JOIN USThe long vacation has just ended and degree colleges across the City have opened their doors to a fresh batch of students.
Last week, St Joseph’s College of Arts and Science opened for the first-year students.
The old stone building of the college was abuzz with the footsteps of students and as they assembled under the big banyan tree in the college quadrangle, one could see the bright faces bearing joy, nervousness and excitement — making it evident that it was their first day in college.
Upholding tradition, the principal of the college, Fr Daniel Fernandes, welcomed the students by telling them how the banyan tree has been a symbol of the college for many years.
“One should learn to be deeply rooted no matter what comes our way, just like the tree that stands tall before us,” he adds.
A new academic year means a whole lot of things, especially for freshers who come with big dreams in their eyes and hope to start afresh. The orientation programme that was spread over two days helped them get familiar with the place and people.
It also helped many to get over their initial jitters. Auxiliun, a first-year science student, says, “There is a bit of excitement and nervousness but I am sure that as the day proceeds, things will be very different.”
Making friends was on top of the agenda for many. While some of them teamed up with their classmates from their previous institutions, others went ahead and made new ones.
What worried Kiran, a first-year student, was ragging.
With a nervous smile, she says, “I am completely new here and I am very confused as to how the first day would go. But I hope there is no ragging.”
Getting into a college like St Joseph’s is a matter of pride for any student. And from the very first day itself, the freshers know what it means to be a ‘Josephite’.
Priyanka, who had cousins complete their graduation from this college, says that they inspired her to join the place.
“The discipline and the reputation that the place holds are something that made me want to be a Josephite,” adds Priyanka.
And many are raring to make their contribution as well. “I have heard the college has always encouraged students, even in their extracurricular activities.
I am looking forward to making my contribution to many of the sporting events,” says Malvika, a first-year arts student.
As the day progressed, one could see the nervousness slowly vanish from their faces and a sense of familiarity dawn upon them. And as one their teachers rightly summed up at the inauguration, “Today will be the first day of the rest of your lives.”