I joined Udgam in 2005 and distinctly remember my first day in junior kg. My class teacher then was Rekha Mam, who was extremely kind and courteous towards her students, especially me. I was, and continue to be, a teacher’s pet, much to the chagrin of my fellow students! I remember feeling like a fish out of the water on the first day of school. However, as time passed, I made wonderful friends and started feeling more confident about participating in class. I have always had a penchant for talking, and I loved discussing everything apart from what was taught in class. This annoyed a few of my teachers, but I was a kid, so I managed to get away with it most of the time. As years passed, however, I became friends with a student who loved to read and could thus communicate very fluently in English. He was also very good at academics and inspired me to improve myself. It is, after all, crucial to have good company in school because the people you hang out with shape your behaviour. Thus, I started reading voraciously, with a newfound hunger to learn. This also made me more focused on my studies as I grew older, and I started realising what I was good at and the fears I needed to overcome. I was fascinated whenever I read History since it gave us a glorious glimpse into the past. I also eagerly awaited the English and Hindi Classes since I loved to read about interesting things written by interesting people. I also particularly enjoyed participating in speech, debate, and declamation competitions, many of which I was fortunate to win. All of this led me to declare my major in Political Science and Minor in Economics at the University of Bath in England. It was a lovely time since I could study everything I dreamt of studying, from political philosophy to international relations. It also allowed me to connect with people worldwide, which helped me learn something new from everyone. At the same time, I learned how to divide my time among multiple activities, which included studying, grocery shopping, cooking, socialising, and cleaning, in that order. However, my trip was cut short due to Covid, which led me to return home. Then, I decided to stay back and continue my undergraduate education in Ahmedabad. Fortunately, after months of arduous effort and desperate prayers, I was offered a place at Ahmedabad University. Herein, I decided to change my major to Economics, a calculated decision paying off. However, given my humanities background, wherein I did not have an option to opt for math, I struggled to keep up with what was taught in class. Economics requires excellent mathematical skills, cognitive aptitude, and coding knowledge. I particularly dreaded Math in school, a fear that continued haunting me until recently. I was determined to overcome this fear of mine. With frantic practice and absolute faith, I passed with flying colors in my Intermediate Calculus Exam and other advanced-level Economics courses, thanks to the teaching pedagogy at Ahmedabad University. At the same time, I have further honed my writing skills by joining the Magazine Club at the University, where I have contributed articles to four editions, along with multiple other pieces for the newsletter and our social media page. Unsurprisingly, I chose to write about political issues and pieces on history, architecture, music, and sports. My years at school were crucial in shaping my interests, which have manifested in the form of these articles. I have also learned how to lead a team, organise events hosting national and international dignitaries, and write and narrate impromptu speeches at such events effectively and efficiently. I am grateful to my outstanding teachers in school and university, who have pushed me to become a better version of myself daily. I want to give a special shoutout to Sharmistha Mam, Neeti Mam, Pooja Mam, Doyel Mam, Krupali Mam, Seema Mam, and so many other outstanding teachers who have encouraged me to give my absolute best in my field of interest; your support and guidance means a lot to me. Lastly, I genuinely hope you get a chance to push yourself out of your comfort zone and continue nurturing your strengths and overcoming your weaknesses. This mantra will allow you to thrive in your personal and professional endeavours.
By: Satya Sunil Andani