Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SVNIT), Surat Campus Experience

After a good and hard journey of preparing for the JEE Mains and working hard for my 12th board exams, I secured admission to SVNIT Surat in the Electronics and Communication Engineering program. Although I had a decent rank that could have landed me in a more prestigious institution, various factors, including proximity to my home in Gujarat, led me to choose SVNIT. Later on, the campus experience at SVNIT proved to me that it was one of my best decisions to choose SVNIT.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our induction and initial semesters were conducted online. Despite the unusual circumstances, the induction program was well-organized, providing us with comprehensive insights into campus life, student chapters, and placement scenarios. This helped reshape my perception of SVNIT positively.

To connect with fellow students, we formed a WhatsApp group and scheduled weekly online meetings. This virtual interaction helped alleviate some of the isolation of online learning. The initial online exams were challenging, but as time passed, I adapted to the format and began to feel more confident.

In the middle of our fourth semester, the campus reopened for offline teaching. I was excited to finally experience the campus and hostel life. Moving into the hostel was a significant change, but the welcoming environment and helpful peers made the transition smoother.

Staying in Bhabha Bhavan initially during the second year, and later in Tagore Bhavan in the third year and again moving into Bhabha Bhavan during the final year of my college, I experienced the vibrant hostel life. The double-seated rooms were comfortable, and the hostel mess offered decent food. The campus facilities, including the SAC ground, basketball and badminton courts, games rooms, and the gym, significantly enriched our daily lives. The presence of a health centre and a general store added to the convenience.

The campus itself was beautiful, with greenery, peacocks during the monsoon, and well-maintained lawns. The central library, with its extensive collection of books and quiet reading spaces, was a great resource for academic and non-academic pursuits.

SVNIT Surat has a large and beautiful campus. When you enter, you see a big lawn that gives a calm and welcoming feeling. The campus is well-planned, with all facilities easy to reach. Opposite the main lawn, there’s an SBI bank and a post office for students’ financial and postal needs. The Mother Teresa Bhavan, the girls’ hostel, has a gym and yoga sessions.

The main canteen is a popular spot for students to gather and enjoy meals. The academic departments are centrally located, making classrooms and labs easy to access. The central library has three floors for reading and book collections, making it a key academic resource.

For recreation, the SAC ground has basketball and badminton courts. Each hostel has a games room, and the gym is available to all students until 8 PM. The health centre ensures medical help is readily available, with doctors on call and first aid kits in all hostels.

The boys’ hostels include Gajjar Bhavan, Bhabha Bhavan, Tagore Bhavan, Swami Bhavan, and Nehru Bhavan. These hostels provide comfortable living spaces

As we progressed through the years, we were introduced to various student chapters and technical clubs that provided opportunities for personal and professional growth. The transition to offline exams brought a new dynamic to our studies, fostering group study sessions and peer learning. We had quite a supportive and friendly faculty member who helped and guided us throughout the college.

Our third year marked the beginning of the internship season. Despite the recession, I secured an internship with a prominent fintech company, which was a valuable learning experience. The placement season in our final year was challenging due to the economic downturn, but SVNIT’s placement cell ensured that many students, including myself, secured positions in reputable organizations.

SVNIT’s cultural fest, SPARSH, and the techno-managerial fest, MINDBEND, were highlights of our college life. These events, featuring participants from various institutions and culminating in a grand celebration, fostered a sense of community and provided platforms for showcasing talents.

Conclusion:

Graduating in 2024, I reflect on my time at SVNIT Surat with immense gratitude. The journey from online classes to bustling campus life, from initial doubts to a fulfilling college experience, was transformative. The friendships forged, the knowledge gained, and the experiences lived will always be cherished. SVNIT not only provided a solid academic foundation but also facilitated personal growth and lifelong memories.

I am thankful for the supportive environment, excellent infrastructure, and vibrant campus life that made these years the best of my life.