Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions for a student. As an alumnus of SRM Institute of Science and Technology, I’d like to share a nuanced perspective based on personal experience and observations. This isn't to sway your decision but to provide a candid viewpoint that may help you understand SRM's strengths and weaknesses more clearly.
Understanding SRM’s Reputation
SRM has often been a subject of debate when it comes to its academic value and credibility. Critics have described it as a “cash grab operation,” where the focus appears to be more on revenue generation than on providing a holistic educational experience. However, every story has two sides. While the financial aspects can be overwhelming, SRM does offer some positive aspects that cannot be ignored.
The university provides an environment of freedom. Unlike many rigid academic institutions, SRM offers its students autonomy and the liberty to explore their interests. If you’re self-motivated and capable of managing your time effectively, this can be a significant advantage. SRM’s curriculum, especially in engineering disciplines like Computer Science, gives you the flexibility to pick specializations, projects, and even certifications that align with your career goals.
Freedom to Explore
One of the key advantages of SRM is the freedom it grants its students. At SRM, you’re not micromanaged or “policed” into studying a specific way. This lack of stringent supervision means that you have the opportunity to explore programming, work on personal projects, or even start your own entrepreneurial ventures. The freedom is empowering, but it’s also a double-edged sword. Students who lack discipline might find it difficult to stay on track. In contrast, those who can channel this freedom positively often come out on top.
In my experience, this freedom allowed me to connect with faculty who were genuinely interested in research and development, enabling me to dive deep into artificial intelligence and machine learning. Faculty who teaches Python programming in AI/ML, can be valuable resources if approached the right way. However, they won’t chase after you; it’s up to you to build those relationships.
Comparing with Other Universities
Many compare SRM with VIT, MIT, and Thapar University, claiming that they are all “same wine, different bottle.” This analogy has some truth to it, especially when it comes to Computer Science Engineering (CSE). All these universities provide a comparable level of education and facilities. However, they differ in their teaching methods, campus culture, and student experience.
While SRM might lack the academic rigor that some of its counterparts have, it compensates through its vibrant campus life, international exposure, and a variety of clubs and activities that promote a well-rounded development. This is where SRM shines compared to others. The exposure and the connections you make here are unparalleled, as you get to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, not just from India but across the world.
Campus Life and Facilities
The main campus at Kattankulathur is a bustling place filled with opportunities if you know where to look. SRM is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, ranging from modern laboratories to libraries and sporting facilities. However, merely having good infrastructure isn’t enough unless you take the initiative to utilize them.
There are countless clubs at SRM—coding clubs, robotics, motorsport, music, art, sports, and more. Engaging in these extracurriculars helps build your network and skillset. I was a part of the Motorsports Club, which helped me hone my project management and teamwork skills. This experience added a unique touch to my resume and provided talking points in several job interviews.
However, one point to remember is that class attendance is taken very seriously at SRM. Missing classes without a valid reason could lead to fines or other penalties, as they keep a strict record using ID card swipes. While this might seem trivial, it’s something that can catch many students off guard.
Faculty and Support
SRM’s faculty is a mixed bag. There are some professors who go above and beyond to support students, but you’ll only get their attention if you show initiative. The relationship you build with them can open doors to internships, research opportunities, and even placements. Many students overlook this aspect and miss out on the potential mentorship and guidance that’s available.
Building a rapport with faculty members can lead to opportunities like assistantships or involvement in funded projects. This not only enriches your knowledge but also gives you practical exposure that’s valuable in the real world. I can attest to this as I was able to secure a summer internship through a faculty recommendation, which later turned into a full-time job offer.
Placements and Opportunities
SRM has a fairly strong placement cell, especially for Computer Science and related fields. However, getting placed at a high-paying company like Google, Amazon, or Microsoft (often referred to as FAANG companies) isn’t a walk in the park. The university does attract big names, but it’s up to the student to put in the effort to stand out. Skills like problem-solving, competitive programming, and a robust portfolio are key.
The placement scenario at SRM is diverse. The top 15% of the class might get placed in leading tech companies with lucrative packages, while others may find it challenging. Hence, if you’re targeting these companies, start preparing from day one—participate in coding competitions, hackathons, and network as much as possible.
For those who aren’t inclined toward corporate roles, SRM also encourages entrepreneurship. There are incubation centers and mentorship programs to support startup ideas. The alumni network includes founders and entrepreneurs who’ve made it big, and they often return to campus to share their journeys.
Final Verdict
So, is SRM a good university? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you need an environment that gives you a structured path and rigorous academic mentorship, SRM might not be the ideal choice. However, if you’re someone who thrives on freedom and can take the initiative to carve your own path, SRM offers a fertile ground to grow.
The university is what you make of it. It can be an ordinary four-year experience where you just scrape by, or it can be a transformative period where you learn, grow, and build lifelong connections. The hefty fees can be justified if you leverage every opportunity the university offers—be it international conferences, internships, or personal projects.
In the end, your success at SRM, or any university for that matter, is determined by your own efforts, your ability to network, and your drive to make the most out of every resource available. M