Overcoming Adversity in College: A Journey of Struggles and Triumphs

Introduction

I come from a middle-class family in India and attended a government institution until 4th grade. Despite scoring decently in my high school exams, my journey through college has been filled with challenges and setbacks. From personal relations and health issues to financial and academic struggles, these moments have taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and perseverance.

Road to College and Early Struggles

Initially, in high school, I aspired to score more than 80 in my 12th boards but ended up with a score of only 70. This setback left me uncertain about my future path. I didn’t pursue NEET or JEE Mains due to a lack of interest. A wise recommendation led me to apply for a diploma in Allied Health Science, which I successfully passed.

I got accepted into a government medical college in 2021. Despite initial success, issues cropped up during my internships. Uncertainty about my future career path and the impact of a toxic relationship with a senior disrupted my focus and productivity. NAVIC (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) and JEE Mains are important exams for medical and engineering students, and not pursuing them significantly affected my academic trajectory.

Academic and Personal Challenges

My first year in college was marked with personal and academic struggles. A messy breakup led to severe mental health issues, affecting my studies and physical health. The poor quality of accommodation food resulted in weight loss, and academic performance took a nosedive. Despite my best efforts, I failed in five subjects during my first semester, and additional struggles in subsequent semesters led to an academic probation.

The pressure of maintaining credit scores and meeting academic criteria was immense. Key moments, such as academic probation, not informing students, and managing such information, were crucial. Supporting documents, such as admission requirements for medical colleges, and medical internship procedures, play a significant role in these challenges.

Mental and Physical Health

During my second year, my mental and physical health continued to deteriorate, leading to further stress and strain. The loss of my mother to spondylolisthesis added to the existing anxieties and financial stress. Financial strain due to my father’s significant investment in my education and the inability to secure a job compounded my struggles.

Despite all these challenges, I managed to clear some subjects in supplementary exams. However, the academic probation status highlighted the need for better guidance and support systems in place. The lack of communication from the college administration was a major issue that contributed to my frustration and sense of isolation.

Seeking Help and Resolution

Encounters with department heads and faculty members offered some hope but were often deemed futile. For instance, a faculty member initially offered assistance, only to disappear when surveyed and consulted. Tensions and feelings of betrayal were common. Knowing that academic performance could be significantly affected by a few marks led to further frustration and a sense of anticipated failure.

Despite these setbacks, I continued to study diligently and manage my academic load while dealing with my family’s health concerns. The stress of not being able to secure an internship and achieving my career goals became overwhelming. The need for financial stability and the support from my family during these tough times is crucial.

Conclusion

My journey through college has been a tumultuous one, but it has helped me grow immensely. Learning to handle stress, balancing personal and academic responsibilities, and understanding the importance of mental health are key takeaways. My story is a testament to the resilience and determination required to overcome academic and personal challenges.

For anyone facing similar struggles, it is crucial to find support from family, friends, and mentors. The right guidance and a supportive environment can make a significant difference in overcoming adversities.