From Screens to Celebrations: Embracing Life at JNU

3 mins readUpdated on Oct 16, 2024 14:28 IST

In November 2021, I got the mail for joining the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University for the B.A. Hons. in Russian Language course. We, being a batch affected much by COVID, completed our Class 12 and 1st year of graduation from online mode only. We were given details to provide the digital copy of all our documents and anti-raging affidavit, medical certificate, etc. on mail to be verified by the university for admission, and we were given ample amount of time to submit them. It was notified that a formal offline document verification will be done on campus after the situation of COVID-19 gets normal.

From Virtual to Reality: Discovering College Life at JNU

In the 1st year of graduation, the semesters were shortened due to the lack of time to keep the schedule of the whole college again on track. The teachers laid out special teaching plans, devised new methods, and took long classes and even extra classes to help us cope with the syllabus and the new language. Although a normal semester was supposed to be started in September, our semester started in mid-January, with the cherry on top being it in online mode. But somehow, we completed the 1st year.

We got the opportunity to go to the college very late. The DDMA gave guidelines to open offline colleges in March, but our college was opened in August. The first thing we did there was to get our documents physically verified in the Convention Center of JNU. After that, we were issued our ID cards, health cards, and library cards. A few days later, we were called for offline classes, and in a span of 2–3 months, all were allotted some dorms or hostels in JNU.

Q:   Is JNU MCA entrance tough?

A:

JNU MCA admission is based on a valid Central University Entrance Test (Postgraduate) CUET-PG score. CUET PG is an all-India-level entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). According to test-takers, the General Test was easy and the Domain Knowledge section was moderate to tough. Although the questions were on the expected lines and within the CUET PG syllabus but according to some students, a few questions were out of the syllabus and tricky. So, the JNU MCA entrance is not very tough but can be tricky. 

Q:   What is JNU famous for?

A:

Jawaharlal Nehru University is very widely known for its path-breaking research in the field of Sciences and encourages students towards transformation and innovation in various sectors corresponding to different schools such as the School of Physical Sciences (SPS), the School of Life Sciences (SLS) and the Special Centre for Microbiology among others. JNU is renowned for producing members of various committees of National and International organisations.

Check out the below infographic for verified students' reviews on Shiksha:

Q:   Is MBA from JNU a good option?

A:

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) offers a two-year full-time MBA course at the postgraduate level. It is offered by the university through the Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management & Entrepreneurship. JNU was ranked 2nd position in the University category by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024. Talking about JNU placements, the median package offered during JNU PG 2-year placements in 2023 stood at INR 9.5 LPA. So, yes JNU is a decent option to pursue an MBA degree.

Unity in Diversity: Experiencing JNU's Vibrant Campus Life

We started going to classes regularly and explored the diverse, green, lush campus, flora and fauna, and the immemorial walls and buildings. Then, all with the time passing by, things became normal like pre-covid, and I can surely claim that there is no campus as of JNU in India. JNU doesn't have any centrally organised fest but what makes it different is the celebration of diversity that is all the different festivals, culture, regions and religion. One of them, which is must to attend, is Holi celebration at JNU. Durga puja is also celebrated in a unique way at the campus. It’s a newly added fest to the list of cultural activities, celebrated for 9 days, all managed by the student bodies only.

Matki Fod Competition at Krishna Janmashtami and the pious month of Ramzan and Eid festival are also celebrated at a huge level in all hostels. They also offer ‘Iftaari’ to all students. While the campus holds balance between diversity of traditional Indian festivals, it also celebrates international cultures and festivals like the Hangeul Days festival by Korean language Centre and the Marchen Party week of German language Centre and Maslenitsa celebration of Russian Centre and so on.

Apart from all these cultural, traditional and ethnic fests, there are international level seminars, conferences and talks that are very informative and interesting.We used to participate as a volunteer as junior students of BA or MA. We also participated as a paper presenter or in other more active roles for the PhD students and research scholars. Where these parts represent unique and different ideas, there are DJ night parties in all the schools and centers of JNU where anyone can go and enjoy. More or less, the identity and true spirit of JNU lie in its diversity of students and ideas and the acceptance of them and their representations.

Q:   Is it worth joining JNU for a BSc course?

A:

Jawaharlal Nehru University has been ranked second among the top universities of India in the NIRF ranking 2023. Thus, it is a good university for BSc course aspirants. As per the NIRF report 2023, the median package offered during JNU placements 2022 to UG (3-year) students was INR 6 LPA. Many of the top companies also participate in its placements drive such as Adobe, Amazon, Accenture, TCS, HP, IBM, Google, etc. For the JNU placements update, Click Here.

Q:   Is M.Sc. at JNU a good choice?

A:
{Source: M.Sc. students & alumni}

Here's what current students and alumni have to say:

Pros:

* Excellent Faculty: Teachers are highly qualified, knowledgeable, and supportive. They provide great lessons, and practical classes are helpful.
* Good Infrastructure: The university has a great campus with modern facilities, including a state-of-the-art library, laboratories, and hostel amenities.
* Placements: While the placement rate may vary across departments, some students reported getting internships and even job offers from reputed companies like D.E. Shaw, Deloitte USI, and McKinsey & Company.
* Scholarships: The university offers scholarships to deserving students.
* Campus Life: Students enjoy a lively campus culture with regular events, festivals, and sports competitions.

Cons:

* Limited Placements: Not all students get placed immediately after completing their degree, although some do secure internships.
* Old Curriculum: Some students felt that the course curriculum could be updated to include more industrial exposure.
* Hostel Conditions: Although the hostel facilities are generally good, some students mentioned that they needed improvement.
* Facilities for Research Students: Limited research opportunities and resources might affect students' ability to pursue higher degrees.

Overall Assessment: Based on the feedback from students and alumni, pursuing an M.Sc. at JNU seems like a good choice for those interested in academics, research, and networking. While the placement record may not be stellar, the university's strong reputation, excellent faculty, and vibrant campus atmosphere make it an attractive option. However, potential students should weigh these pros against the cons and consider whether JNU aligns with their individual goals and expectations.

Q:   Is BA from JNU worth it?

A:
{Source: B.A. (Hons) students & alumni}

Is B.A. (Hons.) at JNU Worth the Investment?

Based on the reviews from students and alumni, here's a summary of the key points:

Placement Opportunities
* Around 75% of students got placement through this course
* Average package ranges from INR6 LPA to INR12 LPA
* Top companies like Amazon, Google, and Facebook recruit students
* Internship opportunities available in embassies and government organizations
* Placements are possible in MNCs as interpreters and translators

Course Curriculum
* Course curriculum is relevant and prepares students for industry-ready jobs
* Emphasis on practical skills, such as conversation games, meeting with foreigners, and providing experience for taking jobs in top companies
* Regular assessment and evaluation throughout the semester

Faculty and Teaching Quality
* Faculty members are highly qualified and experienced
* Teaching methods are innovative and interactive
* Feedback from students suggests that teachers are helpful and supportive

Infrastructure and Facilities
* Campus is Wi-Fi enabled
* Libraries, laboratories, and classrooms are well-equipped and maintained
* Accommodation is available in hostels with affordable rates
* Food is available in the mess halls at a reasonable price

Other Aspects
* Extracurricular activities, such as fests and cultural events, are frequent and exciting
* Campus is generally considered safe and secure
* Fees are relatively affordable, ranging from INR2,500 to INR10,000 per month

Overall, B.A. (Hons.) at JNU seems to be a worthwhile investment for students interested in languages, particularly German, Japanese, and Korean. With strong placement opportunities, relevant coursework, and dedicated faculty, JNU appears to provide a holistic educational experience.

Q:   Which all popular spots are there to hangout at JNU?

A:

JNU is home to a diverse student body from all over India and the world. The campus is also a hotbed of multiple political and cultural activities.

  • Canteen: The JNU canteen offers a variety of Indian and international cuisine.
  • Thesis Park: The JNU Thesis Park is located in the middle of the campus and is surrounded by trees and greenery.
  • Central Library: The JNU Central Library is the largest library in JNU. It has over 2 million books, journals and newspapers.
  • Folklore Studies Centre: The JNU Folklore Studies Centre is a popular spot for students to learn about Indian folk culture. It has a collection of over 100,000 folk songs, stories, and artefacts.
  • Botanical Garden: JNU Botanical Garden is a popular spot for students to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It has a collection of over 2,000 plant species.

Q:   Is MBA available at JNU?

A:

Yes, JNU offers a two-year full-time MBA course at the postgraduate level via the Atal Bihari Vajpayee School of Management and Entrepreneurship. JNU MBA admission is completely entrance-based and depends on candidates' performance in the CAT entrance exam, conducted by IIMs. score are eligible to apply for JNU MBA course. 

About the author: 

Sujay is currently purusing BA Hons. in Russian Language at JNU. He completed Class 12 in 2021 during Covid-19 Pandemic.He has participated in many fests at JNU. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Note: The views expressed in this article are solely the author’s own and do not reflect/represent those of Shiksha.

About the Author

MyStory Writer provides you with a platform on which you may share your educational experiences and stories thus far. It allows you to educate other aspirants' paths in order to assist them in making great career ju... Read Full Bio

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Answered 7 months ago

Operating out of JNU, the School of Language, Literature, and Culture Studies provides a three-year full-time BA (Hons) curriculum. Applicants are chosen into JNU BA (Hons) programs according to their performance in the NTA-conducted CUET. In addition, lateral entry admission to the second year of t

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Malavika

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

Both JNU (Jawaharlal Nehru University) and Pune University (Savitribai Phule Pune University) are prestigious institutions offering excellent M.Sc. Biotechnology programs, and each has its own strengths. The choice between the two depends on factors such as academic interests, research opportunities

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Rupesh Katariya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

No, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) does not offer D. Pharma or Diploma in Pharmacy. Known specifically for under graduation, postgraduate research-oriented streams offered with subjects falling under social and human sciences,  natural and biological sciences,  JNU is not offering D Pharma progra

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Pratik Gawade

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 2 weeks ago

You can apply for Master of English Literature Program (MA) at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) through Central University Entrance Test (CUET-PG): 

Eligibility: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and understand the minimum course requirements for the program. 

Instructions: Apply after the

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Jit Dutta

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

Yes, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) offers a combined course in political Science and international relations. the course name is M.A in politics. 

This is a tow year program, it provides core subjects in political Science and international studies.

 You must have 50% in your graduation to eligible

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Sohan Hazra

Beginner-Level 5

Answered 3 weeks ago

B.Sc in Food Science and Technology (Hons.) qualifies you to apply for the M.Sc in Biotechnology offered by Jawaharlal Nehru University. The eligibility criteria for general access to this program is a B.Sc. degree in areas such as Life Sciences, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Genetics,

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Nandini Motwani

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 weeks ago

The probability of getting admission or not, totally depends on the cutoff. As your score is 81, you have a good chance of getting admission. The previous year JNU cutoff for general category was 75 for MCA. So as you have better score than the previous year cutoff, the chances are good. But no accu

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Harsh Vardhan Singh Deora

Contributor-Level 10