IIT Education: A Barrier or a Facilitator in Engineering Success?
The question of whether one should have studied at an IIT (Indian Institutes of Technology) to become a successful engineer is a contentious one. Many argue that IITs provide an excellent foundation, while others believe that success is more about personal drive and desire. This article explores these viewpoints and provides insights into the hidden factors that often determine an engineer's success.
personal experience: The Challenges of Non-IIT Graduates
My journey as a graduate from a non-IIT, NIT, IISC, or NPTI institution highlights the challenges faced by many engineers who did not receive an IIT education. Despite my proficiency in various mechanical CAD/CAM/CIM/CAE tools and material sciences, securing a stable and financially rewarding engineering role was a struggle. Recruiters expressed doubts about my skills and knowledge, leading me to accept three jobs and four internships with progressively lower wages. Consistently low earnings made it difficult to manage personal expenses, and the issue persists even to this day.
The problem lies deeply ingrained in Indian industry culture, where discrimination is pervasive. Regardless of your background or societal status, your skills and knowledge are often underrated. This cultural bias forces everyone to undergo aptitude tests to determine their potential roles within a company. These assessments decide your career path, often overlooking your own capabilities and emphasizing standardized metrics.
The Parable of the Young Man and Socrates
To understand the true essence of success, let us explore a wise saying from an ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates. Once, a young man approached Socrates seeking advice on the secret of success. Instead of delivering an elaborate response, Socrates took the young man to a river and, to his surprise, dunked him under the water. The young man struggled for survival, but Socrates kept him submerged until he started turning blue. Only then was the man able to gasp for air.
Socrates posed the question, "What did you desperately want when you were under the water?" The man responded, "Air!" Socrates then revealed, "This is the secret to success. You must desire success as you do air. There is no other secret."
From this parable, it becomes apparent that the most critical factor in achieving success is the desire and drive to succeed, rather than the institution one attends. Whether you are from an IIT or a non-IIT background, it is your unwavering ambition that will propel you towards success.
The Power of Desire: Eklavya's Inspiring Story
To further illustrate the importance of desire, let us look at the story of Eklavya. Despite being rejected by the renowned Guru Dronacharya, Eklavya's intense desire to become a great bowman motivated him to practice secretly and succeed even without the privilege of joining the best gurukul. His persistence and passion allowed him to become an extraordinary archer, proving that the opportunity to learn from great teachers is not the only path to mastery.
Similarly, in the modern era, countless engineers have risen to the top without attending an IIT. The success of these individuals lies in their determination and dedication to their craft. Whether you are someone who graduated from an IIT or not, your success is directly proportional to your desire to become a better engineer. There are numerous instances of non-IIT engineers who have excelled in their fields, defying expectations and breaking stereotypes.
Conclusion: Embrace Your Inner Potential
In conclusion, the secret to becoming a successful engineer lies within you. As Swami Vivekananda once said, "All power is within you. You can do anything and everything. Believe in that, do not believe that you are weak, and do not believe that you are half-crazy lunatics as most of us do nowadays. You can do anything and everything without even the guidance of any one. Stand up and express the divinity within you."
Educational background is just one aspect of your journey, and success is more about your personal drive and ambition. If you have the desire to become a better engineer, no obstacle can stop you. Your potential is immense, and you have the capability to achieve great things if you believe in yourself and your abilities.