A Deep Dive into Computer Science Education at BPIT
As a current or prospective undergraduate student of computer science at BPIT, you might find yourself asking many questions. One of the most common questions from aspiring students and their concerned parents is about the quality and experience of the educational experience. In this article, I will share my insights based on my personal experiences, aimed to provide a balanced view rather than a one-sided perspective.
Qualification of Professors
As an undergraduate student, one of the first considerations is the qualifications and experience of the professors who will be teaching you. To be clear, BPIT, like many other institutions in India, faces the challenge of hiring qualified professors. In fact, what you might find surprising is that some professors at BPIT seem to have no idea about the subjects they are teaching. Many of the professors lack clear understanding of the core fields of computer science, evident from frequent failures to answer basic questions during lectures.
For instance, during my first semester, I encountered a mathematics teacher who could not solve a question about definite integrals, despite holding a Master's degree in mathematics. This highlights a significant gap in the foundational skills that students require in computer science. Elite institutions in computer science and engineering are successful because their educators have a strong grasp of mathematical fundamentals and programming ideologies. At BPIT, the approach often leans towards memorization, with a distorted view that mathematics is irrelevant to computer science.
Research Opportunities
The level of research conducted at BPIT is a critical aspect to consider. The answer to whether BPIT is engaged in meaningful research lies in the broader context of what research means. Research in this context refers to the focused, systematic investigation into the core subjects of computer science. BPIT, like many other institutions, faces challenges in intensively engaging in research due to limited resources and a focus on teaching.
Placements in Computer Science
When it comes to placements, the situation at BPIT is challenging. Students must actively seek out companies and opportunities, and there is often a significant element of luck involved. While some students have secured placements with reputable firms like the Royal Bank of Scotland, these successes are the result of individual student effort rather than significant institutional support. The college authorities play a supportive role, but the primary responsibility lies with the students to network, apply, and ace interviews.
The current situation is not ideal, but it is crucial to approach placements with a proactive mindset. Despite the challenges, there are several strategies that can enhance your chances:
Scout and Apply: Actively look for job opportunities and internship programs, even outside of campus placements. Competitive Programming: Participate in and excel in competitive programming contests such as CodeChef, TopCoder, and Codeforces. These platforms not only hone your coding skills but also provide exposure to real-world coding challenges. Online Education and MOOCs: Leverage online platforms to enhance your skills. Websites like Coursera (Coursera), Udacity (Udacity), edX (edX), and MIT OpenCourseWare (MIT OpenCourseWare) offer world-class courses collaboratively provided by universities globally. Continuous Learning: Engage in continuous learning and skill development. Participate in forums, discussions, and communities to interact with motivated students and professionals.Ultimately, the key to excelling in computer science at BPIT lies in your willingness to take initiative, stay curious, and continuously improve your skills. The journey may be challenging, but the rewards are immense. As you navigate through your undergraduate years, remember to stay happy and driven. Here's to your success!