My Journey At ABV-IIITM

I haven’t truly lived my life if I’m honest. I always thought I held myself back, burdening myself with responsibility, with the fear of my choices looming over me.

From the moment I stepped into ABV-IIIT Gwalior, I envisioned it as a transformative experience—a place where I could meet like-minded individuals, discover my passions, and explore the vast opportunities that lay before me. The allure of newfound freedom was intoxicating, and I imagined myself flourishing in an environment that encouraged both academic and personal growth. However, looking back, I realize my focus was overwhelmingly on academics rather than the broader social experience.

The Real Value of College Life

College is not just about academics; it’s about learning how to live in a society.

Reflecting on my journey at ABV-IIITM Gwalior, I resonate deeply with the words of Robert Frost: “I am not a teacher, but an awakener.” College life extends far beyond the classroom. While academic achievements are important, the lessons learned outside of lectures are equally vital. My journey taught me several key lessons:

• Developing Social Skills: Engaging with people from diverse backgrounds, learning to navigate different personalities, and building lasting relationships have been crucial. I participated in group projects, joined clubs, and attended various events, all of which enhanced my ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
• Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone: As Helen Keller said, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” Whether it was taking on leadership roles in student organizations or participating in activities that pushed my boundaries, these experiences fostered personal growth. I learned to take risks, embrace failures, and celebrate successes.
• Recognizing Your Place in the World: Understanding that I am part of a larger community was a humbling experience. Volunteering for social causes and participating in community service projects helped me realize the impact I could have on the world around me.
• Understanding the Impact of Your Actions: Every decision I made, from small daily choices to significant life decisions, contributed to shaping my future. This awareness instilled a sense of responsibility and accountability in me.

The Journey So Far: A Blur of Experiences

Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.

As my college journey nears its end, I find myself reflecting on a whirlwind of experiences, emotions, and growth. On one hand, I achieved many of the goals I set for myself, such as excelling academically and building a strong professional network. On the other hand, my to-do list kept expanding as I discovered new interests and opportunities. College has been a complex tapestry of satisfaction and yearning, filled with countless moments that have shaped who I am today.

Throughout my years at ABV-IIIT Gwalior, academics played a pivotal role in my life. The rigorous coursework and challenging projects pushed me to my limits, igniting a passion for learning and discovery. Each semester brought new subjects and professors, each with their unique teaching styles and perspectives. The late nights spent poring over textbooks, the exhilaration of mastering difficult concepts, and the satisfaction of acing exams were all part of this academic journey.

• Library Resources: The Central Library at ABV-IIIT Gwalior is a treasure trove of knowledge. With its extensive collection of books, journals, and digital resources, it provided a conducive environment for study and research. I spent countless hours here, diving deep into subjects and preparing for exams.
• Research Projects: Engaging in research projects allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. Collaborating with professors and fellow students on these projects was a deeply enriching experience that honed my analytical and problem-solving skills.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: The well-equipped labs and modern classrooms at ABV-IIIT Gwalior enhanced the learning experience. The access to the latest technology and software tools was instrumental in my academic development.

Extracurricular Activities :

While academics were crucial, my extracurricular activities added vibrancy to my college life. I joined various clubs and societies that aligned with my passions and interests. These activities were a source of joy and personal growth:

• Student Organizations: Being part of student organizations helped me develop leadership and organizational skills. Whether it was organizing events, managing budgets, or leading a team, these experiences taught me the importance of teamwork and effective communication.
• Cultural Fests and Competitions: Participating in cultural fests and competitions was a thrilling experience. Aurora, our annual cultural fest, was a highlight. It was not just about showcasing talent but also about celebrating diversity and creativity. Each event was a learning opportunity, where I discovered new cultures and art forms.
• Sports and Fitness: Engaging in sports and fitness activities was essential for maintaining a healthy balance between mind and body. Whether it was early morning jogs, late-night basketball games, or yoga sessions, these activities kept me physically active and mentally refreshed.

Aurora: A Memory Etched in Time

One of my earliest and most vivid memories is of my first cultural fest, Aurora.

Aurora wasn’t just an event; it was an experience that encapsulated the essence of college life. The cultural fest was a celebration of talent, creativity, and community spirit. While the fest itself is a bit of a blur, the preparation for it remains vivid:

• Buzzing Anticipation: The entire college was alive with excitement and energy. Students from all disciplines came together to contribute their skills and ideas.
• Tireless Work: We dedicated countless hours to planning, organizing, and ensuring everything was perfect. Whether it was arranging the stage, coordinating with performers, or managing logistics, everyone played a crucial role.
• Inviting the Masses: Calling thousands of people to invite them to the fest was both exhilarating and challenging. It taught me the importance of outreach and the power of a personal invitation.

These moments taught me the value of teamwork, dedication, and community spirit.

Cherishing the Unseen Moments

The most cherished memories aren’t of grand events but of the quiet, sleepless nights spent with friends.

It’s the simple, unseen moments that stand out the most. As C.S. Lewis once said, “Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.'” These moments were filled with:

• Late-Night Conversations: Engaging in deep and meaningful discussions that lasted until dawn, strengthening our bonds. We talked about our dreams, fears, and everything in between, often losing track of time.
• Endless Laughter: Sharing jokes and stories, creating a carefree environment where time seemed to stand still. These moments were filled with joy and camaraderie, reminding me of the importance of human connection.
• Shared Experiences: The small, everyday moments, such as studying together, cooking meals, or simply hanging out, brought us closer together and created lifelong friendships. These experiences were the bedrock of my college life.
• Roommates and Hostel Life: Living in a hostel was an adventure in itself. The camaraderie developed through late-night study sessions, group outings, and even the occasional disagreements created lifelong memories. Sharing a room with someone taught me the values of compromise and understanding.
• Group Projects and Study Groups: Collaborating on group projects and study sessions brought me closer to my peers. The mutual support and encouragement we provided each other during stressful times created a strong sense of community.
• Social Gatherings and Celebrations: Celebrating birthdays, festivals, and even the smallest of achievements with friends made every moment special. These gatherings were filled with laughter, music, and joy, creating a treasure trove of happy memories.

The Impact of COVID-19: A Hazy Mess

The arrival of COVID-19 abruptly changed everything.

Just as I was settling into my new life, the pandemic snatched it away, creating a “hazy mess” of monotonous days. The lockdown blurred the transitions between days, making it feel like a twisted version of Groundhog Day. Virtual classes, isolation, and uncertainty became the new normal. When college finally reopened after two years, I was secretly relieved but also profoundly changed.

The Final Stretch: A Battle of Resilience

Returning to college felt like preparing for battle, especially before exams.

The return to college was filled with new challenges. As Nelson Mandela famously said, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” This resilience was crucial during the final stretch:

• Exam Preparation: Preparing for exams felt like a final stand, with intense study sessions and mounting pressure. The hostel atmosphere was tense, akin to soldiers preparing for a decisive battle.
• Fear of Failure: The anxiety of potentially failing subjects was a constant companion. This fear pushed me to study harder, but it also took a toll on my mental health.
• True Friendships: Realizing who my true friends were and relying on each other for support during tough times. These friendships provided a crucial support system, helping me navigate the post-lockdown reality.
• Adapting to Change: Adjusting to the new normal, where nothing felt the same and everyone had changed in some way. The pandemic left a lasting impact on all of us, altering our perspectives and priorities.

Despite these challenges, I grew stronger and more resilient, understanding that things would never be the same.

Unforgettable Moments: Joy Amidst Adversity

Despite the hardships, there were moments of joy and camaraderie.

Even in the face of adversity, there were moments that brought immense joy. As J.R.R. Tolkien wrote, “Not all those who wander are lost.” These wanderings led to:

• Late-Night Walks: Roaming the campus at night, finding solace in the quiet and cool air. These walks were a time for reflection and bonding, away from the pressures of academic life.
• Sunrise from the Gwalior Fort: Staying up all night just to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Gwalior from the fort. It was a moment of pure beauty and tranquility, shared with close friends.
• Stargazing: Spending sleepless nights gazing at the clear sky, finding peace and wonder in the stars. These moments were a reminder of the vastness of the universe and the small but significant role we play in it.

These experiences made the bad times bearable and the good times unforgettable.

A Call to Action: Embrace Your Power

We are the future of this college and this nation.

As students, we often forget the power we hold. We are the future of this college and this nation. Our collective strength can drive change and address the challenges we face. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” I urge you to make the most of your time here. These four to five years might seem long, but they will pass in the blink of an eye.

In conclusion, college is a unique phase of life that blends academic learning with personal growth. Embrace every moment, step out of your comfort zone, and create memories that you’ll cherish forever. Time slips away like grains of sand—make sure you’re living it fully.