G. H. Raisoni College of Engineering and Management Campus Experience

My Journey Through College: A Reflection on Memories, Growth, and Opportunities

About my college:

G. H. Raisoni College is a popular college in Pune that offers courses in engineering and management. It’s located in a bustling city known for its educational opportunities. The college has modern facilities like labs and classrooms to support learning. Besides studies, the college also encourages students to take part in sports and cultural activities to develop their skills beyond academics. The teachers here are experienced and aim to help students succeed in their careers. Overall, G. H. Raisoni College is a place where students can learn, grow, and prepare for their future.

About myself:

As a third-year student enrolled in the Bachelor of Technology program in Computer Science at G. H. Raisoni College of Engineering and Management (GHRCEM), I have experienced both positive and negative aspects of the college. It is noteworthy that opinions about the college vary among individuals, and one’s perception of the institution is largely subjective. Today, I aim to share my personal experience at the college in a balanced manner, highlighting both the favourable and challenging aspects that have shaped my journey.

Before I begin to share my experience, I would like to address one important point: Engineering is not as easy as people think. There is a prevailing misconception that engineering, whether in computer or mechanical disciplines, is straightforward. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Both fields are challenging, requiring dedication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. If you are considering engineering solely because it appears to be the only available option, I urge you to reconsider. Likewise, if your motivation for pursuing engineering is solely to obtain a degree without genuine interest or commitment, you may waste valuable time and energy.

because same here!!

I opted for engineering without any prior knowledge or interest in the field. Like many others, I chose engineering because it seemed to be the popular choice. Now, as I find myself in my third year of the course, I am beginning to regret my decision.

so let me begin my college journey,

First-year:

As you all know, engineering typically spans four years, divided into two semesters each. Upon opting for engineering, I initially felt a sense of relief, as I believed I would finally be able to escape mathematics, my most dreaded subject. However, to my dismay, I find myself in my third year still grappling with mathematics, particularly for company placement preparation, known as aptitude tests.

Reflecting on my first year in college, I must admit I was below average academically due to struggles with physics, mathematics, and electrical engineering. These were the same topics that had haunted me during my school days, albeit in a more advanced form. Despite these challenges, I managed to pass my first year without any backlogs.

Beyond academics, my first year also marked a period of personal growth. As a shy and introverted individual, I had always struggled to connect with others, plagued by feelings of underconfidence. I held the misconception that people preferred to befriend those who were both good-looking and academically proficient, qualities I felt I lacked. However, I was fortunate to make several friends during this time, some of whom I am no longer in contact with. Nevertheless, they played a pivotal role in my journey, aiding my personal development, boosting my confidence, and imparting valuable life lessons. During my first year, I met two friends who helped me a lot in transitioning from being a below-average student to an above-average one.

Second year:

Moving towards my second year, I gained a lot of knowledge regarding my course, the people in my college, and my friends. However, the most important aspect that remained elusive was understanding the purpose of my course. Questions like “Why am I pursuing this?” and “What do I want to achieve?” continued to puzzle me, with the answers remaining unknown.

In the second year, our subjects were primarily related to computer science, but to my dismay, mathematics persisted. Although we delved into programming languages, my familiarity was limited to Python. Lacking interest in my course made it challenging for me to grasp coding in various languages, and I struggled particularly with the vital subject of Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA). Despite acquiring theoretical knowledge in my field, I still find myself unable to write a single line of code in DSA.

Outside of academics, I actively participated in college fests and the Smart India Hackathon (SIH), experiences that helped bolster my confidence. Moreover, during my second year, I encountered numerous changes in friendships, but amidst these shifts, I found my best friend. This individual not only contributed to my personal growth but also offered support in various facets of life unrelated to my field of study.

Third year:

Now in my third year, I find myself torn between pursuing a job or an MBA. However, when I compare myself to where I was last year, I realize that I have learned a great deal and made significant improvements in various areas. My coding skills, communication abilities, problem-solving capabilities, and time management have all seen notable enhancements. While I may not have reached the level of proficiency of my colleagues, I am no longer clueless about my field. I have discovered a keen interest in backend development and am actively pursuing it. Nonetheless, the lingering thought of “I should not have opted for engineering” often weighs me down and hampers my progress, contributing to my uncertainty between pursuing an MBA or entering the job market.

Beyond academic growth, I have also undergone a personal transformation. I have learned that letting go of things that no longer serve me is essential for finding happiness. Holding onto the past or forcing relationships can hinder personal growth.

From my three-year college experience, I’ve realized that it’s been quite a journey filled with ups and downs. Starting, I wasn’t sure about engineering, and I struggled with subjects like mathematics and physics. But despite the challenges, I managed to push through and progress academically. Along the way, I made some great friends who helped me gain confidence and come out of my shell.

While I still have doubts about my career path, I’ve learned a lot about myself during these years. I’ve improved my coding skills, communication abilities, and problem-solving skills. And even though I may not be as proficient as some of my peers, I’ve found my niche in backend development and I’m working hard to improve.

Despite the uncertainties, I’ve come to understand the importance of resilience and self-discovery. I’ve learned that it’s okay to let go of things that no longer serve me and that personal growth often comes from embracing change. As I move forward, I know that these experiences will continue to shape my decisions and guide me on my journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Based on my college experience, here’s the advice I would give to my younger self:

• Don’t be afraid to explore: It’s okay not to have everything figured out from the start. Take the time to explore different subjects, interests, and career paths. You never know what you might discover about yourself along the way.
• Embrace challenges: While it’s tempting to avoid difficult subjects or situations, facing challenges head-on is often where the most growth occurs. Don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone and tackle obstacles with determination and resilience.
• Surround yourself with supportive friends: Friends who believe in you and encourage your growth are invaluable. Seek out positive influences who will support you through the ups and downs of your college journey.
• Focus on personal growth: College isn’t just about academic achievements; it’s also a time for personal development. Take advantage of opportunities to learn new skills, build confidence, and discover what truly matters to you.
• Trust yourself: Trust your instincts and have confidence in your abilities. Believe that you are capable of overcoming challenges and achieving your goals, even when the path ahead seems uncertain.
• Stay open-minded: Be open to new experiences, perspectives, and opportunities. You never know where life may lead you, so approach each day with curiosity and an open heart.
• Don’t compare yourself to others: Everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. Remember that success looks different for everyone, and focus on your progress and growth.
• Take care of yourself: College can be demanding, both mentally and physically. Prioritize self-care and make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Your well-being is just as important as your academic success.
• Keep learning: Learning doesn’t stop when you leave the classroom. Stay curious and continue to seek out opportunities for growth and development, both professionally and personally.
• Trust the process: Trust that everything happens for a reason and that each experience, whether positive or challenging, is an opportunity for growth and learning. Stay resilient and keep moving forward, knowing that you are capable of achieving great things.

I acknowledge that my article may seem lengthy and perhaps dull, but I aim to prevent others from experiencing the challenges I faced during my college years. Rather than solely focusing on my college, which was the intended topic, I have chosen to delve into my own experiences, the obstacles I encountered, and how I overcame them.

Thankyou