Archive · 21 Jul 2026
IIT Graduate Calls Degree 'Prison Time'
Akash Sampurnanand Pandey, an IIT-BHU graduate, recently went viral for describing his four years at the institute as 'prison time' for his brain.
He spent most of his time reading history, economics, and political science books instead of focusing on his engineering coursework.
Despite maintaining a decent GPA, he felt that his degree did not align with his interests.
After graduation, he took a consulting job and left engineering behind entirely.
His post sparked a debate, with many praising his candor and others criticizing his approach to his education.
The discussion highlights the broader shift among IIT graduates pursuing diverse career paths beyond their academic specializations.
Akash Sampurnanand Pandey, an IIT-BHU graduate, described his four years at the institute as 'prison time' for his brain.
He spent his time reading history, economics, and political science books instead of focusing on his engineering coursework.
Despite maintaining a GPA of around 7.5, he felt his degree did not align with his interests.
After graduation, he took a consulting job and left engineering behind entirely.
His post sparked a debate, with supporters appreciating his candor and critics emphasizing the responsibility of utilizing a heavily subsidized education.
- Who
- Akash Sampurnanand Pandey, an IIT-BHU graduate
- What
- Described his four years at IIT as 'prison time' for his brain, focusing on history and political science instead of his engineering coursework
- When
- Post went viral on July 17, 2026
- Where
- IIT-BHU Varanasi, now based in New York
- Why
- To share his experience and resonate with others who felt similarly about their engineering education
Supporters of Pandey's Perspective
Critics of Pandey's Perspective
Personal Freedom vs. Responsibility
Supporters of Pandey's Perspective
Pandey's candor resonated with many who felt compelled to pursue engineering but discovered other interests. His post highlights the importance of personal freedom in career choices.
Critics of Pandey's Perspective
Critics argue that by taking up an IIT seat with little interest in the subject, Pandey may have denied a more motivated candidate the same opportunity. They emphasize the responsibility that comes with a heavily subsidized education.
Career Flexibility
Supporters of Pandey's Perspective
Supporters appreciate Pandey's decision to pursue his true interests after graduation, emphasizing that a degree should not dictate a lifelong career.
Critics of Pandey's Perspective
Critics believe that students who clear one of the world's most competitive entrance exams should engage seriously with their chosen field, as the education is heavily subsidized by the government.
- Name
- Akash Sampurnanand Pandey
- Institution
- IIT-BHU Varanasi
- Degree
- Engineering
- Current Location
- New York
- Books Read per Semester
- 7-10
- GPA
- 7.5
- Post Viral Date
- July 17, 2026