How To Pick A University Wisely

First, A Word To Parents. Take A Chill Pill. Stay Out Of The Process. Let the student take the lead. You have led the charge so far, through 15 years of pre-school and school.

- MOHAN KRISHNAN

You've given them roots; that will be their foundation for their whole lives. Now, give them wings. It's their time to fly. Going to college is an important rite of passage, and allow them the autonomy to do it on their own. You are the safety net, the sounding board, but no longer the decision maker. They need to be independent, but never alone. So young folks, here are some home truths. You have already chosen the colleges available to you, by the marks you have scored in board exams. Don't be under any illusions that you will get into an IIT, if your marks are ITI level.

Yes, some private, deemed universities are less rigid about marks because they give weightage to extracurricular activities, and the way you perform in the entrance tests, group discussions and interviews. If you believe that your marks don’t tell your whole story, then look for institutions that are willing to take a wider, more liberal view.

Please, please, don’t buy your way into a prestigious, brand name college by paying ridiculous capitation fees. Their course will be rigorous, your co-students will be way ahead of you, and your years in college will be full of struggle and with a sense that you are not good enough. This can lead to burnout and drop out. Invest the money in a good mutual fund, and let it grow for 15 years. Find a college that is a good match for your abilities, and that will encourage and challenge you to stretch.