O.P. Jindal: Plethora of possibilities

In this multidisciplinary system of education, ideas begin to flow both in and outside the class

As summer rolls out, high school students in their graduating years worry about university. They wonder if the brochures they flip through and the websites they scan over are going to be anything like they appear to be.
At the O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU) in Haryana, there's excitement and cheer for both the incoming as well as existing students. 
"The concept of the Buddy Project was a unique idea that a genial professor and a few students came up with to make the new students feel at home," says a university spokesperson. "The sense of camaraderie and warmth is what resonates with all those who associate themselves with the university."
As you set foot in campus, the first things you notice are the sprawling gardens and the majestic Indian flag flying high, points out the spokesperson. "Spread across an 80-acre campus, it is among the most beautiful campuses in India. Its striking features include the lush green lawns, the floodlit football ground, the library and global reading room, the tennis courts and the latest addition to it all - the swimming pool. When I look around, I see opportunity. Opportunity to grow, to establish, to learn and to pay it forward."
According to the spokesperson, in this multidisciplinary system of education, ideas begin to flow both in and outside the class. "The art of conversation is kept alive in the corridors. The courses that you choose do not limit your learning."
JGU comprises six schools - Jindal Global Law School, Jindal Global Business School, Jindal School of International Affairs, Jindal School of Government and Public Policy, Jindal School of Liberal Arts and Humanities and Jindal School of Journalism and Communication. 
The electives offered by each school are available to students across disciplines. With an array of options for semester exchanges and summer schools, JGU offers a truly international experience as well. The internship programmes are instrumental in the growth of the student community and assists students to get the kind of practical experience one needs in today's day and age. 
As a research focused university, there is a constant endeavour to build research centres that allow both faculty and students to work together. 
"As dusk sets in, JGU lights up," says the spokesperson. "With the sportsmen and sportswomen hard at play across various disciplines and the numerous societies, ranging from debating to music, film to drama, the complex is buzzing with activities as the afterhours kick in."
A strong council of democratically elected individuals oversee all aspects of the student life and represent the student community. "Faculty and staff are among the finest in the country and are recruited from different corners of the globe. The human resources at JGU is what makes it unique - determined, professional, experienced, approachable and highly qualified faculty that are dedicating their time and energy to make a difference. People make institutions and JGU is no exception."

• India