This IIT graduate chose 'non-cool' engineering branch, still secured Rs 55 lakh package, here's how

A decision by an IIT graduate has led to a debate whether to choose IITs with old prestige or a reputed branch like Computer Science (CS) at a newer IIT.  

The IIT graduate shared on social networking site Reddit that why he did not opt for a CS seat at IIT Bhilai but a lower branch at IIT Madras. In a long post on the social media site he explained that the way to his success was not through choosing a popular engineering stream at a new IIT but choosing an old brand with years of reputation.  

Advising against giving priority to the branch of the college than its brand, he revealed he chose IIT Madras because of a better name and brand. “If you still think stream matters more than the institute In a place like India, good luck convincing yourself of that,” he said. Supporting studying in a prestigious college than a popular branch, he said, “I'm making 55 LPA today, not because I followed that tired advice, but because I chose a low branch in an Old IIT over CS in a shiny new one.” 

He went on to explain that the importance of old IIT is in their brand name. “I rejected CS at a new IIT for a "non-cool" branch at an Old IIT because I knew the truth: brand trumps branch. A degree from an Old IIT isn't just a degree, it's a signal. Recruiters at top tech firms like Google, Microsoft, and Atlassian don't just look at your branch; they look at your pedigree. And when they see "Old IIT" on a resume, it skips half the filters.” 

He further explained that knowledge can be gained from anywhere but not the networks and a competitive edge that old IITs provide. “A new IIT with CS might give you lectures on operating systems, but Old IITs force you to compete with the best minds in the country. You learn to grind, adapt, and survive. And let's be honest: the placement teams and alumni networks at Old IITs are in a different league altogether.” He concluded by saying that more than degree people care about networth and network which he built even after taking a “Metallurgy”.