Innovative and Contemporary Curriculum Made me Choose SOMM UPES, says Debarjo

I am Debarjo, a dynamic individual currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Journalism. With an unwavering passion for football and acting, I have cultivated a deep appreciation for public speaking and content creation. Driven by the desire to become an anchor and a media personality, I want to utilize my creativity and communication skills to captivate my viewers.

Q1. How did you choose your course of study in school (class XI-XII)? What made you choose your current college/course (undergrad/post-grad)?

I found my true passion for reading storybooks during my time in school. As I entered class XI-XII, I made a decisive choice to pursue the arts stream, as it offered me the opportunity to explore my literary interests further. I believed that by immersing myself in literature of various types, I could enhance my writing skills and broaden by understanding of storytelling.

Driven by my desire to create captivating content and fuelled by my love for public speaking, I took journalism as my subject in graduation. I recognized that journalism & mass communication would be the perfect platform for me to combine my passion for content creation,  interpersonal communication and networking skill. With a knack for thinking out of the box and a natural ability to generate innovative ideas, I was always eager to bring my creativity to the forefront.

Moreover, journalism appealed to me because it can allow me to explore various facets of the profession, such as anchoring. I  envisioned myself as a charismatic anchor, adept at engaging audiences and delivering information in a compelling manner. I aspired to become a voice that could captivate and inform people through my dynamic and persuasive presentation skills.

Another aspect of journalism that attracted me was the opportunity to engage in research and critical analysis. I was intrigued by the investigative nature of journalism, where I could dig deep into stories, uncover hidden truths, and shed light on important issues.

I selected media school UPES, Dehradun to pursue graduation specifically for two factors: first, the most innovative and contemporary syllabus, and second, the learned faculties, where most of them are big names in the field of journalism. Also, the excellent placement record of the university was an added attraction for me.

Q2. How you cracked admission in your current college? What all entrance test(s) did you give? Any coaching classes that you took for preparation? Any other colleges that you were trying out for?

I appeared in an online interview for getting admission in the Journalism & Mass Communication course in UPES, Dehradun. I consulted many GK books and Manorama year book for my preparation for online entrance for the Journalism course, after graduation. In addition to this, I regularly followed The Hindu newspaper. I also appeared for Delhi University entrance for UG courses but did not get my desired college. I was self-reliant for my preparation of entrance test  and did not enroll for any coaching class.

Q3. How you spend your time at college? Which classes do you like to attend? Which extra-curricular activities are you a part of in college? If given a chance, what else would you want to do? How has your college experience changed you as a person?

During my time in college, I engaged in a variety of activities that enriched my academic and personal experience. Attending classes and working on project assignments formed the core of my academic routine, allowing me to expand my knowledge and develop practical skills. However, college life wasn't just about academics; I also cherished the companionship of my friends, as we shared countless moments of laughter and support. Moreover, I explored my creative side by delving into video production, crafting compelling content and documenting memorable moments. Additionally, I actively participated in extracurricular activities, assuming the role of an anchor for university cultural festivals, engaging in Model United Nations competitions, and showcasing my acting skills in skits. Among my diverse interests, football held a special place, as I enthusiastically played the game that brought me joy and camaraderie.

Throughout my college journey, I discovered my passion for electronic media and content creation. Immersed in the world of YouTube, I found immense fulfilment in producing videos and writing blogs. My aspirations extend beyond personal expression; given the opportunity, I yearn to channel my creativity into the professional realm of electronic media. Whether it involves becoming a presenter, crafting scripts, directing events, or conducting research for videos, I am eager to explore the multifaceted dimensions of this field.

The exceptional ambience of my university, coupled with its dedicated faculty members and innovative teaching methodologies, played a pivotal role in transforming me as an individual. The environment fostered critical thinking skills, enabling me to analyze complex issues and formulate informed opinions. Furthermore, the rich library resources nurtured my thirst for knowledge and provided ample opportunities for self-study and exploration. In this nurturing ecosystem, I realized the true potential of creativity and developed a passion for utilizing media as a powerful tool for societal impact. This transformative experience has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility as a future media professional, motivating me to contribute meaningfully to society through my work.

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