The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) has launched “Your IITK Academic Compass”, an insightful brochure crafted to provide undergraduate students with a comprehensive, experience-based roadmap for thriving in the challenging yet rewarding academic environment at IITK.

The brochure responds to a long-standing issue identified by the faculty: although students enter IITK after clearing one of the world's toughest exams, many arrive disoriented, uncertain about how to navigate the academic system, adjust to hostel life, or where to get guidance when needed. This booklet aims to ease that transition and help students begin their journey with clarity, confidence, and direction.

Speaking about the motivation behind this initiative, Professor Braj Bhushan, Deputy Director, emphasized the purpose of this unique publication: "Academics at IITK are demanding, and through this brochure, we want to acknowledge this reality, while also providing a roadmap that facilitates proper involvement of students in academics, enjoying the learning process, and growing holistically. It is about making academics meaningful and helping students see the bigger purpose of their journey here."

The initiative is part of a broader institutional effort. IIT Kanpur has recently launched a Centre for Educational Research and Teaching Excellence (CERTEX), dedicated to enhancing the quality and effectiveness of teaching and student engagement. This centre gathered valuable insights about students' learning experiences, challenges, and expectations. These findings and faculty observations laid the foundation for this brochure.

Professor Manoj K. Harbola, Professor-in-Charge, CERTEX, reflected on the genesis of the brochure: "The idea emerged from years of observing and interacting with students. Although students clear the JEE, they can struggle settling into the IITK academic framework in the initial days. They do not know whether to focus only on studies or they can make time for other interests. They are unsure about how to deal with academic challenges or even how to ask for help. So, we decided that we needed a friendly, informal guide. Not a rulebook, but something born out of our day-to-day interactions, insights, and shared experiences with the students. Every word is written by faculty who understand these challenges and care about the students. We did not borrow any material from outside. It comes from the heart, and we believe it sincerely shows through."

The brochure outlines the essentials of navigating academics at IITK, from understanding core and elective courses to exploring interdisciplinary learning, research, dual-degree pathways, etc. Additionally, it takes a broader look at student life. It addresses common fears and shortcomings, offers study strategies, and highlights how to avail the rich extracurricular offerings of IITK judiciously. The aim is to support students in building confidence, finding balance, and making informed, purposeful choices during their time on campus.

Adding a student's perspective, Dr Ashesha Sinha (curator and editor for the brochure), shared: “Being part of the writing process, I felt that the key concerns students usually have were being addressed directly. The content is thoughtfully structured, with each section focusing on a specific aspect of student life at IITK. Students can easily find exactly what they are looking for from the start.”

Your IITK Academic Compass reflects the collective wisdom of a campus community that prioritizes student well-being. More than a document, it is a companion for the journey, helping students make the most of their time at one of India's most rigorous academic institutions.

The brochure is now available in print across all academic departments and hostels. All students, especially those new to the campus, are encouraged to refer to it early and revisit it often as they navigate their unique journeys at IITK.

For more information, please visit www.iitk.ac.in.