The Scholarship Programme.
Pain & Patience that lead to Prize.
From Standard 8, the award goes to Arya Joshi, from New India School. I request the student to proceed towards the stage.
The Beginning:
The story derives to the time when I was in Class 8. It was a usual busy morning at home. Me, hurrying for school thought of glancing the newspaper once. Just to catch the headlines. Little did I know, there was something which made me scream with excitement. Because, there stood the advertisement which I never thought, will transform my life together.
The advertisement of Hindustan Times Scholarship Programme.
Stage 1:
“Hindustan Times, in it’s maiden year in Pune, is imparting a scholarship to 50 students across the city. They are going to be awarded a certificate, a trophy and a cash prize of RS. 25,000/-”, I was bubbling with energy and my screams resonating my excitement as I read the advertisement. I made up my mind that I will surely attempt it. It was the commencement of one of the most memorable journeys of my life.
Stage 2:
In the form of application, Hindustan Times requested an essay to be presented on the topic, “ A World with Social Media”. So, the applicant (myself) got to work and drafted the essay. With the help of my parents and my sister, I successfully added finishing touches, add-ons and polished off my write-up. “I, Arya Joshi with utmost faith pray to God that my essay is selected and chosen as the winner. Wish me luck!” (Humourous, but equally honest)
That’s exactly the lines, I whispered to my inner self and slipped the application in the post-box. With God’s name on my lips and hope in my heart, I returned home. Thought about the essay for a week or so and then thought faded amidst the hectic schedule.
Stage 3:
I was a poor champ, when it was attempting the test of patience. But thankfully, my Mother did the honours of calming me down, whenever my impatience reached the peak. Surprisingly, I still remember the date. February 17, 2018. A day prior to the State-level scholarship exams, which I was attempting. That evening, My mother received a call from the HT office (Hindustan Times Office) stating that my essay was selected and I was called for interview on 19th February. I was overjoyed! At that time, it felt even boundless, because I had very conveniently forgotten about the HT scholarship, silly me! My confidence increased a thousand folds and it had started to dawn me, that I can win this scholarship.
Stage 4:
19th February 2018. I was sitting opposite to the Pune editor of HT. He, with his curious eyes was reading my application to the minutest detail. Often, he’d glance at me, probably to register my identity. However, that glare was enough to give me a scare! He asked me a few questions about it and I simply replied whatever struck me that time. In the end, when I raised from my chair, he advised me politely,
”Avoid using the word ‘Actually’ while speaking. You will create a much confident impression of yourself”
Just as I stated, “An editor to the minutest detail.”
Stage 5 ( The Finale finally!!):
On 22nd February 2018, around 1;30pm, our class accidently got a free lecture at school and were requested to spend time in the computer lab. Suddenly our peon entered the lab calling my name. As I got up, she said, “You’ve been called by the Prinicipal”. I froze. Thousands of thoughts running through my mind. Terrific range of questionnaires were building up. Without overthinking, I followed her to the cabin. As soon as we entered, our principal welcomed us with a warm smile and a sparkle in her eyes. She exclaimed, “Hearty Congratulations, Arya!” and let her hand out. After a warm handshake, she revealed that I had won the Hindustan Times Scholarship Programme and that the finale would be conducted on 27th February. I screamed in delight! This was unbelievable! I even cherish that moment now. The more I recall it, the more contended I am.
And finally, on 27th February 2018, in the presence of my family and my class teacher, I was awarded the scholarship by an eminent actor. None other than, Alok Rajwade!! (Ani from BhaDiPa)
Lessons learnt:
50,000 students.
150 students chosen for the interview.
50 students won the scholarship.
I was one of those 50.
It has been nearly 4 years to this achievement, however it’s an integral landmark. In it’s absence, I never would have been Arya Joshi,that I am today.Truly, the journey has been a rollercoaster. Starting from brainstorming for the essay, to the interview, everywhere it was a combined effort of hardwork, patience, dedication and willpower. One thing that strikes from this journey is that, whenever you wish to pursue anything in life, it can’t be achieved single-handedly by any of strengths. It should be a blend of all of them. Just as the presence of all ingredients is essential for a food item to be made, similarly for success, presence of all elements like devotion, passionate drive, hard-working ability, patience and willpower. Never give up on any of these!
Hence, just make the perfect blend and cherish your success!
I would love to know your Story of Success! Let me know in the comments below.
Until then,
