Starting college is a milestone—exciting, unpredictable, and sometimes a little scary. At IIT Madras, the transition into your first year is made smoother through a carefully designed support system that helps you settle in both academically and emotionally. From day one, you’re not navigating it alone. The institute has your back—with mentors, events, and a vibrant campus community that becomes your second home.
Orientation: Your Gateway to Insti Life
The journey begins with the Orientation Program, a week filled with introductions—not just to your courses, but to the culture of the campus itself. Every major student sphere—Academic, Cultural, Technical, and more—organises fundae sessions, which are informal yet informative talks that answer your most pressing questions: How do I pick electives? What are clubs like? Where’s the best place to get chai?
These sessions are accompanied by some wonderful bonding events like Freshers’ Day, a celebration where you are the star, and department-specific Freshie Nights, where you connect more personally with your classmates and seniors. These early experiences lay the foundation for friendships and help ease any jitters about the new environment.
Mentors Who Walk With You
As you settle in, you’ll find that IIT Madras has assigned you not just one, but multiple layers of mentorship. A Saathi mentor from your department is your first friend and guide, someone who was in your shoes not long ago and knows exactly what kind of support you’ll need—whether it’s academic or emotional.
Alongside them, you can get an Acad Buddy who will help you with courses and assignments, so you don’t have to worry about struggling with academics. Then there’s your Faculty Advisor (FacAd), a professor who offers long-term academic guidance. You’ll also attend Kushal meetings—confidential and student-friendly wellness meetings with your faculty advisor to focus on mental health and stress management, creating a judgment-free space to talk and reflect.
These mentors form your circle of trust, making sure that if you’re ever unsure, overwhelmed, or just need to talk, someone is always around to help.
A Campus That Speaks Your Language
One common concern among newcomers, especially from outside Tamil Nadu, is the language barrier. But rest assured—English is the primary language of communication on campus, in classrooms, hostels, and clubs alike. You’ll find yourself surrounded by students from across the country, and it’s common to hear a mix of Hindi, Telugu, Bengali, and more during casual conversations.
To support linguistic and cultural diversity, IITM has Samitis—independent cultural bodies that offer a “home away from home.” Whether you want to celebrate Onam or Lohri, speak in your mother tongue, or enjoy regional music nights, these groups help you stay connected to your roots while discovering new cultures.
Hostel Life: Shared Rooms, Shared Stories
Every first-year student is allotted a room in a freshie hostel, usually shared with another student. These shared rooms often become the setting for lifelong friendships. Late-night maggi, music from the next room, and group study marathons before exams all add to the charm.
What makes this experience even more reassuring is the campus’s strict anti-ragging policy. Seniors here are known for being warm and helpful, offering everything from textbooks to advice on electives. It’s a safe and welcoming space, designed to let you focus on what truly matters—growing as a student and person.
Food: Beyond Sambar
Another big adjustment is food, but IIT Madras has something for everyone. The mess system includes both North and South Indian options, and you can change your preference every month. Whether you’re a fan of paneer butter masala or rasam rice, you’ll find comforting staples. And when you need a change, canteens, food trucks and cafes around campus are always buzzing.
This diversity in cuisine ensures that food isn’t a source of stress but a way to unwind and explore.
Finding Yourself Beyond Academics
Your first year also includes co-curricular classes that are anything but boring. You’ll be assigned to Life Skills, which helps you build your soft skills. You will also have to choose from NSO (sports), NCA (arts), NCC, or NSS (social service). These programs help you meet students from other departments and develop skills beyond the classroom. Whether you’re painting a mural, playing football, or volunteering for social causes, these activities bring balance to your life.
Looking to build a new hobby or try something entrepreneurial? The L-TAP (Leisure Time Activity Program) courses and the entrepreneurship courses are great starting points. Freshers often find these courses a safe space to explore interests like photography, coding, dance, or business building.
Fret not, for You Belong Here
The first year at IIT Madras is not just about lectures and labs—it’s about finding where you belong. With a network of mentors, inclusive communities, exciting opportunities, and a campus that truly welcomes you, every step is designed to help you thrive.
So, whether you’re worried about adjusting, making friends, or finding your passion, take a deep breath. You’re in the right place. And your journey is just beginning.