In the midst of the recent placement season at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, a BTech student encountered unexpected hurdles in his pursuit of employment. Despite the renowned reputation of the institution, securing a high-paying job proved to be a daunting task for this individual.?
Resorting to unconventional methods, such as reaching out to recruiters on LinkedIn, yielded little success, leaving the student disheartened.
Speaking to TOI regarding the 2024 placement season, the student described it as lacklustre, particularly for postgraduate and PhD candidates who faced additional challenges. With the placement process unfolding in three phases, from December to May, many students found themselves exploring alternative avenues after failing to secure positions during the initial rounds.
Dheeraj Singh, an IIT Kanpur alumnus and founder of the Global IIT Alumni Support Group, explained to TOI the the prevalent dissatisfaction among students, both with the on-campus placement opportunities and the offered pay packages. The evolving job market landscape, coupled with the recession, has further compounded the challenges faced by aspiring graduates.
Despite diligent preparation spanning several days, students encountered unexpected demands during interviews, particularly in niche areas like artificial intelligence and machine learning. The disparity between skill sets sought by employers and those possessed by students contributed to feelings of inadequacy and frustration.
In response to TOI's inquiries, IIT-Delhi officials emphasised the institution's commitment to supporting students in their career pursuits through various initiatives, including alumni engagement and networking events.
The outcome of the placement season underscored broader trends in the job market, with students grappling with uncertainty and exploring alternative paths to success. While some found solace in securing placements with startups or smaller firms, others continued to navigate the challenges of an increasingly competitive landscape.
As students reflect on their experiences and chart their paths forward, the broader implications of the evolving job market landscape remain a topic of concern and discussion among stakeholders within the academic community.