My Five year Odyssey of Learning, Growth, and Lifelong?Memories

As my five-year tenure at college draws to a close, I find myself contemplating a journey that has truly transformed me. It has been a period marked by personal growth, surmounted challenges, and a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. From the initial days of orientation to the poignant finality of graduation, I have delved into a myriad of academic disciplines, including Economics, Statistics, and Mathematics. Beyond the classroom, I’ve actively participated in extracurricular activities and sports, cultivated meaningful relationships, and uncovered aspects of my identity previously unknown to me.

The first nine months of my college life signified a fresh start. Transitioning from the regimented confines of school to the liberating expanses of college was akin to experiencing the freedom of a bird in flight?—?unfettered by tardy slips or rigid dress codes. It was a period brimming with firsts, which, regrettably, came to an abrupt pause with the onset of the pandemic in 2020.

Here are some key takeaways and learning on various topics from these five years:

Competitions

Competition has always been an integral part of my life, starting with sports. When I realized that open sporting events with hassle-free registration were scarce, I pivoted to participating in Case Study and Data Analytics competitions. Despite the challenges of conflicting exam schedules that often forced me to compete solo in team events, I persevered. Although the outcomes weren’t always victorious, with losses in National Final rounds and a close fourth-place finish among the top teams, the experiences were invaluable.

Internships

The pandemic, while bringing its share of hardships, also introduced new modes of working. I was able to secure internships that I could undertake from the comfort of my home during my semester not getting hampered. My roles were varied, encompassing Research, Analytics, and Consulting. These internships not only enriched me with industry knowledge but also facilitated valuable interactions with managers and colleagues. There was a point when I ambitiously juggled two internships simultaneously. While I don’t regret the decision, it did lead to a state of overexertion.

Sports

Having devoted a significant portion of my time to sports during my school years and eagerly participating in inter-school tournaments, the discovery of college-level competitions was exhilarating. I had the good fortune of being selected for the University’s Table Tennis team for the East Zonals. Although the outcomes weren’t as favorable as we had hoped, the memories of those tournament days in KIIT, Bhubaneswar, remain fondly etched in my mind. It was my first time away from home without the presence of my parents, an experience that allowed me to bond with peers from various universities and explore the city’s nightlife.

Clubs and Societies

My freshman year brought with it exposure to diverse clubs, such as the Debating Society ( Jadavpur University Model United Nations ), where I encountered some of the university’s most eloquent speakers. Engaging in debates and competitions catalyzed my transformation from a reserved and timid student to a self-assured orator, unafraid to engage and socialize. My involvement with the E-Cell, Jadavpur University marked a pivotal turn in my career path, introducing me to seniors from different faculties whom I might never have approached otherwise. It was here that I was acquainted with Case Studies, Consulting, and the fundamentals of Analytics, setting the groundwork for my desired career. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some of the most dedicated and visionary entrepreneurs, witnessing their dreams materialize through sheer determination. Ascending from a coordinator to a core member of the club has been a rewarding journey, filled with operational and managerial responsibilities, from recruiting new members to organizing events and securing sponsorships. Post-graduation, I joined the core team of Finance & Consulting Club, Jadavpur University , where I interacted with brilliant minds eager to delve into Finance, despite lacking formal training in the field. Our collective efforts over the years have led to international collaborations and industry partnerships.

Networking

From the outset, I was keen on networking, seeking out high achievers to glean insights from their experiences. Being a part of a premier institution afforded me opportunities to connect with entrepreneurs and industry experts. My first internship was with a firm founded by an alumnus of my university, which was an invaluable experience that allowed me to contribute my research and perspectives.

Events

My eagerness to immerse myself in college clubs and events was palpable from the beginning. Looking back, I was involved in nearly every club and society at the time. I served as an Organizing Committee (OC) member for various events, assisting with logistics and sponsorships. Over time, I narrowed my focus to two main clubs: the Entrepreneurship Cell and the Debating Society. My roles ranged from being an OC for the Jadavpur University Model United Nations (JUMUN) and E-Summit to leading departments in these events, providing me with a wealth of diverse experiences.

Friendship

Last but not least, friendships have been the bedrock of my strength throughout this journey. College introduced me to a new environment where, aside from a handful of school friends who enrolled alongside me, I was a stranger. The prospect of forging new friendships was daunting for the school-era Vishal, yet it proved to be both exhausting and emotionally rewarding. Today, I am grateful for the incredible individuals I’ve met who have become cherished friends.

My college years were not solely about obtaining a degree; they represented a profound journey of self-discovery, knowledge acquisition, and the pursuit of aspirations. These experiences have laid a solid foundation for my future endeavors and have been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. As I transition from the comforts of college life, I carry with me a sense of fulfillment from both the triumphs and setbacks I’ve encountered.