What makes the first day at college so remarkable? I think it's the feeling of pride that a parent experiences, the thrill of anticipation that the fresher goes through, the pre- admission fever that grips all in the campus and culminates so satisfyingly on the first day - these are the most memorable things happening on the first day at college. 

Emotions run high...parents are anxious to rush through the admission at one go, no one wants to wait and it's almost as if parents are ready to throw the gauntlet down and retreat. This year however, the admission was at its smoothest. Daring to break traditions, the Principal asked the departments to take over the certificate verification, the fees to be paid in the office and the hostel admission fees to be made in the D1 hall. Outside the principal's chamber, a line of chair against the wall, made the wait a lot more comfortable than having to lean against walls in serpentine queues. 

The evening meet was well attended, since the admissions were over by 4.30 p.m and the meeting lasted just an hour and a half. Speeches by the HODs were possessed of the spirit of brevity and that made listening to talks a pleasure. 

What  I love most about the day, is that it's not just a day for the youngster...it's one for the whole family. There were beaming grandparents, proud parents and well wishers, grim faced parents worried about the fees, scholarships that can take their burden off their shoulders, happy youngsters enjoying the sights, sounds and experiences on their first day out...

Aaahh...my belief and trust in the system of government colleges that aids and encourages literacy and education for even those from the lowest rungs of society, if only they have the will to achieve, is strengthened as in every year.