From Third Preference to First Love: Hansraj College

I’ve always been intrigued by how plants work, which is why I chose Botany. Hansraj was my third preference after Hindu and Miranda, but I’m thrilled I got Hansraj. When I saw Hansraj on the first allocation list, I was overjoyed. I knew Hansraj as the college where the legendary Shahrukh Khan studied, and I found the name itself so lovely that I decided to freeze my choice without considering other colleges. Looking back, I’m glad I made that decision, as I’ve been blessed with great professors, lovely friends, and a vibrant campus atmosphere. Choosing Hansraj for Botany Honours has turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

After 10th grade, I knew I wanted to study biology and do something different from my family of engineers. I chose biology in my +2 to break that lineage (I'm glad that I did). My passion for understanding the human body, plants, and science drove my decision. Chemistry explains the bonds that make up our being, and physics allows us to function in daily life. Science is everywhere, and I wanted to explore the basic phenomena that govern our world.

I took the CUET-UG exam after completing my 12th, with the syllabus similar to the board exams. Preparing at Aakash Institute for NEET was intense, and though I didn’t clear NEET, I am now more than happy to pursue a B.Sc. Honours in Botany. My first preference was Hindu College because of its reputation, but I chose to freeze Hansraj in the first round, despite having the option to upgrade. In hindsight, I’m very happy with my choice. The faculty at Hansraj are more than just teachers, they are mentors who listen to us and support us in every possible way. I’ve also made amazing friends who stand by me no matter what.

You’ll often find me in the labs or attending classes in the Botany department, especially the genetics classes, which I absolutely love. Genetics isn’t just about memorization, it’s about understanding the intricate processes that make us who we are, inheriting genes from our parents. The four hours spent in the lab are incredibly enriching and I enjoy every moment.

Embracing Opportunities at Hansraj

I’m involved in several societies at Hansraj, each holding a special place in my heart. I’m the co-founder and General Secretary of Ahvana, a newly formed society that fosters spiritual growth among students, empowers artisans, and creates an inclusive space for all. Ahvana is more than just a society to me. It’s like my baby, something I’ve nurtured with a deep emotional connection. I’m committed to making Ahvana a significant presence on campus. I’m also the Joint Secretary of Botanique, my departmental society. Botanique feels like a family, with wonderful seniors and peers who have made my experience in Botany even more special. It was the first society I joined, so I have a unique bond with it.

Additionally, I serve as the Technical Head in the Gender Equality Cell, where I apply my love for graphic design, creating and editing reels, and using Canva. The motto of the Gender Equality Cell, which is to create an inclusive space for everyone, resonates deeply with me. College life at Hansraj has been a transformative journey for me. When I first entered, I was passionate but unsure how to direct that energy. Over the past two years, I’ve grown in ways I never imagined. The rigorous demands of my Botany Honours course have made me more resilient and disciplined. I’ve learned to manage my time effectively, balancing my studies with my passion for art and my involvement in extracurricular activities.

Building a Fulfilling College Life at Hansraj College

On a personal level, college has pushed me out of my comfort zone. Initially, I was more reserved, but being surrounded by a vibrant community encouraged me to engage more, share my thoughts, and build meaningful relationships. Founding Ahvana has given me the confidence to lead and the skills to manage people, something I never thought I could do on my own. Ahvana has become a part of my identity, and nurturing it has made me more empathetic and responsible. Overall, the college has made me more self-aware and confident. It has helped me discover my strengths and weaknesses, and most importantly, it has given me the courage to pursue my passions with clarity and purpose. The experiences and connections I’ve made at Hansraj have shaped me into a more well-rounded and determined person, ready to face whatever challenges come next.

I’ll always be grateful to Hansraj College for providing me with this incredible exposure and growth, and I look forward to continuing this journey with even more enthusiasm.

About the Author: My name is Anshika, and I’m currently pursuing my second year of B.Sc Botany Honours at Hansraj College, University of Delhi. From a young age, I’ve been fascinated by the human body, and plants, and my first love is art. I’m an avid reader who enjoys self-help and fiction books. In my free time, I love to doodle and draw. I love talking to people and sharing life experiences with them. 

Note: The views expressed in this article are solely the author’s own and do not reflect/represent those of Shiksha.