27/06/2016
Welcome Fresher’s! Since you guys have so many queries regarding BPDC, I am creating this generalized post about academics, hostel , sports etc.
Academics:
It’s an extension of what you might have learned in your 11th and 12th grade. The first year courses are common for all streams. You might have 5 components in general. One closed book test (25%), One Open book test (20% , don’t go by the name), Two quizzes (8% and 7%) and One compre (40%). According to the latest circular, first year students need to have 70% attendance to avoid RC. So hostellers, keep this in mind.
Sports:
If you’re into cricket, basketball, volleyball, badminton, table tennis, football then I would suggest you to approach the team captains and let them know about your interest. They will be able to guide you through the selection process. We have events like BITS Sports festival where you can showcase your passion and win laurels for your college.
Hostel:
There are 4 blocks for guys and 1 for girls (No that’s not gender discrimination! ). You guys might be getting the D Block. C Block has a gym (Upgraded recently, thanks to the work done by student council), mess and a laundry room. The guys are allowed to stay out till 10pm and can extend it with the prior permission of hostel warden. (I would suggest you to get that approval in-order to avoid confrontation with the security guy). I am not sure about the curfew timings for girls (Its till 9pm I guess). If it’s any consolation, you can be in the library (during tests) or night canteen till 12:00AM. The mess food is just fine with occasional decline in taste (The first few days, the food may taste really good. But latter it might change :P ). But you always have an option to order from set-al-sham or from other restaurants you may like. If you’re broke (Everyone goes through that phase), get tons of maggi from India to get through these hard times.
Transportation:
Hostlers will have a shuttle bus (4 times on Friday and 2 times on Saturday (This is paid I guess)) going to Deira City Center. Alternative to this is the RTA bus, which comes every 15 min and takes 45 min to reach the nearest metro station(Rashidiya). Therefore, the college is pretty far from the city. Day scholars, you can avail the bus facilities.
Extra Curricular:
If you’re into drama, dance, singing, photography and fashion get in touch with the club representatives. You will be briefed on it during the orientation. We have amazing tech (Enginuity & Technofest) and cultural fests (Sparks, Jashn and Artex) which will blow your minds. Again thanks for the work done by EMC and Student council for putting up such shows. When opportunity presides, I would strongly recommend you to showcase your talent and not wait till your second year. Ideally, Icebreaker event will be the place to do it.
College fees:
I have no idea about this. Get in touch with the admin or finance department.
Grocery and clinic:
Yes! There is a grocery (Over-priced) and a clinic on campus. You can find vending machines around the campus (Cheaper option) for your occasional urge to buy a soft drink .
Hostel rooms:
They are small rooms with a window (Get curtains to avoid spending dirhams on your first day). Don’t loose your room keys. You will have to pay 100 aed for a new one (I experienced it). Other than that, it’s a nice place.
Wifi:
Since it’s classified as a basic necessity in 2016 version of maslow's hierarchy of needs (If you don’t know what that is, wait till 2nd year management course), the whole campus including the hostel is covered. Again, thanks to student council. Enjoy Netfix.
Student Council:
This is a prestigious platform for you to voice your beliefs and concerns. In my 4 years’ experience, I have seen this college grow exponentially. This was only possible with the help of these people. In order to be a part of this, start participating and volunteering for events. Be helpful to your peers. Even if you don’t get that position you will surely get respect from your batch mates. One example is Divyã Hênry who got a standing ovation during this year’s farewell for her unconditional support.
(Side-note: We passed because of her notes.)
Ragging:
This is strictly prohibited on campus and in hostel. But friendly intros ;) are fine I guess. Just be cordial with them and they might really help u in future. Telling you with my personal experience.
FAQs:
Can we transfer from BPDC to any of its indian counterparts?
As far as I know, that’s not possible!
Marks required to get into BPDC ?
Its 60% I guess. Check with the admissions department. (If anyone knows something about this, please comment below!)
Do we need to buy those text books?
I would strongly suggest you to buy them from your seniors (Win Win situation for both the parties). You will have to spend a fraction of what it actually costs. Plus, you might have luggage issues.
Will I get a job after 4 years?
I can’t predict the future but I would suggest you to build your CV from the very beginning of your college. In terms of academics as well as extra circular activities.
Last Advice:
You are going to have some awesome experiences in these 4 years. Make use of this time wisely. Party hard but don’t let it affect your studies (You will find people who will demotivate you. Say stuff like I don’t care about marks etc etc. Mostly, that’s a lie). Make wise friends who can help you balance everything. As a departing senior, My one advice would be to set your goals high. That feeling when you achieve them is priceless. (Disclaimer: this is not limited to academics but to anything you truly believe in. BPDC will present you with a great platform. Make sure you’re spontaneous enough to grab it.)
Hope I have clarified all your doubts. Feel free to comment below if you have any queries that needs to be answered.
