What it takes to get into one of the most competitive colleges in the world? (feat. Zeba Karkhanawala)

In this episode, Krish Palaniappan interviews Zeba Karkhanawala, an AI engineer and master’s student at the University of Maryland. Zeba shares her journey from dreading programming in her early days at IIT Jodhpur to thriving in the AI field. The conversation delves into the challenges of preparing for the IIT entrance exams, the unique concept of dummy schools in India, and the importance of self-discipline and independence in academic success. Zeba’s insights provide a comprehensive look at the rigorous journey of aspiring IIT students and the strategies that can lead to success.

Zeba shares her rigorous journey of preparing for the IIT entrance exam, detailing her daily study routine, the importance of self-study, and the balance between academic commitments and personal life. They also touch on parental influence and the mental health aspects of such intense preparation, providing insights into the challenges faced by students aiming for high academic achievements. Zeba and Krish delve into the competitive landscape of education, particularly focusing on the pressures and expectations surrounding entrance exams like IIT.

Zeba and Krish discuss the cultural expectations that influence personal choices, the importance of recognizing one’s limits, and the necessity of listening to one’s instincts. Zeba shares her experiences with the guilt of taking breaks during intense study periods and reflects on her motivations for pursuing IIT. Zeba emphasizes the significance of taking small steps towards goals and the value of self-discovery in the educational journey.

Takeaways

• Zeba discovered her potential for IIT in 9th grade.
• The preparation for IIT is highly competitive and challenging.
• Dummy schools allow students to focus on IIT preparation without regular classes.
• Self-discipline is crucial for success in IIT preparation.
• Zeba’s daily routine included waking up at 5 AM to study.
• The IIT entrance exams require a deep understanding of physics, chemistry, and math.
• Zeba’s journey emphasizes the importance of perseverance and commitment.
• Coaching classes play a significant role in IIT preparation.
• Balancing schoolwork and IIT preparation is essential for success.
• Zeba’s experience highlights the need for independence in academic pursuits.
• The journey to IIT requires immense dedication and effort.
• Self-study is crucial for understanding and retaining concepts.
• Balancing study with personal time is essential for mental health.
• Parental support can influence a student’s academic path.
• The structure of study has evolved, but the challenges remain similar.
• Entertainment and relaxation are important for maintaining focus.
• Students often underestimate the amount of work involved in preparation.
• Peer support can enhance the study experience.
• Preparation for IIT is a common goal among many students.
• The education system is highly competitive, requiring immense dedication.
• Cultural expectations can heavily influence personal choices in education.
• It’s important to recognize personal limits when preparing for competitive exams.
• Listening to your instincts can guide you in making the right choices.
• Taking breaks during intense study is essential for mental health.
• Finding motivation is key to enduring the challenges of competitive exams.
• Small victories should be celebrated to maintain morale during studies.
• The journey of self-discovery is crucial in education and career choices.
• Guilt can manifest when taking breaks, but it’s important to manage it.
• Reflecting on past experiences can provide valuable insights for the future.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Zeba’s Journey
03:09 The IIT Experience: Challenges and Triumphs
06:04 Preparation Strategies for IIT
09:07 A Day in the Life of an IIT Aspirant
11:58 The Role of Dummy Schools in IIT Preparation
15:01 Independence and Self-Discipline in Preparation
18:00 Balancing Academics and IIT Preparation
26:12 The Rigorous Journey to IIT
30:06 Understanding the Study Structure
37:11 The Importance of Self-Study
44:12 Balancing Study and Entertainment
49:06 Parental Influence and Personal Motivation
54:18 The Competitive Landscape of Education
57:09 Cultural Expectations and Personal Choices
01:00:01 Recognizing Personal Limits in Competitive Exams
01:05:59 Listening to Your Instincts
01:12:23 The Guilt of Taking Breaks
01:18:43 Finding Your Motivation and Compromises
01:23:35 Reflecting on the Journey and Future Aspirations

Podcast

Check out the transcript here.

Summary

1. Introduction to IITs and Context

• Discussion of IITs’ prestige, low acceptance rates, and global recognition.
• Personal anecdote about how Indian parents often push their children to aim for IITs.
• Transition to a journey and experience with IIT preparation.

2. Initial Encounter with IIT

• First heard about IIT in 9th grade from a mentor during tuition classes.
• Mentorship and motivation from the teacher to aim for IIT.
• Natural inclination towards mathematics and statistics.
• Decision to give IIT a shot in 11th grade, influenced by the encouragement of the mentor.

3. The Preparation Journey

• Enrolled in coaching classes at Akash Institute in 11th grade.
• Initial struggles with the competitive and challenging curriculum.
• Improved understanding and study methods in 12th grade.
• Qualified for JEE Mains and Advanced through focused effort and resilience.

4. Understanding Dummy Schools

• Explanation of dummy schools, their purpose, and how they cater to students preparing for competitive exams like JEE or NEET.
• Differences between dummy schools and regular schools.
• Reduced academic burden in dummy schools to allow more time for IIT preparation.

5. A Typical Day and Study Routine

• Disciplined routine starting at 5 AM with study sessions.
• Balancing schoolwork with coaching classes and independent preparation.
• Importance of habits, mindset, and discipline in achieving goals.

6. Reflection on Effort and Passion

• Emphasis on the significance of passion and genuine interest in IIT preparation.
• Discussion on balancing academic rigor with personal growth and self-awareness.
• Importance of aligning efforts with individual personality and goals.

Zeba Karkhanawala

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