Campus Life Stories: An Interaction with Elisha Seb Rengma (B.Optom) from Chitkara University

In an interview with careers360, Elisha Seb Rengma shares her knowledge about Chitkara University, Chandigarh admissions, placements, campus life, etc. She provides information related to Chitkara University facilities, placements, admission process and extracurricular activities, which makes it easy for the students to know much better about the university.

About: Chitkara University, Chandigarh was established in the year 2010. The university offers various types of courses at UG, PG and doctoral levels. Chitkara University courses include B.optometry, BTech, BBA, BCA-MCA, BCA, BSc, BBA, Pharm.D, BA LLB Hons, MBA, MSc, BEd, MDes, ME, PhD and more. Admissions to Chitkara University B.optometry programme is done based on the candidate's performance in a qualifying examination (50% marks in HSC with PCB/ PCM) followed by a personal interview.

Careers360: Tell us something about yourself.

A: My name is Elisha Seb Rengma, and I harbour a deep passion for healthcare, particularly in the realm of comprehensive eye care. I hail from Nagaland, the vibrant land of festivals nestled in the northeastern part of India. Beyond my professional aspirations, I find joy in the simple pleasures of life. I am an avid reader, always delving into new areas of knowledge. In my leisure time, I indulge in various artistic pursuits, experimenting with arts and crafts. Crocheting is one of my cherished hobbies, and I take great pleasure in crafting unique pieces, such as scarves, which I love gifting to my family members.

Careers360: What programme or major are you currently enrolled in and what factors did you consider while choosing Chitkara University and its programme?

A: I am enrolled in the Bachelor of Optometry programme, 2nd year, under Chitkara School of Health and Science (CSHS).

In my search for the ideal college, Chitkara University emerged as the perfect choice, meeting all my criteria for quality education, robust curriculum, and top-notch facilities. Beyond academic excellence, Chitkara offers a vibrant platform for students to discover their true potential and carve out their career paths. Moreover, the plethora of extracurricular activities available here provides ample opportunities to acquire valuable skills while enjoying a well-rounded university experience.

Careers360: What does the admissions process at Chitkara University look like?

A: Chitkara University admission process is smooth sailing because the university instructs us about everything beforehand. After the 1st step of admission, they provide us with our personal university email and roll no. This makes it so much easier because we get updated about every detail in the process. Our designated mentors further guide us in every aspect till our classes begin and later too.

CSHS holds an exclusive orientation programme for us which is a gateway to understanding everything we need to know as we begin our journey here. It's designed to provide us with all the essential information and resources to navigate campus life effectively. From academic programmes to campus facilities, extracurricular opportunities, and student support services, the orientation covers it all. Through engaging presentations, interactive workshops, and guided tours we get acquainted with campus culture, policies, and expectations. It's not just about getting information; it's also about connecting with faculty, staff, and peers, building a sense of belonging and community from day one.

Careers360: How do you manage your time to balance academics, extracurricular activities, and social life? Any academic challenges you faced.

A: I prioritise tasks by assessing their urgency and importance. Till now I have found close to no academic challenges because the course handouts are very well organised while considering students' capabilities also the facilities and faculties are top-notch as they focus primarily on making us understand the concept and gaining clinical skills and practical knowledge.

We got so much exposure to real-life situations through screening camps and field visits which has helped us correlate and understand things better.

Careers360: Are you involved in any clubs, sports, or organisations on campus? How do these activities contribute to your overall college experience?

A: We have access to a plethora of enriching clubs, including coding, happiness, dance, theatre, toastmasters, and many others, which offer a range of classes aimed at enhancing essential life skills such as time management, financial literacy, and much more. These classes had a profound impact on my life, equipping me with valuable tools to navigate the complexities of balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and personal pursuits.

I am currently a member of one of the C2S2 clubs i.e., literayllis. This club has helped me reform and refine my skills in oration and poetry. They conduct various events and competitions for club members. The club also has groups that focus on a particular skill while providing classes or activities. The Club has not only improved my overall well-being but has also opened doors to numerous opportunities. Through their guidance and support, I have been able to strike a balance between my academic commitments and my participation in various extracurricular activities, thus maximising my potential for personal and professional growth.

Careers360: How has college helped you grow personally and professionally? How does Chitkara University, Chandigarh help you stay updated on relevant industry trends or academic resources?

A: The B.Optometry department has inculcated various workshop papers like human values and ethics which enhances my personality as a future medical professional.

We also have a Journal club, this club provides a platform for students to present articles and topics related to optometry, sparking insightful discussions among faculty and peers. I find these sessions particularly beneficial as they not only help clarify doubts but also allow me to learn about the latest trends and advancements in the industry while honing my presentation skills. The department organises regular seminars and guest lectures by experts in the field, providing us with valuable insights and networking opportunities. These interactive sessions further complement our theoretical knowledge and prepare us for real-world challenges in optometry practice.

Careers360: Could you give details on the industry connection that is inbuilt with the course at Chitkara University and its advantages?

A: Well, we are fortunate to have numerous opportunities for industry connections within our programme. One significant avenue is through internships with hospitals and observational experiences, which are regularly organised to provide hands-on learning opportunities. Additionally, the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) hosts various events aimed at offering professional training to students, further enhancing our skill set, and preparing us for the industry. Another invaluable opportunity comes in the form of contact lens training sessions, where industry professionals personally mentor us, providing invaluable insights and guidance.

The annual optometry symposium stands as a highlight of our academic calendar. This symposium brings together leading ophthalmologists, optometrists, and researchers who share their expertise and experiences with us. Through enlightening discussions and presentations, we gain valuable knowledge about emerging trends, advancements in the field, and potential career paths. The symposium serves as a platform for networking and discovering various career opportunities, empowering us to make informed choices about our professional endeavours.

Careers360: How advantageous, in your opinion, is your Chitkara University alumni network connection and in what ways?

A: Having a strong alumni network is incredibly beneficial for us students. They offer valuable mentorship and share their own experiences, which helps us gain practical insights into the industry. Whether it's advice on career paths or tips for securing internships, alumni are always there to guide us. Their support not only helps us navigate our academic journey but also strengthens our connections within the industry. Plus, they often participate in career events and workshops, providing us with firsthand knowledge and advice. Thanks to our alumni we feel more confident about our future career prospects and are better equipped to succeed in the professional world.

Careers360: Internships are an integral part of any student’s life. Please talk about the internship process at your Chitkara University and how it leads to students being placement-ready.

A: The internship process at Chitkara University is meticulously structured to ensure students are well-prepared for the challenges of the professional world. To secure an internship, students must successfully clear all exams by the end of their third year. They are then required to communicate their preferences to the faculty, who in turn, offer guidance and suggest suitable hospitals and clinics for internship opportunities. The faculty actively engages with these institutions to arrange interviews, ensuring that we have ample choices aligned with our interests and career goals.

When it comes to placements, Chitkara University placement cell leaves no stone unturned in assisting us in securing promising opportunities. With a well-organised approach, the placement cell collaborates closely with industry partners to identify suitable placements tailored to our profile and aspirations. Through career counselling sessions, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops, we are equipped with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in interviews and secure placements in reputed organisations.

Careers360: In a nutshell, could you sum up your experiences at Chitkara University?

A: My journey with Chitkara University has been a blend of new learning and triumphs. Academically, I've explored subjects that piqued my curiosity, especially through elective courses. These choices have broadened my perspective and given me a clearer vision of my future profession. Outside the classroom, I've actively participated in competitions, including the book fair competition, where I connected with fellow book enthusiasts and discovered new reading recommendations.

I've had the opportunity to showcase my leadership skills by anchoring and leading events organised by my department. These experiences have helped me refine my oration abilities and boost my confidence.

Today I've not only learned to balance my academic workload with extracurricular activities but also developed resilience and learned how to navigate various situations effectively, thanks to the Chitkara university's diverse range of events and classes.

Disclaimer: This content was distributed by Chitkara University Chandigarh and has been published as part of Careers360’s marketing initiative.