Life in an IIT: For Rajasthan native Nishtha Khatri, life at IIT Guwahati has been a transformative journey. If there’s one lesson that defines her experience, it’s this: consistency outweighs talent. According to her, small, persistent efforts eventually create extraordinary outcomes.
Why I Chose Engineering and the IITs
I was inspired to pursue engineering because of the exposure, opportunities, and learning environment that the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) offer. These institutes are known for nurturing innovation, intellectual growth, and collaboration. The chance to explore diverse career paths, coupled with early financial independence, strongly motivated me to work toward an IIT.
Growing Up in Bikaner
My hometown is Bikaner, Rajasthan — a place known for its warm people, rich heritage, and simple lifestyle. I completed my entire schooling there. I miss the peaceful evenings, the familiar “gedi” rounds with friends, and the iconic snacks — samosas, kachoris, and the famous Bikaneri sweets.
My parents have been my biggest inspiration. My mother is a science teacher, and my father works as a senior manager at Punjab National Bank. Their values of hard work, humility, and discipline shaped my mindset from a young age.
Growing up in a smaller city came with its own challenges — limited resources, fewer competitive environments, and the need for immense self-motivation, especially while preparing for the IIT JEE. But those hardships helped me develop resilience and self-belief.
My JEE Preparation Journey
I prepared for JEE through a local coaching institute in Bikaner. My routine involved long classes followed by intensive self-study. Dedicated mentorship was limited, so I often relied on online resources and guidance from IIT graduates.
The toughest part was balancing all three subjects while staying patient and consistent. Learning to focus on the process rather than getting anxious about results was a life-changing habit that continues to guide me today.
Choosing IIT Guwahati and Civil Engineering
I am currently in my fourth year of BTech in Civil Engineering at IIT Guwahati. During JoSAA counselling, my priority was getting into a reputed IIT — preferably one of the older ones. Civil Engineering appealed to me because it provides a strong foundation and keeps career options like the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) and interdisciplinary roles open.
I also considered Chemical, Mechanical, and Production Engineering in other IITs based on my rank range.
Schooling and Early Achievements
I studied till Class 10 at Sophia Senior Secondary School, where I consistently ranked among the top performers. I secured first position in my school and third in my district in the Class 10 board exams.
Sports were equally important to me — I represented my school in district-level table tennis and basketball, and later played basketball at the state level.
My First Days at IIT Guwahati
I arrived on campus in October 2022, just after Diwali. It was my first time living away from home. The beautifully decorated campus, warm hostel welcome, and the excitement of exploring a new environment made those first few days magical.
The friendships I built early on helped me adjust — from late-night study sessions and movie nights to long hostel lobby conversations. Even the mess food felt decent at first (though that changed later!).
Campus Clubs, Activities, and Leadership
At IIT Guwahati, I was eager to explore everything the campus offered. I joined:
- Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell) — part of Udgam (IITG’s Entrepreneurship Summit); became a Head in my third year
- Finance and Economics Club
- Rhinos Basketball Club
My first three years were a balance of academics and leading projects at E-Cell. Evenings were for jogging, gym sessions, and reading fiction or business books. Managing everything was challenging initially, but over time, I learned discipline, teamwork, and time management.
How IIT Guwahati Shaped Me
IIT Guwahati has made me more confident, independent, and self-aware. The freedom to experiment, lead teams, and try new ideas helped me grow beyond my comfort zone. I realized that failures are simply stepping stones and that consistency truly drives success.
Favourite Hangout Spots and Hobbies
Some of my favourite places on campus include:
- Khokha and Food Court for chai and snacks
- Academic Lake for peaceful sunset views
- Deka for Maggi and chai
- Purabi for cold coffee
I actively play basketball and table tennis, often representing my hostel. I recently tried powerlifting too, which was both challenging and exciting.
Life in Guwahati
Guwahati’s lush greenery, serene lakes, and vibrant yet calm atmosphere make it an ideal place to study and reflect. The locals are extremely warm and helpful, adding to the city’s charm.
The professors at IIT Guwahati are knowledgeable and passionate. Some of my most meaningful learning moments came from post-lecture discussions, especially in electives like foreign policy — a subject I unexpectedly fell in love with.
Opportunities and Exposure at IIT Guwahati
IITs offer an unmatched ecosystem of opportunities — in research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and extra-curricular activities. Through E-Cell, I interned with startups and participated in programmes like NEW GEN IEDC, which sparked my interest in venture building.
One area that could improve is academic flexibility for students representing the college in prestigious competitions where schedules may clash with exams.
Finances and Independence
For my first two years, I relied on a monthly allowance of ₹5,000 from my parents. By the third year, I started interning at startups and firms, which helped me gain financial independence and valuable work experience. Most of my expenses go toward food and essentials.
Future Plans
After my BTech, I aim to work at the intersection of finance and technology, ideally in a fintech company. I’m also passionate about startups and venture capital and aspire to work in VC to understand how innovation can be scaled sustainably.
Memories That Stay With Me
Some of my most cherished memories include:
- My Class 10 Physics teacher, Lata Ma’am, who encouraged understanding over rote learning
- All-nighter study sessions with my hostel friends — half studying, half laughing
- The Core 5 tea stall owner who always greeted us warmly and offered extra chai
- Long brainstorming nights at E-Cell while preparing for Udgam, surviving on coffee and lohit dosa
These small moments made IIT Guwahati feel like home.
Final Reflections
IIT Guwahati has been more than just a college — it’s been a journey of academic growth, personal transformation, and lifelong friendships. It taught me curiosity, consistency, and the value of community. Every day here brings new lessons, often through challenges, but always with growth at the end.
And through it all, one truth remains: life becomes easier and more meaningful when you have great friends by your side.
