Are you ready to start at IISER or confident about getting in next year? Whether you’re anticipating your first year or preparing for it, we can help you navigate the exciting and challenging time ahead. Let’s discuss key things to avoid and explore practical tips to have a smooth and productive first year. Whether you’re feeling confident or a bit overwhelmed, this guide is here to support you every step of the way. Let’s get started and make your first year at IISER a fantastic one!
1. Don’t Neglect Your Academics:
Remember not to ignore your studies. Avoid waiting until the last minute to study. Procrastination might be tempting, but studying at the last minute usually doesn’t work well. The classes at IISER are challenging, so it’s important to consistently put in effort.
Tip: Create a regular study schedule and stick to it. Review your notes every day and make use of the campus libraries and other resources.
2. Don’t Ignore Your Health:
With all the excitement, it’s easy to develop unhealthy habits like skipping meals or staying up all night. Poor nutrition and lack of sleep can harm your academic performance and overall well-being. Your health is as important as your studies, and a balanced lifestyle will help you do better in your academics.
Tip: Eat a balanced diet and get enough sleep. Use campus health services if needed.
3. Don’t Overcommit to Extracurricular Activities:
Extracurricular activities are great, but overcommitting can lead to burnout. Balancing academics and other interests is crucial to excelling in both areas without compromising your well-being.
Tip: Pick a few activities that truly interest you and make sure you have enough time for your studies.
4. Don’t Isolate Yourself:
College can be a lot, and students might feel overwhelmed. But it’s important to make friends and connect with classmates for support and teamwork. Join group activities and study sessions, and don’t be afraid to talk to your classmates and professors.
Tip: Join group activities and study sessions. Don’t hesitate to reach out to classmates and professors.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Seek Help:
You might find some subjects challenging. Struggling alone can lead to frustration. Recognising when you need help and seeking it out is a crucial skill that will benefit you throughout your academic journey.
Tip: Use tutoring centres, attend office hours, and join study groups. Remember, asking for help shows strength, not weakness.
6. Don’t Miss Out on Opportunities:
IISER offers many opportunities for research and internships, which are crucial for your academic and professional growth. Missing out on these can limit your learning experience and career prospects. Being proactive and taking advantage of these opportunities will enhance your time at IISER.
Tip: Stay informed about opportunities and apply for internships and research projects early. Attend workshops and seminars to expand your knowledge and network.
Extra Tip: How can you be updated on different opportunities? SciAstra can help. We regularly post blogs and videos about research opportunities, internships, exams etc. To make sure that you stay updated and not miss any of the important news, follow the following steps:
- Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: Vivek NISER
- Follow us on Instagram.
- Download our app: Android | IOS
- Visit our website: sciastra.com
7. Don’t Underestimate the Importance of Soft Skills:
Focusing only on academics can be harmful. Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and time management are equally important for your professional future. Engaging in activities that develop these skills will make you a well-rounded individual.
Tip: Participate in activities that develop these skills, such as debates, group projects, and time management workshops.
8. Don’t Ignore Campus Resources:
From counselling services to academic advisors, IISER offers various resources designed to support students. Ignoring these can make your college experience more challenging than it needs to be. Using these resources can provide invaluable support throughout your studies.
Tip: Familiarize yourself with the available resources, and don’t hesitate to use them when needed.
9. Don’t Forget to Plan Your Career Path:
It’s never too early to start thinking about your career. Lack of planning can lead to missed opportunities and a lack of direction. Being proactive about your career planning will help you make the most of your time at IISER and set you up for success after graduation.
Tip: Attend career counselling sessions, seek mentorship from faculty, and participate in career-oriented events.
10. Don’t Get Distracted by Social Media:
While social media can be a great way to stay connected, it can also be a major distraction. Spending too much time online can detract from your studies and real-life interactions. Setting boundaries for your social media use will help you stay focused on your academic and personal goals.
Tip: Set specific times for social media use and prioritise face-to-face interactions and academic responsibilities.
How Can I Get Into IISER?
Securing admission to the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) involves a strategic and focused preparation plan for the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT). SciAstra has crafted the best courses to help one crack IAT and get a seat in IISER. We already have hundreds of selections of IISERs, NISERs and IISc. For IAT Preparation, consider these two courses: Vikaram 1.0 Batch 2025 and Homu Batch 2026. Details of these courses are given below
Vikram 1.0 Batch 2025
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biology with all SciAstra books in PDF.
- Personalised Mentorship: One-on-one sessions, continuous guidance, and special doubt-clearing groups.
- Resource Accessibility: Access to research study materials, IAT Preparation Book, question papers from previous years, and the SciAstra app for additional resources.
- Focused Preparation: Special strategies for non-maths and non-biology students.
HOMI 2026 Batch
- Complete 11th and 12th Syllabus: Ideal for IISER, IISc, and NISER aspirants, with special guidance for non-biology and non-mathematics students.
- High-Quality Study Materials: Includes all 8 SciAstra books in PDF with the best theory and question banks.
- Interactive Learning: Weekly interaction sessions, private Telegram groups, and seminars with top researchers.
- Holistic Development: Meditation and stress-buster sessions.
To learn more about our courses and enrol in them, click here.
Conclusion:
It’s important to find a balance between your studies and your well-being during your first year at IISER. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Take advantage of the opportunities available to you. Avoiding these common mistakes will lead to a more fulfilling experience at IISER.
For academic support and guidance, check out the courses and resources offered by SciAstra. Our experienced mentors and structured programs can help give you the edge you need to succeed.
FAQs:
What is the Indian Aptitude Test (IAT)?
The Indian Aptitude Test (IAT) is an entrance exam for admission to IISERs. It assesses a student’s knowledge in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology.
How should I start preparing for the IAT?
Begin by understanding the exam pattern and syllabus. Use high-quality study materials like SciAstra’s preparation books, follow a consistent study schedule, and focus on understanding concepts.
How important is 11th-grade preparation for the IAT?
11th-grade preparation is crucial as it forms the foundation for the 12th-grade syllabus and entrance exams. Concepts learned in 11th grade are often directly applied in the IAT.
For more information and support, join SciAstra’s Vikram 1.0 Batch 2025 or Homi 2026 Batch. We provide comprehensive preparation strategies, study materials, and personalised guidance to help you excel in your academic journey.
About us:
SciAstra is a team of scientists and research scholars from the top research institutes around the world, like Oxford, Harvard, Cambridge, and so on. Our vision is to promote critical thinking and scientific temperament by helping students pursue careers in science.
We offer many free and paid courses where our mentors from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, etc., teach students in live classes, with study materials, mock tests, books, and everything needed. We have taught more than 10,000 students already since 2021 and achieved over 1000 selections with AIR 1, 7,10, 12, and 13 in IISc Bengaluru, IISERs, NISER, IACS, and so on. If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2025, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more!
To know more about us, click here OR download the SciAstra App from the Play Store and App Store!
