Fare Thee Well...!

It's almost the ending of the academic year for students everywhere. And reminiscing about my time spent in college, I thought I'd share my old farewell speech, as the first post of 2016... after my sabbatical from blogging...

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Earlier today, I was asked to speak on behalf of the seniors. I don't know why I was chosen; I can think of other people who are more suitable for the task. However, since I was asked, nay, begged, a second time, I shall try not to disappoint.

Being a foreign student, it has been the most interesting three years of college. As I look back on my first year, it was a new country, new environment and a new culture. I've had to learn to adapt and it was fun to experience different backgrounds and ethnicities. College is a melting pot of diversity, and I was glad that I wasn't the only proverbial 'fish out of water'. The people here are very relatable, albeit eccentric on many levels. College is usually seen as a center of learning and austerity.... but that is not the case! Folks here are inherently laid back and fun loving, even in stiff situations.

Now in the final days of college, I've learned a few things:

* We have become masters in the fine art of Procrastination. We have this twisted fascination of pushing deadlines for assignments, reports and projects (which is currently in motion).

* We are never prepared for exams. When conversing before tests, we always remark, "Chill maadi!". Our response to pop quiz, "Saar, gothilla!" (Sir, I don't know!)

* We love to share - food during lunch, clothes when our own haven't been washed, or assignments we suddenly realize are due in a few hours.

* Our motto for survival? COPY - PASTE - PRINT

Three years were indeed interesting. And although we can't wait to leave, part of it will always remain with us.

To our teachers, thank you for imparting your knowledge to us, for pushing us to do better, for helping us finish the race, even though you weren't obligated to go out of your way to do so. Thank you for being more than just lecturers. You were our confidants, attentive ears to our queries and our many many complaints. Even though we don't seem to show it, we do appreciate what you've done for us and you will always be remembered.

To my fellow batch-mates, thank you for all the crazy stunts you've pulled and doing everything possible to make classroom sessions interesting, from calling names, punching each other to continuously dropping stuff on the floor to ease the monotony of a boring lecture. If there's anything I've learned from you guys, it is to always find the joy even in the most humdrum of days. All the best for the future that lies ahead of you!

To my juniors, I bid you farewell and my very best of wishes for the remainder of your stay in college. No matter what you hear people say, enjoy these moments. Take everything in your stride because these are the days you'll never get back.

Thank you and God bless us all!