Indian Institute of Technology B.Tech Review By Rishit Jain

There is a perception that IIT (ISM) Dhanbad is a new institute, but reality is the polar opposite. It's the third oldest universities amongst all IITs; hence, it does not have any issues that the new IITs face. The institute has clubs for *everything* that you would ever want! These are well established old clubs that win awards every year! One bad thing about IIT (ISM) is that it doesn't market itself properly, but, it feels that as the administration is changing, this problem is slowly getting resolved.

I am first year student in the Mathematics and Computing branch. Branch change option is available; hence, it can get competitive in first year. The whole undergraduate student body is divided into two groups, the first group learns subjects such as finance, engineering graphics, economics, physics, mechanics, mathematics, etc. While the second learns Chemistry, mathematics, English communication skills, manufacturing processes, etc. There are modular courses such as electrical Engineering, electronics engineering, earth sciences and environmental sciences for both groups. The group's switch subjects in the next semester.

There are well equipped labs for the respective subjects. I was specially fascinated by the equipment in the central workshop which falls under the mechanical engineering department! We can learn and explore 3D printing, laser cutting, welding, machining, etc with all the different machines provided in the workshops! I didn't like the chemistry faculty and lab at all...they are way too arrogant and stubborn. The remaining faculty is very professional and kind. Almost all the professors I interacted with were very involved with the students as long as you showed enthusiasm!

This institute was famous for its mining, petroleum placements, which are still fabulous! But, the best branch placements are for mathematics and computing...

The institute has a total of 13 hostels....the latest being Aquamarine, 2000 boys hostel with MASSIVE rooms, 13 floors! It's the largest hostel amongst all IITs! All other hostels are very pleasant to live in and have well planned infrastructure. Undoubtedly, the first year rooms are a little small for two people, but it's manageable.

The campus has all the imaginable amenities that are expected from an IIT, like a Olympic size pool, all kinds of sports courts, sports arena, etc. The student activity centre houses the gymnasium, 6 badminton courts, all club rooms, other sports equipment, etc. Almost all hostels have separate courts as well, for example, the first year hostel, Amber, has 5 badminton courts and a basketball court as well. The heritage buildings are a sight to behold! Especially at night, it's an awesome experience to roam around with friends in the breeze. We also have Asia's second largest technical library, don't get lost in it.

Campus Life is fun! I cherish the friends I made here more than anything else....you can find people who are good at things you wished to be and learn from them! It's a homely feel and I didn't miss my home even once...the cultural events, club events, fests, etc. always bring a thrill to daily academically oriented life. The most recent fest, Concetto, was an unforgettable experience! Just watch the three day vlogs by Lights Camera ISM on YouTube to catch a glimpse!