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Parents and students across India have a certain fascination for the Indian Institute of Technology, but not Vrunda Rathi, the JEE Main 2017 topper among girls. While students have been vying for a place at one of the IITs, the Nashik girl has opted to pursue a bachelor's degree at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. Rathi later wants to take up research at the institute.

Rathi scored a total of 321 out of 360 in the JEE exams that were held on April 2, and attained the 71st rank, the highest among women.

"I've always been sure about pursuing a career in research and for that purpose, IISc Bangalore is where I'm headed. I have not yet decided which particular course I will choose at IISc, but it will definitely be research oriented," Hindustan Times quoted Rathi as saying.

A student of Loknete Vyankatrao Hiray Arts' Science and Commerce College in Nashik, Rathi explained that she is more interested in research than in engineering. She intends to study mathematics. She noted that she started preparing for the exams since she was in the 11th standard and the efforts have clearly paid off. She also believes that two years is sufficient time to crack these exams if one puts in the right hours and dedication.

However, the 17-year-old also knows how to have fun and is passionate about playing the flute. "I cannot study for too many hours in a row, so I used to take breaks and play the flute off and on. After finishing my Class 12 exam I started studying around 6 hours a day for JEE," she added.

Rathi, who also received a congratulatory call from RK Chaturvedi, the chairperson of the Central Board of Secondary Education, is now preparing for the JEE Advanced examinations set to held on May 21.

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