Back in 2019, when I started college, I was exhilarated at the thought of starting a new life away from home. Even though college has been a fulfilling experience to say the least, there have been sometimes where I wish I had a prior warning.
1. ALL THE WALKING
Everyone talks about how beautiful the dome is and how majestic the campus is but nobody ever talks about how HUGE it actually is. Walking from the hostel to the campus (god forbid if you have to use the subway. Big Fs) to thadi and back to the hostel was very exhausting for the first few weeks.
2. The politics.
If you’re from MUJ, at some point you’ve probably heard of the political drama that unfurls within people. For most people it acts as a sign of belongingness, but for some it turns out to be unnecessary hassle. You might end up getting associated with the “wrong” people. If you have a friend who’s in MUJ, I’d suggest sit them down and ask them about the politics, I’m sure you’ll get a hefty share of tea and an earful of stories.
3. The PDA.
For the most part I knew relationships in college were quite, err how do I say this, open but I wasn’t aware of the intensity of the openness. You will most definitely find a couple snuggled away in some corner, I’d suggest try not to wander around saras square after the lights are off. Give them some privacy, be respectful.
4. The events
In the pre-pandemic times, the hostel campus was almost always lit up in celebration of some event. Be it unveilings of new clubs, new chapters or new committee, be it futsal matches or open mics the hostel was always bustling with people and music. Oneiros and TedX are the highlights of the year and the campus truly becomes a whole other universe around that time.
5. Loneliness and friendships.
When I joined college making friends was very difficult for me, talking to people was exhausting and my social anxiety did not help. I wish I knew how lonely it would get and I’d find friends when I least expect them. Thadi quickly became a hotspot for everyone to bond and find people.
6. Lastly, I sincerely wished I knew how closely I would get attached to some people here. I’ve made friends who accept me for who I am, who are respectful and appreciative. I’ve found people who have sat down with me and rubbed my back one drunken throw up at a time. I’ve found people who’ve come running at the slightest of issues. On the contrary, I wish some people came with a little warning. But that’s alright, you’ll learn things.
Starting college is unnerving, it’s scary and it’s feels like a huge change. Mostly because, yeah, it is a huge change but you get used to it. The daily bustling of laundry, mess, classes and naps makes the struggle a little worthwhile.
If you’re coming to MUJ for the first time, Welcome I hope you find the peace and family I’ve found. Be confident and never be ashamed of who you are. All the best!!
Be respectful and be kind!!