continues below this ad
Academically, IIT Madras pushes you. The professors are brilliant, and they challenge you to think beyond the textbook. Professor Rupesh Nasre, in particular, had a huge impact on me. His approach to creating technology — not just consuming it — changed how I think. I have also worked with the Accessibility Research Centre (ARC), which was close to my heart and aligned with my personal experiences.
IIT offers more academic flexibility and exposure to research and industry, while non-IIT colleges tend to have a more relaxed environment. The academic culture here is rigorous, and being surrounded by highly motivated peers pushes everyone to do their best.
I am not deeply into clubs yet, but I do love chess and aim to compete in Inter-IIT Chess tournament next year. I also play some indoor games. Due to my disability, I am unable to participate in outdoor sports. Most of my days are packed with classes, coding, and project work. When I get time, I watch cricket, read, or get lost in podcasts. And yes, I do go out — beaches, malls, the Himalaya lawns, — or be just chilling in my room. Chennai has grown on me — its culture, the people, the sea breeze.
IIT has made me more independent, confident, and adaptable. It has taught me to face challenges head-on and make decisions on my own.
Story continues below this ad
Consistency is the key — no matter how talented you are, without regular effort, success is difficult. Another important lesson: tough times pass, and life is a mix of ups and downs.
I carefully budget my monthly allowance and avoid unnecessary spending. The living costs here are reasonable, and I also receive financial support from the government.
Whenever I go out of campus, I enjoy talking to people from different backgrounds. Over time, some of these conversations have turned into genuine friendships. It’s always interesting to hear about their lives, experiences, and perspectives, which help me understand the world better.
Late-night study sessions that turned into philosophical discussions, last-minute assignment submissions, and late-night walks around campus — these are moments I’ll always treasure.
Story continues below this ad
And in all this, I still carry Warangal with me — the warmth of home, the love of my family, and the memories with friends who believed in me before I believed in myself.
I see myself either working in a top tech company or using technology to make a positive impact on society. I am also considering preparing for the UPSC exam.
