Differences and Success Factors in Indian Business and Engineering Students from Top Schools
India is home to some of the best business schools and engineering colleges, with many aspiring students applying to prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) and the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). However, a fundamental question persists: what are the real differences between students from Tier 1 and Tier 2 schools in India, particularly in the realms of IIMs and IITs? Why do some students excel while others struggle even after being placed in esteemed institutions?
Entrance Tests and Admissions
When discussing the differences between students from top B-schools or engineering colleges in India, we often find that the distinction is not as pronounced as it may seem. Most of the top 20 colleges receive the finest and most hardworking students from across the country. Entrance tests, in many cases, are a matter of chance—a single point difference can mean the difference between the best college and one just below it. Sure, there are extremely gifted students who make up a small fraction of the total intake, but for the most part, these schools attract students who are intelligent and hardworking but not necessarily the top of the top.
Success in the Business World
The business world, much like the tech world, values above-average intelligence. The goal is not merely to excel academically but to grasp the intricacies of business operations quickly and to be adept at problem-solving. Most of the students who work their way through a 2-year MBA or a 4-year B Tech program come from the category of students who balance hard work with a reasonable level of intelligence. These students tend to do exceedingly well in their chosen career paths.
Profiles of Top College Students
I have had the pleasure of working with hundreds of students from various top Indian institutions, including IITs, such as those in Bombay, Kanpur, and Delhi, along with IIMs like ABCLK, NITIE, SPJ Welingkar, and MDI. Most of these students share a common trait: a robust work ethic. They are proactive, persistent, and highly committed to their goals. Despite coming from Tier 1 and Tier 2 schools, the majority of these students do not give up easily. This resilience is often the key to their success.
Conclusion
In summary, the differences between students from Tier 1 and Tier 2 schools in India, especially when it comes to IIMs and IITs, are not as significant as they might appear. The entrance process is a mix of rigorous testing and sheer luck. While there are exceptional students, the majority of those who succeed in these institutions are diligent and committed individuals. The key to success in these competitive fields is a blend of hard work, adaptability, and a strong work ethic.
Whether you are from an IIM or an IIT, success in the business and engineering worlds is largely determined by your ability to exhibit these qualities. It’s not just about where you go to school but how you approach your studies and career.