From JEE Preparation to Global Opportunities: An IIT Mandi Student's Story
Rishang Yadav, a third-year undergraduate in the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) department at IIT Mandi, has transformed his childhood fascination with science fiction into a reality of international research and internships. His journey, marked by rigorous preparation and seizing opportunities, showcases how IITs serve as gateways to global excellence.
The Foundation: JEE Journey and Early Motivation
Yadav's formal JEE journey began in 2023, with appearances in both January and April sessions of JEE Main, followed by JEE Advanced in May. He secured an All India Rank of 4923 in JEE Advanced and 2954 in JEE Main. Despite phases of exhaustion and feeling overwhelmed during coaching, his genuine enjoyment of the preparation process kept him motivated. "I stayed in the process for the love of the game itself," he recalls, highlighting the dedication required for such competitive exams.
His early interest in technology was sparked by science fiction, which evolved into a curiosity about real-world applications. Choosing Computer Science as his fifth subject in Class 12 provided his first structured exposure to programming, solidifying his decision to pursue CSE. While considering other specializations like Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at various IITs, CSE remained his clear preference, leading him to IIT Mandi.
Adapting to Life at IIT Mandi
Hailing from Chintamanpur in Bihar, with an upbringing across multiple cities due to his father's service in the Indian Air Force, Yadav joined IIT Mandi on August 5, 2023. The initial adjustment to being away from family was eased by the breathtaking mountain views and the supportive community. Orientation week played a crucial role, as he interacted with peers and realized that many shared similar emotions, turning the transition into a collective experience.
Beyond academics, Yadav immersed himself in campus life by joining four clubs: the Quizzing Club, Writing Club, Robotics Club, and Team Deimos, the Mars Rover team. He served as coordinator for the Quizzing Club and is currently co-lead of Team Deimos. Balancing these activities with academics was challenging but manageable with the help of friends and a focus on attending lectures to reduce later workload. "At IIT, survival and success are all about striking the right balance," he emphasizes.
Global Exposure and Internships
IIT Mandi has opened doors to international opportunities for Yadav. He is currently an exchange student at RWTH Aachen University in Germany, nominated by his institute. Additionally, he has been selected as a robotics software development intern at RORZE Corporation in Japan. These experiences have allowed him to engage with global research ecosystems and travel to countries like France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, fostering both academic and personal growth.
His internships include working on a course management system under the Deanery of Academics and developing software for a smart wheelchair with the iHub and HCi Foundation in robotics. These projects honed his problem-solving skills and ability to handle deadlines, preparing him for future challenges in the field.
Support Systems and Personal Growth
Yadav credits the approachable professors at IIT Mandi for their unwavering support. In one instance, a professor wrote a last-minute Letter of Recommendation at 11:30 pm to meet an internship deadline, demonstrating the institute's commitment to student success. Financially, he maintains a monthly budget of Rs 3,000, supplemented by internships within the institute, showcasing his resourcefulness.
Reflecting on his journey, Yadav notes that IIT has instilled confidence and exposed him to countless opportunities. "After four years, your biggest achievement shouldn't be that you are an IITian," he says, striving to build an identity beyond the institute's tag. His daily life at IIT Mandi included classes, table tennis tournaments, upskilling sessions, and late-night gatherings with friends, creating lasting memories.
Looking Ahead
Looking forward, Yadav aims to delve deeper into robotics and continue traveling globally with similar goals. He acknowledges that while IIT provided opportunities, lifelong friendships, and global exposure, it is how he leverages these experiences that defines his journey. "In the end, it's not just about academics or clubs, but the people you meet along the way," he concludes, highlighting the holistic growth fostered at IIT Mandi.
