Sneha, who hails from Kota in Rajasthan, Sneha is extremely modest about her achievements. She is all set to head to the United States for further studies.

Sneha, who did her schooling in Rajasthan, was always a topper. She won the IIT silver medal for topping the B Tech course in metallurgical engineering and material science.

On the IIT experience

It was great studying at IIT. I studied metallurigcal engineering, which involves research on materials science. It's a very interesting subject. IIT is not just about studies. You also get to participate in various activities.

The course is not tough, about 2 hours of study everyday was enough for me. For IIT-JEE, you have to work hard after your 10th standard. Two years of hard work will ensure you have a place at IIT.

Advice to IIT aspirants

Must work hard, must have problem-solving skills, should learn basic principles. I used to study for about 8 hours everyday. I used to attend coaching classes at Bansals.

Next move

I have been selected for a PhD at Stanford University to do research, after which I would like to come back and work in India. India offers a lot of opportunities and I belong to this place. Besides, my parents are here, so I would love to come back.

Photograph: IITians get together, one more time!