I guess it was the age of innocence, probably the age of stupidity as well when I first entered college back in India. Being under the supervision of mom till my high school, college was the one place where I could let my thoughts, aspirations and imagination run free. This was what probably landed me in trouble in what were arguably the most shocking events in the college's history. Enquiries, suspensions, dismissals etc., I faced them all. Almost nothing seemed to stop me from doing what I wanted and enjoying to the maximum. Puppy love was of course a part of college life, but strangely I was unaffected by it. Part of it is solely due to the fact that I was raised in an atmosphere that never made my mind venture into these thoughts. That doesn't mean however that I was immune to crushes and infatuations! I fell in quickly as soon as I got out of another out of one. Seems funny when I think of those days. I had an awesome set of friends and classmates (the guys I mean...don't even ask about the ladies...they were a nightmare!). Bunking classes, coming up with excuses, conjuring up new techniques to pass every single exam without even studying but not cheating at the same time! Yeah, college life was fun! In every aspect of my life, I often was scolded, lambasted and severely criticized for often being kiddish and immature in all my endeavors. However, now I realize thats what makes me Kamal.
Academics was a breeze, I was able to sail through the courses despite constant blackmailing and threats from faculty back then. Nothing in life was serious for me. After all, why should I be worried when I was absolutely sure I would get into a campus placement, earn good money and lead a life of comfort? The turning point came when my dear friend and the person I probably was closest to in life passed away tragically. Gnanasivam, one of my best supporters and criticizers in every move I made was one whom I could share the world with. A happy go lucky chap who constantly reminded me that there is much more to life in than to settle with a job after a bachelors degree. Without his influence, I probably would have never ignited the spark within me to apply and have visions of pursuing graduate studies in USA.
The final year of college was absolutely critical to me. I realized I had to put my kiddish nature to rest and concentrate on either making or breaking my future. A critical time in life, this juncture of my journey had Lakshmi as my constant admirer, supporter and worst criticizer. A friendship which blossomed during the end of my 3rd year in college turned into a sibling relationship that served as a mast for me to sail troubled waters. My parents are folks that I cant find words to praise. Dad and Mom are people who believed in my ability to the fullest and supported me in all my decisions. Till date there is not ONE thing they have refused me!
The rest was a mechanical set up of guidelines and visa approval to bring me to a country with unlimited opportunities and unlimited potential. However, that is another story for another day!
