Is Sathyabama University Very Strict Even Now?

Overview of Strictness at Sathyabama University
The reputation of Sathyabama University, located in Chennai, India, is known for its stringent approach to academic discipline, including attendance and rule adherence. Despite varying perceptions among students, the university's policies are enforced rigorously to foster a focused academic environment. As of the last update in August 2023, the university has maintained this emphasis on discipline and academic integrity, with students often highlighting it as a means to prepare them for professional settings.

First Year Experience

1st Year

My first semester at Sathyabama University, I faced strict guidelines and expectations right from the beginning. Just two days before the college started, I was assigned to the hostel. Here, I had a dilemma: My first new mobile phone was taken away, making me feel very uncomfortable. However, I quickly learned that mobile usage was allowed, and I returned it after a 10-day period. The dress code was another stringent aspect of the first year. We were not allowed to wear casual wear during college hours and had to wear formal attire with shoes, which was initially challenging and sometimes made me feel like I was attending school.

Another aspect of strictness involved attendance. There were numerous attenders and assistants who ensured that students were following the rules. For instance, if a student was not in formal wear, their ID card would be taken. This was a practice known as Sri Rama Raksha. Additionally, wandering around unnecessarily was discouraged, and any ID cards found in unauthorized areas would be confiscated.

Second Year and Beyond

2nd Year

During the second year, the strictness began to evolve. There was a significant change due to an incident involving a student who committed suicide after being caught during an exam. This situation ignited frustration among the students, leading to a reevaluation of the strict rules. Over time, the pressure regarding formal attire and other regulations decreased. Students gained more confidence and were less concerned with adhering to these rules.

3rd and 4th Year

By the third and fourth years, the rules began to ease further. The most notable change was the introduction of the college badge, which required strict adherence to entry and exit times. While it was initially challenging, the seniority of the students provided a degree of comfort. Additionally, the focus shifted towards preparation for placements rather than following strict rules.

Impacts of External Factors

External factors such as the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic further impacted the strictness at Sathyabama University. The placement classes and mock tests became the primary focus, and everyone had to adapt to the new circumstances.

Conclusion

While Sathyabama University has a reputation for strictness, the experiences of students can vary widely. The university's approach to discipline is intended to prepare students for professional environments and maintain a focused academic atmosphere. As of my last update, the university continued to emphasize discipline and academic integrity, with policies reflecting a gradual loosening in response to student feedback and changing circumstances.

Please share your own experiences and insights in the comments section below!