Ishmeet Singh Chadha

My Experience @ GNDEC

Day 1

My first day at GNDEC started with all the CSE and IT students assembling in the auditorium. The atmosphere was calm, and the stage was beautifully decorated. After waiting for about 30 minutes, the host invited the first speaker, Harpreet Mam. Her lecture made us feel like we were already a part of the GNDEC family.

Our Principal Sir then motivated us to make the best use of this platform. The NSET Director introduced us to the illustrious history of this institution, emphasizing its 68 years of shaping brilliant minds. He highlighted the first 36 years, which were dedicated to establishing the institute.

I learned an essential lesson: “Seize the opportunity; don’t wait for it to come to you.”

Next, the ADGP Officer shared invaluable insights about karma and the delayed rewards of good deeds. He spoke from experience for about an hour without any preparation, which was impressive. One piece of advice that stood out was: “Don’t be easily impressed; there’s always more to learn.”

Students who interacted and spoke up received chocolates. In the end, I missed out on chocolates but gained countless lessons, some the hard way. I resolved never to miss an opportunity again.

Day 2

A new opportunity arose thanks to Dr. Arvind Dhingra. He helped me shed my reserved behavior and start interacting with others. He asked for 11 boys and 11 girls to come up on stage. Determined not to miss any opportunity, I joined them. We played a team strategy game and introduced ourselves to our peers.

Then, Dr. H.S. Rai, the Controller of Examination, spoke. His perspective on examinations was fascinating, viewing them as opportunities to shine.

Unexpectedly, Dr. H.S. Rai sought 10 students to work with him – not for him. I felt it was divine intervention when I got selected to be part of this group, which eventually grew to 50 members. From the second day of college, we began learning the latest technologies, an opportunity rarely seen elsewhere.

Day 3 Universal Human Values, Canva Insights, and CodeGNE Leadership

Today marked the third day of my college journey, and it was packed with learning, interaction, and leadership.

Universal Human Values: A Path to Happiness

Our first lecture of the day was on Universal Human Values, a subject that delves into the essence of what it means to live a fulfilling and content life. We explored the concept of happiness and the state of contentment, discussing how these states of mind influence our everyday actions and decisions. The session was enlightening, providing a fresh perspective on how we can achieve true happiness. We also shared real-life scenarios, which made the discussion more relatable and impactful.

Canva: Unlocking Creative Potential

After a refreshing break, we engaged in a peer interaction session where our seniors introduced us to Canva. Canva is a powerful tool for creating visually appealing designs, and the seniors did an excellent job explaining its features and potential uses. From designing posters to creating social media graphics, Canva offers a versatile platform for expressing creativity. This session was particularly beneficial for those of us looking to enhance our presentation and design skills.

CodeGNE Leadership: Empowering the Team

The day concluded with a leadership activity as part of my role in CodeGNE. As a leader, I, along with other group leaders, hosted a doubt session for our group members. This session was aimed at addressing any questions or concerns the members had regarding their projects and tasks. It was a rewarding experience to assist my peers, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of CodeGNE. Helping others not only solidified my understanding of the topics but also fostered a sense of community and support within our group.

Reflections

Today’s experiences highlighted the importance of values, creativity, and leadership in our academic and personal growth. The lecture on Universal Human Values reminded me that happiness and contentment are pivotal in shaping our lives. The Canva session unlocked new creative avenues, and the doubt session reinforced the significance of teamwork and guidance.

As I continue my journey, I am excited to apply these insights to my studies and extracurricular activities. Each day brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and contribute, and I am eager to embrace them all.

We learned Excel and ChatGPT in an exciting, hands-on class workshop organized by the Causmic Club. Instead of making a normal Excel sheet and performing calculations manually, we tried to do it with commands. I enjoyed it so much that I gave a video feedback after the lecture.

Later, we had a math session. Initially, recalling all the formulas was challenging, but I eventually got the hang of it and enjoyed the class. Our lecturer, a young assistant professor, was interactive and understanding.

Some of us attended a meeting of the CodeGNE club, a group that had grown to 50 members on Telegram.

Day 4: GitHub, Poetic Inspiration, and Insights into Success

Day 4 of our induction program was a diverse and enriching experience, packed with valuable lessons and motivational insights.

Morning: GitHub Introduction

Our day started in the auditorium with a session led by Dr. Randhir Sir. He introduced us to GitHub, a vital tool for version control and collaboration. With his guidance, we set up our first repository, marking an important step in our journey as budding developers. This hands-on introduction was both practical and exciting, providing us with a foundational skill that will be crucial throughout our academic and professional careers.

Midday: Poetic Inspiration and Study Methods

The first speaker of the day, Dr. Pyare Lal, captivated us with famous poems and shared insights into traditional study methods. His poetic recitations provided a refreshing break and a different perspective on learning, reminding us of the beauty and depth that can be found in literature and the art of studying.

Afternoon: Exploring the Essence of Life

Mr. Sony Goyal, our second speaker, offered profound insights into the concept of life. He explained that LIFE stands for:

He also shared two powerful mantras for success:

These words of wisdom resonated deeply and provided a clear roadmap for pursuing our passions with dedication and enthusiasm.

Evening: Body Language and Engineering Societies

Mr. Pancham, our senior, was the third speaker of the day. He provided an engaging overview of body language and its importance in communication. Additionally, he introduced us to the Society of Automotive Engineers, highlighting the opportunities for involvement and growth within the field of automotive engineering.

Joining CodeGNE

To wrap up the day, I joined CodeGNE, our college’s tech club. Under the guidance of Dr. H.S. Rai, we will explore various technologies and enhance our technical skills. I’m excited about the learning and collaboration opportunities that CodeGNE will offer.

Reflections

Day 4 was a blend of technical learning, motivational talks, and practical advice. The introduction to GitHub and the motivational insights from our speakers set a positive tone for the days ahead. I’m looking forward to applying these lessons and diving deeper into both academic and extracurricular pursuits.

Stay tuned for more updates as our induction program continue

Day 5: Exploring the IT Department’s Vision and Mission

Today marked the fifth day of our college journey, beginning with an insightful and educational experience.

Introduction to the IT Department

We started the day by gathering outside the IT department. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as we anticipated the day’s activities. Our professors then guided us to the hardware lab, where we were introduced to the core values and goals of the IT department.

Understanding the Vision and Mission

In the hardware lab, our professors elaborated on the vision and mission of the IT department. The vision is particularly inspiring: to train students from villages and transform them into professionals. This commitment to empowering rural students underscores the department’s dedication to inclusive education and social upliftment.

The mission emphasized preparing us to meet the challenges of the rapidly evolving tech industry through a comprehensive curriculum and hands-on experiences.

Program-Based Outcomes

We also delved into the program-based outcomes, which outlined the skills and competencies we are expected to develop throughout our course. These outcomes include technical proficiency, problem-solving abilities, effective communication, teamwork, and a lifelong learning mindset. Understanding these outcomes gave us a clear roadmap of what we need to achieve and how the department will support us in this journey.

Exploring the IT Department Labs

After the enlightening session in the hardware lab, we had the opportunity to visit various other labs within the IT department. Each lab offered a glimpse into different facets of IT, from software development to network systems, and more. These visits were incredibly informative, allowing us to see the practical applications of our coursework and the resources available to us.

CodeGNE Meeting: Learning to Improvise

Later in the day, we attended a meeting of CodeGNE. This session was focused on the theme of improvisation. We learned various strategies and techniques to enhance our problem-solving skills and adaptability. The discussion provided valuable insights on how to think on our feet and make effective decisions in dynamic situations.

Reflections

Today’s experiences highlighted the importance of values, creativity, and adaptability in our academic and personal growth. The lecture on Universal Human Values reminded me that happiness and contentment are pivotal in shaping our lives. The Canva session unlocked new creative avenues, and the doubt session reinforced the significance of teamwork and guidance.

As I reflect on today’s experiences, I am motivated to contribute to and benefit from the department’s vision. I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, knowing that they are part of a well-defined path to success.

Day 6: Exploring Human Values, Canva, and Improvisation Skills

Day 6 of our induction program was packed with insightful lectures and practical activities, offering a blend of philosophical understanding and hands-on learning.

Morning: Universal Human Values (UHV)

Our day began with a lecture on Universal Human Values (UHV). The session delved into the coexistence of the Self and Body, highlighting their distinct needs:

We learned that the Self, as a Consciousness Entity, and the Body, as a Material Entity, have different types of needs. Misunderstanding these differences can lead to feelings of deprivation and exploitation. Imagination, driven by sensation, pre-conditioning, or natural acceptance, plays a crucial role in the Self. Harmony in the Self is achieved when imagination aligns with natural acceptance, and this harmony is reflected in the Body’s well-being through self-regulation.

Midday: Introduction to Canva

In the second lecture of the day, our seniors introduced us to Canva, a versatile design tool. We were guided through the basics of the platform and created our first template. This hands-on experience was both creative and educational, providing us with practical skills for designing visually appealing content.

Afternoon: CodeGNE Meeting on Improvisation

Later, we attended a CodeGNE meeting focused on improvisation. The session was centered on strategies and techniques to enhance problem-solving skills and adaptability. We explored various methods to think on our feet and make effective decisions in dynamic situations. The insights gained were valuable for improving our ability to handle unexpected challenges and make informed choices.

Technical Learnings and Challenges

Today’s journey in CodeGNE has been a treasure trove of technical knowledge. Here are some key learnings and challenges I encountered:

  1. Mastering GitHub: Operating GitHub properly has been a game-changer. From version control to collaborative coding, GitHub has streamlined our workflow and enhanced our productivity.

  2. Markdown Language: Learning Markdown has been incredibly useful. It has simplified the process of formatting text, creating documentation, and maintaining readability across various platforms.

  3. Pandoc Installation and Usage: One of the more challenging yet fulfilling experiences was installing and using Pandoc. Despite facing initial difficulties, I was able to overcome them through perseverance and self-learning.

  4. Helping Others: Being in a leadership position has taught me the importance of helping others complete their work. This not only fosters a collaborative environment but also enhances my understanding of the concepts as I explain them to others.

Upscaling Project Management Skills

Leadership is not just about guiding others but also about continuous self-improvement. My role in CodeGNE has allowed me to refine my project management skills. Coordinating tasks, setting deadlines, and ensuring that the team stays on track are essential aspects of effective leadership that I am continually learning and implementing.

Day 6 at CodeGNE has been transformative. It has provided me with a platform to hone my technical skills, embrace leadership responsibilities, and overcome challenges with determination. I am excited to continue this journey, leveraging my newfound skills to contribute effectively to my team and future projects.

With each step, I am becoming more confident in my abilities and more enthusiastic about the endless possibilities that lie ahead in the field of computer science and engineering.

Day 7 of the Induction Program : A Day of Inspiration and Learning

A Journey of Inspiration with Prof. Harpal Singh Pannu

Our seventh day of the induction program began in the auditorium with an inspiring session by Prof. Harpal Singh Pannu. He shared the story of his childhood, his struggles, and the intriguing tale behind his name. His journey was not just a narrative but a source of inspiration, reminding us of the resilience and determination required to overcome life’s challenges. Prof. Pannu also shared various Sakhis of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, which were both enlightening and thought-provoking, offering us valuable life lessons.

Understanding Relationships through Universal Human Values

Following Prof. Pannu’s session, we attended a lecture on Universal Human Values (UHV), which focused on understanding the essence of relationships. The key takeaway was that relationships are not merely interactions but connections between two selves. We learned about the nine feelings that form the foundation of any relationship: Trust, Respect, Affection, Care, Guidance, Reverence, Glory, Gratitude, and Complete Love. This session provided profound insights into how we perceive and nurture our relationships.

The Benefits of Joining the National Cadet Corps (NCC)

After the UHV session, we regrouped in the auditorium for a talk by Dr. Harwinder Singh, ANO of the NCC. He introduced us to the myriad benefits of joining the NCC, emphasizing the development of physical fitness, mental strength, personality enhancement, and leadership skills. The NCC not only prepares students for potential careers in the armed forces but also instills invaluable life skills such as discipline, teamwork, and communication. Notable benefits include the Sahara Scholarship for NCC cadets, government-covered expenses for uniforms and camps, and opportunities for selection in the armed forces through NDA.

Serving the Community with the National Service Scheme (NSS)

The day concluded with a session by Dr. Jasvir Singh Grewal, the coordinator of the NSS, who outlined the noble goals and activities of the NSS society at our college. The NSS aims to engage students in community service, focusing on afforestation, AIDS awareness, blood donation camps, environmental cleanliness, and disaster management. Participation in NSS offers numerous benefits, including personality development, preferential treatment in admissions and employment, and opportunities to engage in national integration camps and adventure programs. Through these activities, students develop leadership qualities, a democratic attitude, and a deep sense of involvement in nation-building.

Reflections and Takeaways

Day 7 of the induction program was a day of learning, inspiration, and personal growth. The stories shared, values discussed, and opportunities presented have given us much to reflect upon as we continue our journey through this induction program. Whether it’s through understanding the depth of relationships, embracing the discipline and skills of the NCC, or committing to community service with the NSS, we are encouraged to grow into well-rounded individuals.

Day 8 A Day of Insight and Learning: From Soft Skills to Pandoc

The Journey from Campus to Corporate with Er. Kanwardeep Grewal

Today, we were introduced to the critical journey from campus life to the corporate world by Er. Kanwardeep Grewal. She emphasized that while technical skills are essential, soft skills play an equally vital role. Without soft skills, even the best technical abilities may not be sufficient. Our seniors performed a role play on interviews, teaching us how to behave and maintain confidence in front of an interviewer. For our attentive listening, Er. Grewal rewarded me and my friend with chocolates.

What Are Soft Skills?

First Impressions:

Key Points:

Engaging Lecture with Dr. Jaswinder Singh

Following this, Dr. Jaswinder Singh, the in-charge of IAPT, delivered a lecture on induction, surface tension, and conduction. He made these complex topics easy and engaging, showing how everything connects to mathematics. Dr. Singh, awarded the Shiksha Ratan award, also shared a trick to remember the number of bones in the human body. His engaging style and deep knowledge made him an inspiring figure for many.

A Quiz and Senior Interaction

Later, IT sections A and B gathered in the seminar hall for a quiz organized by our teachers. Section B won the quiz. The day ended with a fun and informative interaction with our seniors, who shared valuable insights.

Workshop 3: A Deep Dive into Pandoc

Workshop Image

On Day 8 of our college journey, we held our third workshop to explore Pandoc, a versatile document conversion tool. Despite initial challenges like a lack of screen sharing converters and uncooperative WiFi, we pressed on with determination.

The Presentation

Karmandeep Kaur started with an introduction to Pandoc, explaining its significance in document conversion. Sharandeep Kaur then guided the audience through the installation process. Harleen Kaur, assisted by Kamaljeet Kaur, demonstrated converting a Markdown file to HTML and DOCX. Akshay discussed the differences between files processed with and without the standalone function, offering deeper insights into Pandoc’s features. Finally, I demonstrated the process of creating an ebook using Pandoc, making it accessible and straightforward for the audience.

Audience Engagement

The audience’s engagement was one of the workshop’s highlights. They were attentive, participated in hands-on activities, and asked insightful questions, making the session lively and interactive.

experience blog

Reflection

Despite the technical challenges, the workshop was a success, thanks to the teamwork and resilience of everyone involved. This experience underscored the importance of adaptability, preparation, and teamwork. It was a reminder that with determination and collaboration, we can overcome any obstacle.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead such a dedicated team and share knowledge with an enthusiastic audience. This workshop was not just about Pandoc; it was a lesson in learning, growth, and collective progress.

Day 9 of Induction: Inspirational Talks and Self-Reflection

Today marked the 9th day of our induction program at Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College, and it began with an inspiring session in the auditorium. We had the honor of being addressed by the retired principal Dr. Surinderbir Singh Sarna Ji of our college, who shared numerous stories of his former students, including Karamjeet Bajwa, the head of Google in seven countries, among others.He did his bachelor’s in electronics . His anecdotes were not only motivational but also offered valuable life lessons.

He encouraged us to relax and reflect on how we want to spend our lives, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and goal-setting. As part of this introspective exercise, he asked us to write down our details, followed by four good traits, four bad traits, four things we aim to learn from college, four expectations we have from college, and four areas we wish to improve upon.

Following this reflective session, our second guest, Dr. Pushpinder Singh, took the stage. He delved into fascinating topics related to memory—both good and bad aspects—and discussed various learning styles. His insights helped us understand how our memory works and how we can optimize our learning processes, which was incredibly enlightening and practical.

These sessions provided a perfect blend of inspiration and practical advice, leaving us with a deeper understanding of ourselves and how we can make the most of our college experience. The day was a significant step in our journey of self-improvement and growth.

Day 10: Peer Interaction and an Early Finish

Today was a lighter day in our induction program, but it was still filled with meaningful interactions and learning.

Morning: Peer Interaction

The day began with a peer interaction session where we discussed various aspects of college life. It was a great opportunity to connect with fellow students, share experiences, and learn from each other. These sessions are invaluable for building a sense of community and easing the transition into college life.

Midday: Math Class

Following the interaction session, we had a math class. The lesson continued to build on our foundational knowledge, and it was another step forward in preparing us for the academic challenges ahead. Our instructor provided clear explanations and plenty of examples, making the complex topics more approachable.

Early Finish

Interestingly, today we finished earlier than usual, giving us some extra time to relax and reflect on the week’s activities. It’s been a busy induction period, and this early finish was a welcome break, allowing us to recharge and prepare for the days ahead.

Reflections

Though shorter, today’s program was still productive and engaging. The peer interaction session highlighted the importance of community and support systems in college, while the math class reinforced the need for continuous learning and practice. I’m grateful for the chance to connect with my peers and excited to continue this journey of discovery and growth.

Stay tuned for more updates as our induction program continues!

Day 11: Motivation, Multifaceted Learning, and Opportunities with the Causmic Club

Today, our induction program took an inspiring turn with a series of motivational and informative sessions that left us eager to explore new opportunities.

Morning: Motivation from Initiators of Change

The day began with an uplifting lecture by Mr. Gauravdeep Singh, the Founder of the club Initiators of Change. His talk was not just motivational but also a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we choose to be proactive in our communities. Mr. Singh’s insights into leadership and social responsibility were particularly inspiring, and they resonated with many of us.

Briefing on Multifaceted Learning

Following the motivational talk, we had the privilege of hearing from Er. Lakhveer Singh, the Coordinator of the Center of Multifaceted Learning (CML). He provided a comprehensive overview of CML’s mission and the various resources available to us as students. The briefing was an eye-opener, showcasing the diverse learning opportunities we have access to, ranging from technical skills to personal development.

Afternoon: Insights from the Causmic Club

After a short break, we attended a session led by members of the Causmic club. This lecture introduced us to GNDEC’s Apex program, highlighting the benefits and opportunities it offers. The Causmic club members also shared information about upcoming events and the various avenues for engagement within the club. It was an exciting glimpse into the vibrant student life and the potential for growth through participation in club activities.

Reflections

Today was a day filled with inspiration and valuable information. The sessions underscored the importance of being actively involved in both academic and extracurricular activities. I’m looking forward to exploring the opportunities presented by the Causmic club and seeing how I can contribute to the Initiators of Change’s mission.

Stay tuned for more updates and insights from our induction program journey!

Day 12: Math, Tests, and Exploring 3D Design with OpenSCAD

Today marked another engaging day in our induction program, blending rigorous academic work with exciting new explorations in technology.

Morning: Deep Dive into Mathematics

The day kicked off with an intensive math lecture from 9 AM to 12:30 PM. The session was a deep dive into Maths, providing a solid foundation and a few challenging problems to tackle. It was a good mix of theory and practical applications, and I felt more confident in my understanding of the material.

Afternoon: The Math Test

After a brief lunch break, we returned for a math test from 1:30 PM to 3 PM. The test covered everything we’ve learned so far, and it was a great opportunity to assess our progress. While some questions were challenging, I felt well-prepared thanks to the comprehensive lectures and practice problems we’ve been working on.

Evening: CodeGNE Meeting and OpenSCAD Presentation

Post-test, I attended a meeting for CodeGNE, our college’s coding and tech club. Today’s session was particularly intriguing as students presented on OpenSCAD, an open-source software for 3D modeling. The presentation covered the basics of 3D design, from creating simple geometric shapes to more complex structures. I was fascinated by how code could translate into tangible designs, and it opened my eyes to the potential of 3D printing and modeling in various fields.

The highlight was a live demonstration where we saw how altering the code could change the design in real-time. It was an inspiring session, sparking ideas for future projects and collaborations. I’m eager to explore OpenSCAD further and perhaps even create some designs of my own.

Reflections

Today was a perfect blend of academia and hands-on learning. The math lecture and test were challenging yet rewarding, while the CodeGNE meeting provided a fresh perspective on the creative potential of coding. I’m looking forward to diving deeper into 3D design and seeing where this new interest takes me.

Stay tuned for more updates as our induction program continues!

The Final Day (13) of Induction: A Hackathon and Cultural Extravaganza

Today was the last and 13th day of our induction program at Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College. The day began with a thrilling hackathon named “Promising Hackers,” organized by Dr. H.S. Rai and Dr. Randhir Singh. I arrived a little early, and soon the competition started at 9:22 AM. We were given one hour to create a 3D logo of our college using any open-source software. Additionally, we had to report our progress to the judges every ten minutes.

After the time was up, all participants and judges reviewed the outputs and decided on the winners. I’m proud to share that I secured the 2nd position in the hackathon! It was an exciting and challenging experience that tested our creativity and technical skills.

Following the hackathon, we gathered in the auditorium for a cultural competition. The first event was a singing competition, which everyone enjoyed. It was followed by a dance competition, which was equally entertaining and well-received by the audience. There was a short break before the prize ceremony.

During the prize ceremony, Dr. Inderpal Singh, Director of Nankana Sahib Education Trust (NSET), shared valuable insights and words of encouragement. Principal Dr. Sehijpal Singh and the HOD of the IT department, Dr. K.S. Maan, also addressed the gathering and distributed prizes to all the winners.

The day was a perfect blend of competition, creativity, and celebration, marking a memorable end to our induction program. Reflecting on these past 13 days, I feel grateful for the experiences and the bonds formed with fellow students. The program has provided a solid foundation for our future endeavors at the college, and I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Highlights of Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College (GNDEC)

Key Takeaways

Full induction program compilation

Introduction

My induction journey at Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College (GNDEC) was a transformative experience, filled with learning, inspiration, and personal growth. From understanding the college’s rich history and values to engaging in hands-on technical sessions and leadership activities, this period was pivotal in shaping my outlook and approach toward my academic and professional life.

Day 1: A Warm Welcome

The induction began with a warm welcome in the beautifully decorated auditorium, where we were introduced to the illustrious history of GNDEC. The speeches by faculty and distinguished guests instilled a sense of belonging and motivation to make the most of the opportunities available.

Days 2-3: Team Building and Leadership

The following days were focused on team-building activities and leadership roles. Dr. H.S. Rai’s session was particularly impactful, as it introduced us to the concept of viewing examinations and challenges as opportunities to excel. Being selected for CodeGNE, our college’s tech club, marked the beginning of my journey into exploring advanced technologies.

Day 4: GitHub and Lifelong Learning

Learning GitHub and understanding the importance of version control and collaboration were key highlights of the fourth day. This practical session was complemented by motivational talks on the essence of life and success, emphasizing the importance of giving 100% in everything we do.

Day 5: Exploring the IT Department

The fifth day provided an in-depth look into the IT department’s vision and mission, reinforcing the college’s commitment to inclusive education and technical excellence. This day also introduced us to the practical applications of our studies through lab visits.

Days 6-7: Universal Human Values and Community Engagement

The induction program also focused on Universal Human Values, discussing the coexistence of the Self and Body and the foundational values in relationships. Sessions on NCC and NSS highlighted the benefits of physical fitness, mental discipline, and community service, encouraging us to participate actively in these programs.

Day 8: Soft Skills and Technical Insights

Er. Kanwardeep Grewal’s session on the importance of soft skills was enlightening, particularly the role of networking and first impressions in professional life. This was followed by engaging lectures on technical subjects, further enhancing our understanding and application of engineering principles.

Conclusion

The GNDEC induction program was a comprehensive blend of technical education, ethical grounding, and personal development. It provided a solid foundation for the academic journey ahead and equipped us with the necessary tools and mindset to excel both in college and beyond. As I reflect on this experience, I am grateful for the opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with the vibrant community at GNDEC. This induction has set the stage for a fulfilling and enriching college experience, one that I am eager to embrace fully.