Experiences and Reactions of North Indian Students at SRM University

SRM University Sri Ramaswamy Memorial Institute of Science and Technology is a diverse institution with students from various regions of India and international backgrounds. In general, the treatment of students from North India can vary based on individual experiences and the specific campus culture. However, there have been notable cases of bullying and mistreatment, which can significantly impact the academic and social experience of these students.

Diversity and Inclusion

SRM often promotes a culture of diversity and inclusion, encouraging students from different regions to interact and collaborate. This can create a welcoming environment for North Indian students. Cultural exchanges among students from different parts of India, including those from North India, can foster understanding and appreciation of diverse backgrounds.

Culture and Challenges

However, it's important to note that the experiences of North Indian students can be tainted by cultural and linguistic differences. Language barriers may occasionally create challenges in communication among students. The incident described by one of the classmate is a prime example of the struggles that some North Indian students face. He was bullied and lost interest in studies due to the actions of certain goons at SRM University.

Bullying and Discrimination

The distressing experiences of one particular student serve as a stark reminder of the negative impact that bullying and bias can have on the academic and personal well-being of North Indian students. The classmate, who is an intellectual and academically gifted, faced relentless harassment and discrimination. He was bullied by a Tamil student and found the professors lenient towards locals, while his own hard work and dedication were often overlooked.

Examples of mistreatment include project credit being given to a local student despite his own contributions, unwarranted demands for money for the return of personal property, and marked absence for attending classes. These incidents not only affected his academic performance but also led to serious trauma, reflected in the dropping of his marks over the later semesters.

Impact on Academic and Social Life

The trauma and bullying experienced by North Indian students can have a profound impact on their academic and social life. The student in question even thought of dropping out, but was ultimately dissuaded by his family who believed he was homesick. This reflects a deeper issue of cultural clash and prejudice that can strain the relationships between students from different regions.

The continuous stress and negativity associated with these experiences can lead to a decline in academic achievement and a loss of hope for future career prospects. The student's marks dropped from 7.5 to 8.2 in the first and second semesters to 6.4 and 5.5 in the third and fourth semesters, respectively. The constant struggle of living in SRM and Tamil Nadu has become a deeply regrettable chapter in his life.

Conclusion

While there are various factors that contribute to the diverse experiences of students at SRM University, it's crucial for the institution to address and mitigate instances of bullying and discrimination. Promoting a more inclusive and equitable campus environment can help foster a positive academic and social atmosphere for all students, irrespective of their regional or cultural background. It is imperative that educators and administrators take steps to create a safer and more supportive environment for all students to thrive.

Keywords: SRM University, North Indian Students, Cultural Challenges