The CSE obsession: Why JEE aspirants should choose branch wisely

Every year, as JEE results come out, a common trend emerges—an overwhelming rush toward Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) in IITs and NITs. For many aspirants, this choice is not driven by passion, curiosity, or even a basic understanding of the field, but purely by placement statistics and cutoffs. Engineering branches are blindly labeled as “higher” or “lower”, solely based on salary packages rather than the actual knowledge they offer.

The Misconception: Placement > Passion

Most JEE aspirants, fresh out of coaching centers, have little to no idea about what engineering truly is. Their perception of branches is dictated by: • Average and highest CTC figures from college brochures • Cutoff trends that create an illusion of prestige • Peer and parental pressure, pushing them toward “safe” choices

This creates a dangerous cycle where students who might actually enjoy Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace, or even lesser-known interdisciplinary fields end up in CSE, despite having no genuine interest in programming, algorithms, or software development.

The Harsh Reality: Not Everyone Enjoys CSE

CSE placements in IITs and NITs are undeniably strong, thanks to India’s booming IT sector. However, what many aspirants fail to realize is that: • CSE jobs require technical skills and problem-solving abilities. A good package isn’t guaranteed just because you got into the branch. • Interest plays a huge role in long-term success. If you dislike coding but chose CSE for money, you might struggle and burn out. • Non-CSE branches are not “lower” or “worse.” In fact, many branches offer excellent careers, especially with specialization and upskilling.

What Should You Do?

Before choosing a branch, take time to research and reflect: 1. Explore different fields – Look at what Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Aerospace, Chemical, and other branches actually teach. 2. Assess your interests – Do you enjoy physics, mechanics, chemistry, or problem-solving outside coding? 3. Think long-term – Placements change over time, but your passion will keep you engaged in your career.

Bottom Line: Choose Wisely, Not Blindly

CSE is an excellent field, but it’s not the only path to success. Many students in Mechanical, Electrical, and other branches have built outstanding careers in core sectors, research, startups, and even software (if they later choose to learn coding). Your four years at IIT/NIT should be about learning, not just chasing packages. Choose a branch where you can truly thrive.

Placements last a season, but passion lasts a lifetime.