#OhThePlaceYouWillGo: From “What if I can’t” to “I know I can”

As a high school student, I was somewhat intimidated by the idea of college academics. It always seemed like it would be very advanced, like what they usually show in the movies: big words, intense courses, and highly intellectual discourse, which I had no idea if I could keep up with. As someone who came from a very rigid academic structure, the multidisciplinary environment of Ashokan education felt like a dream – but not all dreams are easy to grasp.

The first few weeks at Ashoka were a bit uncertain. I found myself constantly wondering if I had taken the right class, if I was asking the right questions, if I was reading fast enough, and if everyone just magically knew more than I did. But with time, I realised that what they expected was not perfection, but just curiosity to learn and grow.

After that, it felt like I was invited to think rather than to perform. I started unlearning the mindset that taught me to value marks over meaning. I started reading for knowledge. I started writing because I had something to say. Thus, I found myself reading smarter, working harder, and learning more than ever before.

Going into my second year, I am no longer nervous about speaking out in class, trying new courses, and finally just enjoying the journey of learning.

A transition like this takes time; it is neither instant nor effortless. It requires patience, discomfort, and loads of unlearning- but everyone gets there, and so will you. Everyone is in the same boat, even if they don’t always show it. And the truth is, you will be okay. All you need to do is have trust in your ability to grow.

More than college, Ashoka has become a place where I found myself-  a place where I feel challenged, supported, and most importantly, excited to learn again. Now, I enjoy walking into a classroom, knowing that my thoughts, no matter how underdeveloped, will always be welcome.

Sagarika Gothi