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Writer's picturePrateek Khanna

Why IMU (Indian Maritime University) Students Should Have Their Official University Email ID

Image Credit: IMU

In an era where digital communication is integral to every facet of life, especially in education and professional development, having an official university email ID is more than just a convenience—it's a critical resource. For students at the Indian Maritime University (IMU), this resource is a key that unlocks numerous opportunities and advantages.


However, not having an official email ID can also pose significant disadvantages, impacting everything from academic performance to career prospects.


Let's discuss into why every IMU student should make full use of their official university email ID and the potential downsides of neglecting this important tool.


Professionalism in Communication

Advantage: First impressions are lasting impressions, particularly in the professional world. When you communicate with potential employers, industry professionals, or academic institutions, an email from an official university domain, such as "yourname@imu.edu.in," immediately signals professionalism and credibility. In the maritime industry, where formal and precise communication is paramount, this professional touch can make all the difference in how your emails are perceived. A university-branded email not only reflects your affiliation with a respected institution but also conveys that you are serious about your studies and career.

Disadvantage of Not Having One: Using a personal email address, especially one with an informal or unprofessional username, can diminish the seriousness with which your communications are received. Emails from addresses like "cooldude123@gmail.com" might not be taken seriously by recruiters or industry professionals, potentially hurting your chances in job applications, internship opportunities, or even in professional networking scenarios. It also creates a barrier in establishing your identity as a committed student of IMU.

Exclusive Access to Academic Resources

Advantage: One of the most significant perks of having an official university email ID is the access it provides to a wealth of academic resources. Many scholarly databases, research journals, and online libraries offer free or discounted access to students with a verified university email. As an IMU student, this access is invaluable for deepening your understanding of maritime subjects, conducting research, or working on projects. By using your official IMU email, you gain entry to these exclusive resources, enhancing your academic experience and giving you a competitive edge.

Disadvantage of Not Having One: Without an official university email, you may miss out on these critical resources. Many platforms require a university email for free or discounted access, meaning you would either have to pay for these resources out of pocket or forego them altogether. This lack of access can limit your ability to perform thorough research, complete assignments effectively, and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in your field. Ultimately, it could negatively impact your academic performance and your overall learning experience at IMU.


Timely University Announcements and Updates

Advantage: Staying informed about university updates, exam schedules, and important announcements is essential for navigating your academic journey smoothly. IMU regularly communicates essential information through official email channels. By actively using your university email ID, you ensure that you receive these updates directly in your inbox, reducing the risk of missing important deadlines, event invitations, or policy changes. Being in the loop helps you stay organized and prepared, which is crucial for maintaining academic success.

Disadvantage of Not Having One: If you don't regularly check your official university email or don't have one at all, you risk missing out on crucial information. Important announcements, such as changes in exam schedules, deadlines for assignments, or opportunities for scholarships and internships, may go unnoticed. This lack of awareness can lead to missed deadlines, reduced opportunities, and unnecessary stress, all of which could detrimentally affect your academic standing and overall university experience.

Facilitated Collaboration and Networking

Advantage: University life is rich with opportunities for collaboration, whether in group projects, research initiatives, or extracurricular activities. Your official IMU email ID serves as a reliable and professional means of communication with your peers, faculty, and external collaborators. It also plays a crucial role in networking within the maritime industry, connecting you with alumni, industry experts, and academic institutions. These connections can be invaluable as you build your career, providing mentorship, job opportunities, and industry insights.

Disadvantage of Not Having One: Without an official university email, you may find it challenging to establish yourself as a credible participant in collaborative projects or networking efforts. Peers and professors might hesitate to engage with someone who uses an informal email address, and external contacts may question your legitimacy as an IMU student. This can limit your ability to fully participate in collaborative efforts, miss out on networking opportunities, and ultimately weaken your professional network—an essential asset in the maritime industry.

Enhanced Security and Data Protection

Advantage: In today’s digital world, cybersecurity is a growing concern. University email systems are typically equipped with advanced security protocols designed to protect users from phishing attacks, spam, and other cyber threats. This level of protection is often superior to that of personal email accounts. By using your official IMU email ID, you can communicate securely, ensuring that your personal data, academic work, and sensitive information are safeguarded against potential breaches.

Disadvantage of Not Having One: Relying on a personal email account, which may lack robust security features, exposes you to a higher risk of cyber threats. Phishing attacks, which are often disguised as legitimate emails, can lead to compromised personal data, loss of important academic work, or even financial theft. Moreover, recovering from such attacks can be time-consuming and stressful, potentially disrupting your studies and eroding your trust in online communication platforms.

Strengthened Institutional Identity

Advantage: Your university email ID is more than just a digital address—it's a reflection of your institutional identity. Using an email address linked to IMU reinforces your association with the university, conveys a sense of belonging, and showcases your pride in being part of a respected institution. This identity is crucial during your time as a student and as you transition into the professional world. A university email is a badge of honour, signaling your connection to IMU's legacy and its community.

Disadvantage of Not Having One:Without an official university email, you miss out on this important aspect of your identity as an IMU student. This can make it harder to connect with the university's alumni network, participate in university-affiliated events, or even engage with external stakeholders who recognize and respect the IMU brand. This lack of institutional identity could make you feel disconnected from the IMU community, potentially diminishing your university experience and the benefits that come with it.

Simplified Verification Processes

Advantage: Throughout your academic and professional journey, there will be times when you need to verify your student status, such as when applying for scholarships, accessing student discounts, or enrolling in certain programs. An official university email ID simplifies this verification process, as organizations and service providers are more likely to trust and accept an email from a recognized institution like IMU. This saves you time and effort, ensuring that you can quickly and easily access the benefits available to you as a student.

Disadvantage of Not Having One: If you don't have an official university email, you may face challenges in verifying your student status. Many services and organisations require a university email for verification, and without one, you might be denied access to certain resources, discounts, or opportunities. This can limit your ability to take advantage of offers designed to support students, potentially costing you money or missing out on valuable experiences.

Continued Access Post-Graduation

Advantage:Many universities, including IMU, offer email forwarding services that allow students to retain their official email ID even after graduation. This continuity is particularly valuable when maintaining professional contacts or accessing old emails for reference. It also helps keep your communication consistent, especially when you continue to engage with the university as an alumnus or need to access university resources in the future. Having a university email that persists beyond your student years helps you stay connected to the IMU community, supporting long-term networking and career development.

Disadvantage of Not Having One: Without an official university email, you lose the opportunity to maintain this continuity after graduation. This can result in lost connections, difficulties in accessing past communications, and a weakened link to the IMU alumni network. Over time, this lack of continuity could hinder your ability to stay informed about alumni events, career opportunities, and other benefits that come with being an IMU graduate.

The official university email ID is a powerful tool for IMU students, offering a wide range of benefits that extend from academic success to professional development and cybersecurity. By actively using your IMU email, you enhance your credibility, gain access to exclusive resources, and build a strong network that will support your future career in the maritime industry. Conversely, neglecting to use this tool can lead to missed opportunities, increased risks, and a diminished sense of belonging within the IMU community.

Just as Wikipedia emphasises the importance of maintaining access to verifiable facts in the age of AI, IMU students should recognise the value of their university resources, including the official email ID. It is not merely a means of communication, but a vital link to your academic and professional future. Make the most of this resource to ensure that you are fully equipped to succeed both during your time at IMU and beyond.


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