Memorable Beginnings

 My college life began online amidst the global fight against COVID-19. My batch is often referred to as the "COVID batch" because of this. My entire first year was conducted online—no Freshers' Day, no ragging, nothing. It felt unfortunate, but I accepted it. As a History student, I expected my lectures to be delivered by older, perhaps less engaging, professors. To my surprise, both of my major subjects were taught by two young and charismatic professors, Jeevith and Hareesh. These "professor bros," as we called them, had studied together, graduated together, and even began their teaching careers together, handling the first-year students as a dynamic duo. Their energy was refreshing, and I was thrilled to have professors with whom we had a good understanding, given the minimal age difference.

However, online classes were monotonous. Most students, myself included, only showed up for attendance. The entire first year felt like a lost cause due to the pandemic.

When it was time for document submission, I had to visit the college in person. My father insisted that I travel to Chennai alone, wanting me to handle everything independently. On February 22, 2021, I arrived in Chennai for the document submission, coincidentally on my birthday. It was a day full of new experiences. The last time I had been to Chennai was in third grade, so the city was unfamiliar to me. My knowledge of Tamil was rudimentary at best, limited to a few dialogues from Vijay movies.

As soon as I stepped out of the station, I was swarmed by auto drivers. Their persistent attempts to get my attention were overwhelming. I finally got into an auto and asked the driver to take me to Loyola College. However, he spoke to me in advanced Tamil, which I could hardly understand. Realizing I wasn't a native speaker, he seized the opportunity. Upon reaching the college, he demanded 400 rupees. In my innocence, I didn't question the fare and handed him the money. I later regretted it deeply when I learned that there was a local train from Chennai Central to Nungambakkam that cost only 5 rupees. To this day, I cringe when I think about that incident.

The auto driver even asked if I was returning the same day, offering to drive me back and no doubt charge another 400 rupees. Fortunately, I was saved by Jeevith sir.

When I arrived at the college, I was struck by the beauty of the main building and the breathtaking cathedral. I went to the commerce building to submit my documents and waited to meet my professors. I first met Naresh sir and Muthu Raman sir and had a brief conversation with them. I inquired about Jeevith sir, and they informed me that he would arrive shortly. Soon enough, I saw Jeevith sir entering the main building. Despite looking quite young, he recognized me instantly. We chatted for a while, and he asked if I had eaten lunch. When I said no, he insisted on taking me to the canteen, where he treated me to chicken biryani—a completely unexpected birthday treat. I never mentioned it was my birthday, yet he treated me like a younger brother.

After lunch, I told him I needed to catch my train at 3:30 PM. Meanwhile, the auto driver kept calling me, likely hoping to overcharge me again. I decided to ignore him and take another auto. Jeevith sir kindly offered to book an auto for me online, which only cost 100 rupees. It was then that I fully realized I had been cheated earlier.

The first experience is always challenging, often bitter. But after making that initial mistake, you learn to avoid repeating it. Despite the challenges, my first visit to the college was a memorable experience and one of the best birthday gifts I could have received.