My Authentic Experience and Concerns at SRMS IMS Bareilly: A Toxic Academic Environment
Introduction
I am writing this piece based on my personal experience and observations from incidents reported by my close acquaintances. I haven’t visited the college personally, but the occurrences and the testimonials received have painted a concerning picture of the student life at SRMS IMS Bareilly. Here, I will share my insights and the experiences that led to these concerns.
Incidents and Loss
A couple of years ago, my cousin Yash Kumar, an MBBS student at SRMS IMS, tragically committed suicide. This was followed by the heart-wrenching news of five other students taking their own lives over the past six years. These incidents have deeply affected me and many others. In addition, a bright student who took admission in Btech also left the hostel and expressed her intent to commit suicide if she had to stay any longer. These events are painful reminders of the challenges faced by students at SRMS IMS.
Campus Environment and Hostel Life
The college atmosphere is highly depressive, and students are often judged harshly based on their social status, fashion choices, and friend groups. Outings that were supposed to be scheduled monthly were eventually canceled. The restricted format of hosting outings and even going out as a mixed group highlights the lack of flexibility and inclusivity in the college.
The campus is described as small and confined, with an unhygienic food court where students, patients, and even dogs eat. This environment does not support a sense of joy or normal college life, but instead encourages a strict boarding school experience. This dronish and oppressive atmosphere can be detrimental to the mental well-being and general satisfaction of students.
Academic Pressures and Scholarship System
A big concern for the students at SRMS IMS is the intense academic pressure and the unhealthy competition fostered by the scholarship system. Scholarships are awarded based on academic performance, specifically for marks above 75, with 2 lakhs given for over 75% and 30K for just above 70%. This system creates a toxic environment where friendships often dissolve during scholarship competitions, and students focus more on passing exams rather than gaining in-depth knowledge.
The hostel conditions are harsh, especially in the first two years. Triple-sharing rooms exist without a bathroom or toilet, and the AC is switched off automatically from 8 AM to 5 PM. In the third year, students are assigned single rooms based on their ranks, but some still end up living in double-sharing rooms after paying the same amount of money. This inconsistency and unfairness further contribute to the overall dissatisfaction and stress.
The Aftermath and Future Prospects
The post-secondary academic success story for SRMS IMS is bleak. Students who wish to secure good post-graduation seats are better off looking elsewhere, as SRMS IMS often focuses too much on academic achievements and marks rather than practical learning. The unfortunate reality is that no one from this institution has cleared the government seats for post-graduation.
SRMS IMS is a place that can be deeply toxic, not just for the mental health of students but for the overall growth and development. It is imperative to rethink the structure and culture of the institution to prioritize student well-being and genuine learning.
Keywords: SRMS IMS Bareilly, student suicides, campus environment, scholarship system, academic pressure