IIT alum recalls struggle with pressure and failure after GPA fell from 8.4 to 5.5: ‘I was almost expelled’

IIT Alum Recalls Struggle with Pressure and Failure: ‘I Was Almost Expelled’

IIT alum recalls struggle with pressure – An IIT alum recounts the emotional challenges of maintaining academic excellence, sharing how a drastic decline in his GPA nearly led to expulsion. The story, shared on LinkedIn, sheds light on the intense pressure faced by top-tier students and the psychological toll of sudden academic setbacks. Vallath’s experience highlights the often-overlooked struggles behind the光环 of an IIT degree.

From Academic Triumph to Crisis

RamG Vallath, an IIT Madras graduate and editor-in-chief of an online magazine, detailed his journey of falling from academic prominence. After securing an All India Rank of 129 in the IIT-JEE, he thrived in his first year, achieving an 8.4 GPA. However, the pressure to sustain perfection began to weigh heavily on him, creating a chasm between his aspirations and reality.

“In his first year, Vallath achieved an 8.4 GPA, but by his third year, he found himself on the brink of despair,” he stated in the post.

The Weight of Expectations

Vallath’s GPA dropped from 8.4 to 5.5, a fall that nearly resulted in his expulsion. He described the transition from being the ‘boy who came first’ to a student struggling with self-doubt. This shift was exacerbated by the rigorous expectations set by his parents and peers, who had idealized him as the ‘IIT boy’ and ‘brilliant son.’

“His GPA eventually plummeted from 8.4 to 5.5, bringing him close to expulsion,” he wrote.

Struggles Beyond the Classroom

The academic pressure extended beyond textbooks, affecting Vallath’s personal life and mental well-being. He admitted to skipping classes, staying up until 5 a.m. to play cards before exams, and even consuming alcohol to cope. These actions were not signs of weakness but attempts to redefine himself in the face of relentless expectations.

“The pressure wasn’t just academic; it was existential. Vallath confessed to fearing the backlash from his parents, who had idealized him as the ‘brilliant son’ and ‘IIT boy,’ making the reality of his struggles feel more daunting than the challenges themselves.”

Support and Resilience

Vallath credited his parents for their pivotal role in his recovery. They accompanied him during a three-week stay in the IIT guest house, engaging with professors who had initially written him off and helping him rebuild his confidence. Despite the setback, he managed to graduate with a final semester GPA of 9, though it took an extra year to complete his studies.

“It took five years instead of four, but I graduated. My last semester GPA was 9,” he wrote.

Systemic Challenges in IIT Culture

Vallath emphasized that society often views IIT as the pinnacle of academic achievement, overlooking the struggles that follow. He argued that the institution’s culture glorifies success so intensely that students are left to navigate failure in isolation. This mindset, he said, makes it difficult for students to seek support without feeling ashamed of their inability to maintain the perfect image.

“Students are not weak but ‘brilliant young individuals who were given a trophy without learning how to fall, how to fail, or how to seek help without feeling like a failure,'” he concluded.

Reflections and Lessons Learned

The post sparked discussions about the need for a more balanced approach to education and mental health. Vallath’s story resonated with many, as it illustrated the silent battles behind the academic accolades. He now advocates for systemic changes that recognize the importance of resilience and emotional well-being in the journey of an IIT student.