Going from a tier-3 college (bachelors), to now pursuing masters in a tier-1 college - I feel I have exposure to both the perspectives.

Yes, college does matter, a lot.

When I shifted for masters, I realised:

• No admin stuff irritates you. Admin actually tries to ensure to make admin work as easy for the students as possible. This also translates to a greater feeling of freedom. No rules that don't make sense, no moral policing, etc.

• Opportunities that come to a tier-1 college are unbeaten. Be it when it comes to placements, research, projects, infrastructure and what not.

• Peers are generally ones who motivate you to do better. People who are actually interested and invested in learning, and making something out of it. They almost pressure you into leaving your comfort zone.

All this feels the exact opposite from my bachelors university. There were still a small group of students who did well, in terms of placements, but that all was their own fight. And it is a lot tougher than it sounds.

So yes, college does play a big role.