Aradhya Joshi
In Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, continuous learning is essential to keeping pace with a rapidly changing field.For Aradhya Joshi, a recent Computer Science graduate, specializing in AI and ML, from Rajiv Gandhi Proudyogiki Vishwavidyalaya (RGPV), the quest for continuous learning led him to a transformative experience with NPTEL. Recently transitioning into a Software Engineer role at HashedIn, owned by Deloitte, his journey is a testament to the power of dedicated upskilling.
Aradhya’s NPTEL journey began during his college induction four years ago. The session, led by his college SPOC and Dean of Academics, Dr. Nischol Mishra, opened his eyes to the true purpose of NPTEL. It wasn’t merely about earning credits; it was about gaining an edge in a highly competitive global job market. Dr. Mishra emphasized that NPTEL provides a unique opportunity to connect with top-tier faculty from IITs and a vast network of peers, offering core knowledge delivered by the best in the nation. Motivated by this vision, he started with one course, quickly became engrossed, and soon found himself enrolling in three more during his first semester.
For many students, balancing rigorous academic courses with extracurricular responsibilities can be overwhelming. Aradhya, who served as the founding president of the Student Council and held executive roles in various clubs at his college, is no exception. However, he views NPTEL not as a burden, but as a priority that consistently rises to the top.
“It is not a walk in the park in the beginning, but with consistency, it eventually becomes one. It all comes down to your priorities ,” he explains.
He recommends that beginners start with courses they genuinely enjoy, citing ‘Joy of Computing using Python’ and ‘Programming in Modern C++’ as excellent starting points that help build a sustainable learning habit. Over time, completing four to six courses every semester became a natural routine.
While he holds numerous NPTEL certifications, he believes the true value extends far beyond the credentials. Paraphrasing Prof. Indranil Sengupta of IIT Kharagpur, he notes that the joy lies not in the PhD or big degree at the end, but in the path one travels to earn it. NPTEL’s rigorous structure, which includes weekly assignments and proctored exams, ensures that learners actively engage with the material and retain core concepts. Furthermore, he highly values the curated course materials and notes provided, which replaced his habit of unorganized digital notes with structured, easily referenceable knowledge.
This deep engagement also opened doors to new connections. Aradhya shares that sharing his NPTEL achievements on LinkedIn spark a wave of interest among his peers and juniors, leading to meaningful networking opportunities and inspiring others to embark on their own learning journeys.
His journey wasn’t without its challenges. He openly discusses his failures – courses he could not clear and those where he had to retake the exam. Instead of being discouraged, he embraced these setbacks as learning opportunities, re-strategizing his approach and reapproaching the courses. He emphasizes that the goal of NPTEL is not just to award certificates, but to impart lifelong knowledge.
Looking forward, Aradhya is focused on building robust foundations in his upcoming role and preparing to retake the GATE exam to secure admission to a top institute for his Master’s degree. His message to fellow students doubting their decision to enroll is simple and powerful:
“Stop day dreaming and overthinking, Just hit the Enroll Button, attend the course and let the learning/content speak for itself and make you fall in love with learning”.
~written by Elsa Prasad