BS (Electronic Systems)
Life’s detours often lead to unexpected destinations. Venkata Subhash Munnaluru, from Nellore, achieved an impressive 99 percentile in JEE, only to face a student’s worst nightmare: an error during the counseling process prevented him from securing admission to a traditional IIT program. Yet, this setback marked the beginning of a journey that brought him clarity and, ultimately, an internship at IIT Hyderabad.
He recalls a pivotal moment when conversations with professors and mentors helped him cut through the noise and ultimately pursue the BS in Electronic Systems at IIT Madras. “I never thought of pursuing a degree in an online setup,” he admits. “But now that I’m doing it, I really enjoy the process of developing concepts and understanding subjects deeply.” It wasn’t just about continuing his education, but about shifting his perspective, discovering a new way to learn, grow, and apply knowledge meaningfully.
Currently in BS level of the BS in Electronic Systems program, Venkata is not only excelling academically but also actively exploring research opportunities, to apply his knowledge in real-world applications. What stood out in our conversation was his admiration for the teaching approach in the ES program. “The professors make learning interesting by breaking down complex concepts into easily understandable insights. They simplify even the toughest topics by meeting students at their level, ensuring clarity and comprehension”, he says.
He emphasizes that despite being an online program, the ES degree never feels distant or incomplete, thanks to its well-integrated lab sessions. “It’s well-structured; nothing feels missing,” he shares. “We have all the lab kits and materials at home, allowing us to perform hands-on experiments that directly reflect what we learn in class.” These sessions transform tough concepts into tangible understanding, making learning not just theoretical but experiential. For Venkatesh, this practical component is one of the program’s biggest strengths as it bridges the gap between virtual lectures and real-world application.
A pivotal moment for Venkata occurred during his Teaching Assistantship (TA), where his interactions with professors directly led to an internship at IIT Hyderabad. There, he applied his coursework knowledge of “Compressive Sensing.” He reflects, “I once thought I couldn’t even get into an IIT—much less study at one and intern at another. It’s been a surprising and incredibly rewarding journey.”
The program’s innovative approach extends beyond regular coursework, be it through Paradox workshops, diploma-level projects, or expert talks.
“The Paradox workshops are really good,” Venkata notes. “They help you get insights about a topic from someone who is an expert in that field. That really motivates me. This blend of academics and real-world exposure is strengthened by industry-linked diploma projects, turning learning into career opportunities.
“Not just professors, but industry experts also teach,” Venkata adds.
Venkata has witnessed the continuous evolution in terms of opportunities and support. The course has offered experiences beyond his expectations – one of them being the opportunity to interview IITM Director Dr. V. Kamakoti during an online session, an experience that added another layer of confidence and exposure. Aspiring to pursue higher studies, Venkata views his foundation from IITM’s BS program as more than just a degree – it’s a gateway to endless possibilities.
