Apost by a Reddit user who claimed to be an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) graduate sparked the age-old debate among engineering aspirants: Should one prioritise the prestige of an older IIT over securing a coveted branch like Computer Science (CS) at a newer IIT?
The user shared their experience, explaining that they opted for a less popular branch of study at IIT Madras over a CS seat at IIT Bhilai. The decision, they claimed, paid off handsomely, landing them a Rs 55 lakh per annum salary.
Highlighting the power of the IIT brand, the user said, "A degree from an old IIT isn't just a degree; it's a signal. Recruiters see 'Old IIT' on a CV and skip half the filters."
The post argued that technical skills like coding and system design can be self-taught, but opportunities and networks offered by an older IIT are unparalleled.
"You don't need a CS degree to be a great developer. What you do need is access to the right ecosystem, and old IITs provide exactly that," the user said.
The post also detailed how the competitive environment at older IITs and their robust alumni networks prepare students for access. The user said, "Nobody cares that my degree says 'Metallurgy.' I'm earning Rs 55 lakh and growing both my net worth and network."
Take a look at the viral post here:
The post sparked debate amongst Reddit users. "My friend got a Rs 1 crore package with CS from a 'not old' IIT. There's no fixed rule there," a user said, while another added, "Sounds like OP would hate it if a Tier-3 college graduate got the same salary as them."
This debate isn't new among IIT aspirants. For many, the choice boils down to weighing the long-term advantages of an older IIT's prestige against the immediate appeal of studying a popular branch like CS.
While opinions online remain divided, the discussion shows a broader reality: success in competitive fields often hinges on a mix of hard work, skill development, and the right opportunities – whether driven by a prestigious institute or personal determination.
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