Written by: Ahaana Raghav, Edited by: Aaliya Ashwin
Entering college as a fresher is an experience that blends excitement, fear, and anticipation, marking the transition from the familiar world of high school to the overwhelming territories of the university. Reflecting on this journey, being a fresher is an enduring spirit of curiosity and growth that persists throughout our lives and not just when we first enter college.
When I first stepped onto campus, I was overwhelmed by the sheer scale of everything. The buildings, the bustling crowds, and the seemingly endless opportunities were both exhilarating and intimidating. I felt like a small fish in a very large pond. I remember trying to navigate my way to the first class was the most difficult thing ever because I couldn’t find any of my classrooms. It was in those initial moments that I realized the importance of embracing the unknown with an open heart and mind.
The fresher in you is characterized by a hunger for new experiences and knowledge. It’s that part of you that signs up for clubs you’ve never heard of, joins study groups with strangers, and attends events that pique your interest. This spirit of exploration is invaluable. It encourages you to step out of your comfort zone, meet diverse groups of people, and broaden your horizons. In those moments of exploration, you learn not just about the world around you, but also about yourself.
College life is replete with challenges—academic pressures, social adjustments, and the quest for self-identity. There were times when I felt overwhelmed by assignments, disheartened by less-than-stellar grades, or lonely despite being surrounded by people. I learned that setbacks are not failures but opportunities for growth. These experiences teach you to persevere, to adapt, and to find solutions even in the face of adversity.
Another significant aspect of being a fresher is the forging of meaningful relationships. In the initial days, everyone is in the same boat, looking to make connections and find their place in this new environment. Some of the friendships formed during this time can become lifelong bonds. However, those giant friend groups everyone has, in the initial months rarely ever last. These relationships are built on shared experiences, late-night study sessions, and mutual support. Experiences like going to chai tapri at 12 am, roaming the whole campus till sunrise, pulling all-nighters in the global reading room- creating memories that will probably last a lifetime. They remind you that while the academic journey is important, the people you meet and the memories you create are equally valuable.
We never really lose that enduring spirit of a fresher that keeps us curious, resilient, and open to the myriad of possibilities that life offers. To the fresher in you, I say embrace this journey with all its highs and lows. Cherish the excitement of new beginnings, learn from the challenges, and treasure the relationships you build along the way. Remember that the spirit of being a fresher is not just about the start of college; it’s about maintaining a lifelong zest for learning and growth.
