VIT Counselling Experience: Online and Off

The New Normal: Online VITEEE 2023 Counselling

Due to the ongoing pandemic, VIT (Vellore Institute of Technology) has shifted to an online counselling model for VITEEE 2023. Students are no longer required to visit any campus for the counselling process. This change comes as a relief to many students who might find it difficult to commute, especially given the current travel restrictions and safety concerns. The process has been structured into four phases, with students with ranks below 20,000 participating in Phase 1, which has already concluded. Phase 2 starts on June 30th, where students can apply for up to 25 choices of branches, campuses, and categories. Payment of fees is necessary to secure a seat, and failure to do so within the designated time frame results in the cancellation of the allotment.

The online format is streamlined, with students filling out their preferences and the final selections being published based on seat availability. However, the fees for this process are substantial, with cancellation fees of Rs. 12,000, which can be burdensome for many students and their families.

VIT's Traditional Counselling Experience: A Far Cry from Modernity

My experience and that of countless parents who visited the VIT Bhopal campus on May 9 and 10 paint a different picture. Despite being touted as a technologically advanced institution, the previous year's counselling process was a disheartening experience. In a world where online platforms are the norm, VIT's lack of preparation and poor execution only highlighted its shortcomings.

The counselling was not just manual and inefficient; it was chaotic and disorganized. Although detailed information was provided in advance, the ground realities were far from ideal. There was inadequate preparation for the number of participants, leading to long lines and waiting periods. The lack of proper seating arrangements and essential amenities such as water, cold drinks, and snacks further exacerbated the situation. The environment was visibly uncomfortable, with people standing in the scorching sun and only a single auditorium with a limited capacity of about 1,000 people accommodating 3,000 applicants and their guardians.

Worse still, the authorities insisted on demand drafts (DDs), which proved inconvenient for many students and their families. One incident involving a DD with a spelling mistake resulted in a bank refusing to honor it, leading to a delay in the process. While other institutions have started accepting online payments, VIT's insistence on DDs seems outdated.

The lack of clear information and the absence of any seats or category details in the waiting area severely impacted the counselling experience. Photography in the waiting area was restricted, and candidates were often unable to share crucial information with their parents. Moreover, the authorities’ unyielding stance on their infrastructure and connectivity problems did little to muster public faith in their claim of a world-class technological infrastructure.

The overall experience was fraught with disappointment and frustration. Even a minor inconvenience, like cancelling a flight or extending hotel stays, added to the emotional and financial burden. The lack of transparency and preparation has led many to question the value and reliability of VIT's admission process.

Conclusion: The Need for Change

As we move forward, it is imperative that VIT and other institutions learn from these experiences. The current model, while a step in the right direction with the online platform, still falls short of the expectations set by modern technology. Institutions must prioritize the welfare of applicants and ensure a seamless and efficient process. This includes eliminating unnecessary hurdles, providing clear and accessible information, and ensuring a hygienic and comfortable environment.

The acceptance of online payments and the adoption of a more flexible and user-friendly approach can go a long way in building trust and ensuring a positive counseling experience. Only then can institutions like VIT truly claim to be at the forefront of technological innovation and excellence.

Key_takeaways:

Online VITEEE 2023 counselling process is more convenient and accessible. VIT Bhopal's traditional counselling experience reflects poor preparation and organization. There is a need for transparency, clear information, and better infrastructure in counselling processes.