“From Dreams to Reality: My First Year at IIT Bombay”
An Inspirational Conversation with Anshul Nautiyal
With the Special Correspondent, The Bharat Pulse
Family Roots and Early Journey
The Bharat Pulse: First of all, Anshul, heartiest congratulations on not only cracking one of the toughest exams in the country but also making it to one of its most prestigious institutions—IIT Bombay. Let’s start from the beginning—tell us about your childhood and family background.
Anshul Nautiyal: Thank you! I was born and raised in Dehradun, but my roots lie in a small village named Jalwal in Tehri district, Uttarakhand. My father served in the Indian Army and is now retired. Discipline and hard work have always been highly valued in my home. Growing up in a military environment taught me that if your dreams are big, your efforts have to match. For me, IIT was more than an institution—it was a dream. And that dream started taking shape in a small study room in Dehradun.
IIT: A Distant Dream Turned Into a Goal
The Bharat Pulse: Just the name ‘IIT’ carries a sense of prestige. When did you first realize you wanted to aim for it?
Anshul: Honestly, in the beginning, IIT felt like a distant and almost impossible goal—something reserved for geniuses. But the shift happened when I started asking myself, “Why not me?” That spark turned into a flame in Class 11 when I began preparing for JEE. I was scared, of course, but my determination was stronger than my fear. With each passing day, I started trusting myself more, and I truly believe that when your effort is honest, the path finds you.
Stepping into IIT Bombay – A New Chapter
The Bharat Pulse: How did it feel when you first stepped into the IIT Bombay campus?
Anshul (laughs): It was like the climax of a movie—and you’re the lead character. The campus is incredibly beautiful and full of energy. Yes, I was nervous at first. You look around and think, “Everyone’s smarter than me.” But slowly, as you become a part of the ecosystem, you start believing—“I belong here too.”
First Semester: Friends, Hostel, and Countless New Stories
The Bharat Pulse: What was your experience like in the first semester? Did hostel life teach you something new?
Anshul: Oh, absolutely! The first semester was all about meeting new people, attending orientations, and trying to settle into a completely new world. Hostel life is an experience in itself. Every room has its own story, and every friend brings a new universe with them. I’m lucky to have found friends who stood by me during the tough times too—they’re my chosen family now.
IIT Bombay: More Than Just Academics
The Bharat Pulse: IIT is known for its academics, but did you get a chance to explore beyond the classroom?
Anshul: That’s the beauty of IIT Bombay—it shapes you holistically. I got involved in sports, cultural clubs, art workshops, and even a few research-related projects. Yes, initially it was overwhelming, but when you start trying different things, you begin to understand yourself better. We even went on a few off-campus trips—and those were some of the best memories of my life.
Second Semester: Focus, Responsibility, and the Real IIT Life
The Bharat Pulse: Once the initial excitement fades, the real grind begins. How did you handle that transition?
Anshul: You’re spot on. By the second semester, most students find their direction—some dive deep into academics, others in technical projects or club activities. For me, it was a transformational phase. I learned time management, teamwork, and, most importantly, self-trust. Fun didn’t stop, but responsibilities surely increased.
Was the JEE Journey Really Worth It?
The Bharat Pulse: Looking back now, with all the sleepless nights, stress, and hard work—do you think the JEE journey was worth it?
Anshul (reflecting): 100% worth it. That journey didn’t just make me a better student—it made me a stronger person. JEE taught me how to push limits, and IIT Bombay is helping me explore who I am. To any kid sitting in a small village today dreaming of IIT—I just want to say, “Don’t be afraid. You can do it too. Just believe in yourself and keep working hard.”
The Bharat Pulse: Anshul, your story is sure to inspire thousands of students and parents. We wish you a bright and impactful future ahead!
Anshul: Thank you so much! I’m grateful to share my journey through The Bharat Pulse. I hope it helps someone out there chase their dreams a little harder.
Written by: Special Correspondent, The Bharat Pulse
Photo Courtesy: IIT Bombay Campus & Anshul Nautiyal’s Personal Collection
