MBA graduates are not chasing high salaries; 1 in every 5 is starting a business..

The Startup Trend Among College Students: For generations, Indian families have adhered to a set formula as the benchmark for success. Most parents would instill in their children, even during their school years, the belief that the more rigorous and demanding their post-12th-grade education, the more certain a brilliant future career would be. Traditionally, students relied on campus placements to secure employment. However, in recent years, a significant shift has taken place across college campuses in India.

Young people are no longer content to simply stand in line as ‘job seekers’; they are taking the risk to become ‘job creators.’ For them, success is no longer defined by working for an established company, but by building their own venture or startup. This shift is confirmed by the ‘GUESSS India National Survey Report.’ According to this striking survey—supported by IIT Mandi and REVA University, Bengaluru—more than 22% of Indian students have launched their own businesses either while still studying or immediately after graduation.

Understanding the New Trend Among Engineering and MBA Students
Previously, engineering and MBA students would eagerly await campus placements offering multi-crore salary packages. Today, their approach has evolved. B.Tech students, leveraging their technical expertise, are launching apps, AI-based software, or direct-to-consumer (D2C) brands. Meanwhile, MBA students are increasingly opting to become co-founders in early-stage startups or developing their own business models, rather than managing operations for existing companies. For them, taking risks is not a source of fear—it is an opportunity to learn something new.

A Changing Environment on College Campuses
In recent years, many colleges have transformed their infrastructure. Almost every major engineering and management institution now hosts an ‘incubation center.’ During their time on campus, students receive training in developing prototypes, engaging with investors, and crafting comprehensive business plans. Government-backed startup policies and accessible loans have boosted the confidence of young people. In college canteens today, conversations have shifted from mere class notes to topics like ‘valuation’ and ‘business models.’

Tip: If you wish to launch a startup while still studying, rather than trying to do everything alone, form a ‘founding team’ with friends who possess complementary skills—such as a tech expert alongside someone with expertise in finance or marketing. College years are the ideal time for networking and experimenting with new ideas.

Challenges and Risks: Is the path an easy one?
These days, many young people talk about starting a business, and many startup founders even encourage it. However, before embarking on this journey, it is essential to understand that starting a business is no ‘bed of roses.’ Hurdles such as a lack of funding, intense market competition, and the challenge of balancing entrepreneurship with academic studies remain significant. While initial setbacks can sometimes lead to discouragement, the shifting perspectives of families and society are helping young people realize that failure is simply a part of the learning process.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from News18 Hindi. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.