BS (Electronics Science)
For S. Karthikeya from Hyderabad, college life has meant balancing two demanding degrees. He is pursuing a B.Tech in Electronics and Communication Engineering at Geethanjali College of Engineering alongside the IIT Madras BS Degree in Electronic Systems. Managing both degrees was not easy. There were classes, assignments, examinations, and deadlines from two different institutions. At many points, the pressure became difficult to handle. Karthikeya admits that he even thought of leaving the BS degree several times because of the workload.
However, over time, he realized that succeeding in both programs required discipline and consistency rather than working harder at the last moment. The BS degree played an important role in reshaping his approach to learning. According to him, the program teaches students to study regularly and build concepts gradually instead of preparing only a few days before examinations.
This change in mindset helped him improve academically. Although he faced setbacks, including failing a subject at one point, he learned to manage his time more effectively through careful planning and scheduling. He believes that this discipline helped him go from being an average student to performing better than many of his peers.
One of the BS degree’s biggest contributions, according to Karthikeya, has been the development of his problem-solving skills. The coursework encouraged him to think differently and pushed him to learn beyond the syllabus. This exposure also motivated him to participate in hackathons and explore the practical side of electronics and technology.
Apart from academics, his experience with the IIT Madras campus has also been memorable. He regularly visits the campus for Electronic Sciences laboratory sessions and has attended events such as Paradox. These visits gave him the opportunity to meet students from different backgrounds and build friendships within the BS community.
His favourite aspect of the campus is its natural environment. The forest cover and freely roaming wildlife left a strong impression on him. Outside academics, he participated in chess and basketball events and enjoyed watching movies at the Open Air Theatre.
Karthikeya also highlights the importance of the student community in the Electronic Systems program. The programme’s discussion groups and student community helped him interact with peers, clarify doubts, and stay motivated throughout the degree. He says that these communities made him feel supported during difficult phases.
Looking ahead, he is preparing for the GATE examination. He believes that the knowledge gained through the BS degree, complemented by NPTEL courses, has helped him build a strong foundation for his future goals.
For students who are managing multiple responsibilities, his advice is simple: take fewer subjects at a time and do them properly instead of trying to do everything at once. According to him, balance is the key to completing the degree successfully.
His message to students is equally straightforward: stay curious and remain consistent. Inspired by Virat Kohli, Karthikeya believes that regular effort and discipline ultimately make the biggest difference.
~written by Shambhavi Shekhar
