From College Tales to Lifelong Lessons: A Heartfelt Thank You

As I sit down to write this, I can’t help but think about the crazy ride these last few years have been. The journey which feels like a blur with moments that I wish I could freeze, revisit, and never let go of. But putting together all those diary entries that I had fortunately written, I realize just how much these memories mean to me—each one a piece of jigsaw of who I am today, a piece of the story that I never want to forget.

It all started with the two years of preparation—honestly, some of the toughest days. Two years of sleepless nights and countless sacrifices. Finally, stepping into IIT Bombay was a dream come true, but life had other plans. COVID-19 disrupted everything, and the first few semesters of this long-awaited journey were spent online, far from the campus life I had envisioned. I was stuck in front of a laptop screen, trying to make sense of it all from home.

When I finally returned to campus in 5th September 2021 8:01 am, I thought things would fall into place. Those first three months were rough, so overwhelming. But then, in one of those reflective moments (probably at 2:40 AM on Jan 21), that got me back on track. Not that the journey suddenly became a cakewalk, but it had its share of ups and downs.

As one said, “Life is a tragedy when seen in close-up, but a comedy in long-shot.” And looking back, I’ve got to admit, Moments that made us sad are the ones that I remember and laugh about the most. Whether losing an election, getting rejected in 17 PoR interviews (aced the next 5 on the trot) or scoring an absolute 0/20 in a CS course after writing 12 pages (passed the course fortunately, got a minor. xd), it has been a rollercoaster experience.

Now, Finally here comes the long boring part: Taking a moment for Gratitude. So much to appreciate and many more to thank:

First and foremost, to my Hostel 6 mates. Seriously, I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to share this journey with. Whether it was late-night study sessions that turned into deep philosophical debates (or just random banter) or those epic GC events that unfolded. For all those who considered Hostel 6 to be dead, DM me, I’m sure I’ll convince you to unearth the treasures it held.??

Next up, my Chemical Engineering Department. We’ve seen it all—from endless problem sets & assignments to those endsems where we just hoped to pass. A special thanks to my team at AZeo for their support throughout this journey. I’m grateful for the memories we’ve made together.

IIT Bombay Sports also deserves a huge mention—sports became my escape, my daily dose of sanity. Being on the ground at 7 PM every day was more than a routine; it was a lifeline. The thrill of winning two medals after 12 years, and that unforgettable game against IIT Delhi with hundreds of people cheering—it doesn’t get better than that.

"Kuch Accha Naam Socho" - A group that randomly came out of a "Lonavala Chalna hai" Trip, The Football team- My second home, Election Groups, My Lab Groups, My Damp Team, My Mentees, Late Night Walk Friends, And my friends from other hostels—each one of them who played a unique role in my journey, contributed to this beautiful ensemble of experiences, I am deeply thankful.

I hope I haven't missed anyone, But if I did: to all the people I crossed paths with, during this journey—you might not know it, but you taught me so much. Whether it was finding joy in the smallest things, celebrating even in the face of sorrow (probably something that didn't go our way), or just being there when it mattered most, you all played a part in shaping who I am today.?

As I pack up and leave this incredible place, I realize just how much I’m leaving behind. The memories we’ve made, the stories we’ll laugh about for years (For Sure!! cause I ain't forgetting any)—they’re all etched into my heart. I desperately hope that the bonds we’ve formed really last a lifetime (not just namesake), just like the memories of these FOUR AMAZING YEARS AT IIT BOMBAY.

Signing Off,

Chaitanya Ramprasad. IIT Bombay Batch 2020-2024