BS (Electronics Science)
Not every dream works out the way we imagine – but sometimes, what replaces it turns out to be even better. Kajal Sanwal’s journey didn’t begin with certainty. It began with a setback, a moment where things didn’t go as planned. But instead of stopping there, she chose a different path – one that slowly helped her rediscover confidence, purpose, and direction. Kajal enrolled in the IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems as a standalone degree, without fully knowing how much it would shape her future.
What started as an alternative soon became a space where she could grow at her own pace. The flexibility of the program gave her something valuable – time to explore, build, and understand herself better.
In the beginning, things weren’t easy. Adjusting from school life to a competitive environment came with challenges, and she mostly kept to herself, focusing only on studies. But that changed over time. Experiences like her first Paradox in 2024 gradually helped her open up and see the world around her differently. She began opening up, participating more, and stepping into experiences she once avoided. Over time, this shift reflected both personally and professionally.
Her first internship at Blue Armor as a project intern came through the BS program itself, where she worked closely with Hardware Systems and Optimization Techniques. It wasn’t just about completing tasks – it was about understanding how real systems function. The experience was so impactful that it led to a pre-placement offer, marking an early milestone in her journey.
What stood out even more were the choices Kajal made afterward. Rather than chasing every opportunity, she focused on building her skills, exploring web development from the fundamentals to full-stack projects.
By prioritizing depth over speed, she laid a strong foundation for the future.
Managing everything wasn’t simple. Internships, coursework, and personal goals often demanded attention together. Instead of relying on usual methods, she built her own system – a Personal Dashboard that tracked habits, progress, and productivity. It became her way of staying consistent and organized.
Campus experiences added another dimension. From participating in events to taking up leadership roles, she gradually moved from being an observer to an active contributor. Working as a Teaching Assistant (TA) further strengthened her understanding while helping others learn.
What makes this journey stand out is not just the achievements, but the mindset behind them. She learned that growth often comes with letting go – of doubts, distractions, and sometimes even people who don’t align with your path. Over time, her circle became smaller, but stronger.
Looking ahead, her focus is clear. She aims to step into the world of technology with strong skills, meaningful projects, and the confidence she built along the way. The goal isn’t just to reach a destination, but to keep learning and evolving.
Through everything she experienced, Kajal came to believe that setbacks should never decide someone’s future. She feels that taking time to learn, building skills patiently, and staying consistent matters far more than following a perfectly planned path. Sometimes, the journey you never expected becomes the one that shapes you the most.
~written by Pushpanjali
