A journey into unknown: A message to the students for the first day at the college

Dear Girls,

The Delhi administration and Delhi University have announced the reopening of colleges for in-person classes after a prolonged closure due to the pandemic. Many of you have already begun traveling back, leaving behind the familiarity of home and stepping into the unknown once again.

I imagine you’re experiencing a surge of mixed emotions—the sadness of parting from family and friends, the anxiety of stepping out of your comfort zone, the excitement of new beginnings, and the determination to turn your dreams into reality. Your minds may be brimming with questions: What will this journey hold? How will the new people and teachers be? Will I fit in? What challenges lie ahead?

This moment takes me back to when I left home twelve years ago, carrying similar uncertainties. I came from a place with limited exposure to the world, but I had big dreams—dreams of doing something different, something meaningful. Over the years, I’ve realized that life is not defined by a single milestone or destination; rather, it is a continuous journey of growth, self-discovery, and transformation.

Stepping out into the world was more overwhelming than I had imagined. Challenges came in different shades—some expected, others unforeseen. I stumbled, made mistakes, faced setbacks, and at times, doubted myself. But I never gave up. I learned the importance of self-reflection, of understanding my environment, and of cultivating resilience. Each experience, whether joyful or painful, shaped me—offering lessons in humility, patience, and strength.

Through this journey, I discovered that growth comes from introspection—from strengthening virtues and correcting flaws, from learning and unlearning. Every struggle carves wisdom, every fall builds resilience, and every lesson refines character. And now, as you embark on your own path, I want to share some thoughts that might bring you assurance:

Doubting your actions/thoughts is not the sign of weakness. Taking a pause when needed, and being reflective is good.

Be kind and polite, but firm and resolute while being ethical.

It's good to keep remembering your roots, but remaining open to learning, evolving, and embracing new ideas is also necessary.

Listen more than you speak, but when you speak, let it be with wisdom.

Do not let gossip, hearsay, or divisive talk influence your judgment.

Accept criticism with humility, but do not let it break you. Learn, improve, and move forward.

Do not let praise inflate your ego, nor let setbacks shake your confidence. 

Stay grounded, no matter where life takes you.

If you carry these principles within you, there is little to fear and much to gain. You may fall, but you will rise again. You will stand strong even in the toughest of circumstances, emerging wiser and stronger each time.

This journey you are about to take is not just about academics or careers; it is about preparing for life. One day, we too will become mothers, teachers, mentors, and decision-makers—guiding those who come after us. And to do that, we must first embrace the unknown, walk the difficult paths, and build ourselves into the people we are meant to be.

Take this journey with courage, with curiosity, and with the unwavering belief that you are capable of becoming all that you aspire to be.

With care,

Your Teacher