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) 2023. Talking about JNU placements, the median package offered during JNU PG 2-year placements in 2022 stood at INR 7.95 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:   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 MA available in JNU?

A:

Yes, the university offer two-year MA programme in multiple specialisations. Some of the specialisations in which the course is available are Sociology, Political Science, Economics, etc. The course carries a total of 64 credits. In addition, the course is divided into four semester and there are 16 credits each semester. Admission to this PG-level course is entrance-based. To apply for the course, it is also necessary that the aspirants meet the eligibility requirements.

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.

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 2 weeks ago

Both, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and Delhi University (DU) offer Master of Computer Application (MCA) programme at postgradute laevel. The duration of MCA is two years for a full time programme. 

Delhi University is more famous for its undergraduate programmes, while JNU is better known for it

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Jiya Tyagi

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SUJITH S

Contributor-Level 8

Answered 2 weeks ago

To identify which university is best for MCA courses among JNU or BHU candidates can compare both of the universities based on eligibility criteria, fee structure, seats and average package offered to MCA students. Check out the table beloSew based on above mentioned parameter: 

University Name Eligibility Criteria Fee Structure Average Package Seats 
MCA at JNU Bachelor Degree in Computer Science Engineering or equivalent degree + CUET PG Scores INR 432INR 9.5 lakh 58 
MCA at BHU Candidates who have passed a BCA, BIT, or BTech with Computer Science + CUET PG ScoresINR 15,70057 

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Vishakha

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Suraj Kumar karn

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 4 weeks ago

For admission to MA courses at JNU, the university accepts CUET PG scores, and for appearing in the CUET PG course there is no age limit. Hence, there is no max. Age limit for admission to the Master of Arts (MA) programme at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). However, the minimum age limit is 17 ye

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Vishakha

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No, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) does not offers M.Sc datascience course, but it does offer a Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in Data Science. JNU also offers a Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computational and Integrative Sciences, which includes specializations in Computational Biology and Comple

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Surbhi Sahu

Guide-Level 13

Answered a month ago

Candidates must fulfil a number of important requirements in order to be admitted to Jawaharlal Nehru University's (JNU) B.A. programme via the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). Candidates must have earned a minimum qualifying percentage, usually between 45% and 50%, depending on the programme

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Mallika Ahuja

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 3 weeks ago

JNU is ranked 10th under the Overall category and 2nd under the University category by NIRF 2024. The university is also ranked 580 by the QS World University Rankings 2025, 14 by the Asian University Rankings - Southern Asia category 2025,  and 110 under the Asian University Rankings category 2025

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Liyansha Jain

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