My guest lecture at Hyderabad

With the teacher: Abhay Mathur sir

A couple of weeks back, I got a call from my uncle, asking me whether I would like to give a small talk about my experiences, at my cousins' school. I was hesitant at first but said yes anyways, while wondering how such an opportunity came my way. One of the teachers at my cousins' school, Mr. Abhay Mathur, got in touch with me; he wanted me to share my experiences and a few tips with the older students of their school. Their school is relatively new and they do not have 12th graders yet, and I was to take the position as their senior during the talk.

After everything was decided, I left for Hyderabad (where the school is located) on 14th February by an overnight bus, ALL ALONE, for the first time. The early-on experience in the bus wasn't great though, considering I vomited having boarded the bus with an upset stomach. In addition, the bus got diverted due to an accident. But, in the end I was glad that I was able to travel all alone to another city. My uncle booked me a cab from my bus drop location to his home and I reached home safely.

Me speaking on the first day

The first lecture (with the 9th and 10th graders) was on that day, in the afternoon. I got ready, wore my formal-wear, and left for the school with my aunt (who is also a teacher at the school. I was welcomed very well, and escorted to the class, as though I was a VIP. I was a bit nervous, it being my first time speaking to a fairly large crowd (about 40-50 students). I spoke about my experiences throughout my childhood, my recent years, and my accomplishments. Later, I also gave some recommendations and tips. I did not get a really big response from the students as they were hesitant to interact with an outsider. But, I did feel satisfied that I could convey what I wanted to, at least to some extent. Later, I had lunch in the school canteen along with some students, where I was asked a few questions. I definitely enjoyed interacting with them, especially considering I am not good with strangers.

With the 8th graders

The rest of the evening was just fun with my cousins (no interruption from my parents as they weren't present there :) ). The next day, I had another session at the school, this time with the 8th graders. I wasn't as nervous as on the previous day, and my talk was crisper. I was given a painting as a gift at the end of the session! On the whole, it was a pleasant and different experience being a guest speaker.

The remaining of this day and the next day, I spent in another aunt's house. It was time to go back on the 17th of February. This time, the bus journey was worse! There was a four hour traffic jam due to an upturned bus on the way! I was supposed to reach home at 8am but ended up reaching at 12pm on 18th! I probably would have gone insane if the journey was a tad bit longer. This wrapped up a quick break in my regular routine, along with a completely different experience.

-Suhas

22/02/2017