My Experience of the Foundation Level in IIT Madras BS Degree

personal experience of foundation level.

Wed Jan 22, 2025

Introduction

Embarking on the journey of the IIT Madras BS degree was both an exciting and challenging phase of my life. Hailing from the serene landscapes of Uttarakhand, I enrolled in this prestigious program in January 2024. As of now, I have successfully completed the foundation level and transitioned to the diploma level. Looking back, my experience has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs, filled with valuable learning and growth.

This blog captures my experience, detailing the courses I chose, how I managed them, and how I secured good grades, particularly an A grade, in this rigorous program.

Term 1: Starting Strong

The foundation level began with subjects that were relatively easy to grasp: Mathematics 1, Statistics 1, and English 1.

Mathematics 1: This subject laid the groundwork for mathematical concepts, and I found it manageable with regular practice.

Statistics 1: Though slightly complex, the structured course material and clear explanations made it manageable with consistent effort.

English 1: As the name suggests, this was one of the easiest subjects for me, focusing on basic communication and comprehension skills.

Management Tip: Starting with relatively simpler subjects allowed me to get into the rhythm of online learning and set a steady pace. Consistent efforts and regular revision were key to maintaining good grades in this term.

Term 2: The Challenge Intensifies

In the second term, I opted for Mathematics 2, Computational Thinking (CT), and English 2. This term was a mix of moderate and challenging subjects

Mathematics 2: This was a tough subject with advanced concepts like calculus. It required more effort and regular problem-solving to understand the nuances.

Computational Thinking (CT): This subject introduced logical problem-solving and algorithms, which I found engaging and relatively easy.

English 2: Like English 1, this course was straightforward and served as a breather amidst the challenging subjects.

Management Tip: For challenging subjects like Mathematics 2, I focused on practicing daily and revisiting lecture recordings to clarify doubts. CT and English 2 were easier to manage, providing a balance.

Term 3: The Toughest Combo

The final term of the foundation level was the most demanding. I chose Python Programming and Statistics 2, both of which required significant time and effort.

Python Programming: The theoretical aspects and quizzes in Python were relatively easy, but the hands-on programming exam (OPPE) posed a significant challenge. I struggled initially, even failing my first OPPE, but with persistence, I made a strong comeback in the second attempt.

Statistics 2: This was the hardest subject in the foundation level after Mathematics 2. It covered an extensive range of concepts, making it challenging to master.

Management Tip: For Python, consistent practice and focusing on weak areas helped me improve. For Statistics 2, I broke down the vast syllabus into smaller chunks and revised regularly to stay on top of the content.

Ranking the Foundation Level Subjects

Based on my experience, here’s my ranking of the foundation level subjects from most to least difficult:

1. Mathematics 2

2. Statistics 2

3. Python Programming

4. Statistics 1

5. Mathematics 1

6. Computational Thinking (CT)

7. English 2

8. English 1

This ranking is subjective and reflects my personal learning curve during the program. Your experience might differ depending on your strengths and interests.

Key Takeaways from the Foundation Level

1. Consistent Effort: Regular practice and revision were crucial for managing tough subjects.

2. Balancing Workload: Choosing a mix of challenging and easier subjects each term helped me maintain a balance.

3. Learning from Failures: My initial failure in Python OPPE was a turning point, teaching me resilience and the importance of focused effort.

4. Seeking Help: Utilizing available resources like lecture recordings, discussion forums, and peer support made a significant difference.

The foundation level not only tested my academic abilities but also strengthened my time management, problem-solving, and perseverance skills

Looking Ahead

As I step into the diploma level of the IIT Madras BS degree, I carry forward the lessons and experiences from the foundation level. This program has been a transformative journey, pushing me beyond my limits and preparing me for the challenges ahead in the world of data science.

To anyone considering this program, I’d say: be prepared to work hard, embrace the challenges, and most importantly, enjoy the process of learning. The journey might be tough, but it is incredibly rewarding.