Why Journalism?

As a girl pursuing Journalism, I often get questioned, "Why Journalism?" For those who don't know, I come from a family full of doctors. Like seriously! My siblings, parents, and my whole family are in either the Science or Engineering field. Then why not me?

Childhood

Well....While growing up, I saw my parents' struggles closely. It is not only about the gloomy picture and lifestyle of a doctor but also their struggle. Struggle to balance personal and professional life. Struggle to give time to their own family and fulfilling their expectations... Everything. 

I had always been disappointed regarding this. I just wanted some more time to spend with my family. I wanted to enjoy little moments with them. No doubt they tried their best. Every single time. Don't know how? But they did. But still, as a kid, I always craved more. As I grew up, thankfully I was aware of the fact that it's not my parents 'fault' but their 'duty'. I never complained about it even if I was disappointed. But then, I started blaming the profession. No doubt I always had a huge respect for doctors and still have, in fact, more! I started growing the notion against it. I decided that I would become anything other than a doctor.

The fun fact is I love Science a lot, especially medicine. In addition, I was good at it academically too. So practically looking, I should have become a doctor. Still, I am so much into the medico conversations in our family. I still have the curiosity to understand the human body and its mechanism. But even now if someone asks me about being a doctor. It is clearly a big no. 

Lockdown

For me, lockdown has been a game-changer in many ways. Not only in my personal life but professionally too. I was in 11th Standard when the lockdown happened. I was confused about what exactly to do in future. I was aware of what I didn’t want to do. There were many fields I was interested in, but as a profession' what is best for me, was the biggest question. 

I searched for various courses from different fields but there were very few, I shortlisted. I always knew that I should not run behind its attractiveness, but practically whether it will motivate me to work for my profession every single day.

This was the time when everyone was giving tribute to doctors, policemen, scientists, and everyone who had worked so hard for the citizens of the country in some or the other way. Obviously, they all deserve it. In fact, much more than this. But, one thing I noticed was, that no one was appreciating the 'Journalists'. The ones who were reporting each and every thing the the masses. Even they were risking their lives. But very few stories came out of their own. 

I was so curious about all this and therefore started a bit of research on Journalists. I was so fascinated by their work, their hard work, dedication and specially their courage. I studied many cases of Journalists, their stories, the work behind that one good story, everything. 

Then one fine day, I crashed at my family friend’s house, where they introduced me to a 'Media and Communication' degree from Fergusson College. I searched more about this course. Finally enrolled in the course and then my journey started............