My BAF Journey: Growing with Confidence at Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil College of Arts and Commerce

I opted for BCom in Accounting and Finance because I was seeking a degree that would not only match the high academic requirements of CA, but also provide a structured and secure alternative in case my career plans ever required re-routing. In that way, BAF provided me with both – a good academic foundation and a backup.

The Experience

The ride so far at Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil College of Arts and Commerce has not been easy. Managing college lectures, CA coaching, and self-study is no easy task. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and started doubting my ability to handle many things at once.

To add to that, BAF students have to undergo a six-month internship, which is a mandatory part of the course. Getting the right internship which balances my college calendar and CA responsibilities has been stressful. It is a pressure, yes, but one that also conditions us to learn early on how to handle work-related tasks.

Amidst all the confusion and doubt, I have had some moments that brought me back to why I opted for this course. One of the best moments was when I got 74.65% in my first year examinations.When my name was called during the appreciation ceremony and I was invited on stage to be recognised, I could not describe the sense of fulfilment I felt.

Although, I have not begun my internship yet. I have made it a goal to spend my spare time wisely. I took a number of skill-improvement courses to increase my job prospects and self-growth. Microsoft Excel was the first thing I learnt, which is a must in both accounting and dealing with data. 

I also worked with AI tools assisting in productivity and automation of tasks—something very much relevant in today's world of accounting. I also took a Personal Finance course at my college. These additional efforts have enabled me to gain a wider picture of Finance beyond the conventional curriculum and made me more confident in tackling real-life financial issues.

Academics

Academically, BAF has provided me with a firm foundation in Accounting and Finance, but what is more fulfilling is the exposure it provides to subjects outside the realm of core Commerce. I opted for Business Management as my minor, and that exposed me to fields such as strategic thinking, leadership, and decision-making processes. I have started to think not only like a Finance student, but like someone who knows the bigger picture of how organisations work.

This course has also introduced me to the distinct changes in my personality. I used to be shy and hesitant when speaking up in front of a group. But gradually, particularly through class presentations, group assignments, and even casual discussions with classmates, I have gained more confidence and eloquence. 

Learning and Helping Others on the Way

On a couple of occasions, I have had acquaintances and friends approach me for assistance with financial choices or uncertainty in their studies. Being able to assist them even in small ways was extremely rewarding for myself.

If I had to encapsulate my learning up to this point, I would say that the most significant lesson has been this: never underestimate the power of skill improvement. In a fast-changing world, it is not just what you know from textbooks that sets you apart, but how well you can put that knowledge into practice. And if you are studying Accounting or Finance, do not underestimate the value of theory.

Conclusion

To anyone thinking of pursuing the BAF course, I would give the following tip: work on skills outside of class, take advantage of every opportunity you can get to learn - whether through webinars, online courses, or extracurricular activities. Above everything, stay consistent. There may be days when it seems like nothing is going right, but if you continue to keep pushing, progress will eventually arrive. And when it does, it will be worth the effort.

My journey at this college has only just started, but I already have a sense of direction and pride at how far I have come.

About the author: Purva Jain is currently a second-year BAF student at Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil College of Arts and Commerce. She loves to learn new things about Commerce and Finance. Besides pursuing her undergraduate studies, she is also studying Chartered Accountancy (CA) course, which has always been one of her dreams. For her, learning has no limitations.

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