(Re)Turning To Ashoka: Tracing a Transformative Journey

When I first came across Ashoka, I was driven to apply to the graduate English programme because of its holistic admissions process. As I stressed about multiple-choice entrance exams for a qualitative discipline like literature, Ashoka’s admissions process was a breath of fresh air. I felt seen even in the admissions process: having a space to express myself, and share my thoughts and responses to books. Once I received an Offer of Admission, there was no doubt that I would attend the first M.A. English cohort at Ashoka University.

The first semester was the most challenging, shifting to a very academically rigorous and research-oriented programme. The availability of support systems at every stage like teaching assistants, and office hours with professors are a source of consistent guidance. Ashoka challenged me and taught me to unlearn. Our inquiries in and outside of class informed a new manner of critically analysing and engaging with the world. Ashoka’s collaborative nature also benefited me in learning about academic and creative opportunities through my peers. I was fortunate to be selected for the Summer Institute, at the International Writing Programme, hosted by the University of Iowa where I met a diverse international community of writers and poets.

As I was so moved by my time at Ashoka, I naturally wished the same for more people. When future applicants reached out, I would chalk out time to share my experiences and resolve any of their queries. My only motive was to share with more people the transformative force of this journey. When I joined the Office of Admissions, I came full circle and received a better platform to fuel this motivation. I am mindful of the impact of every step of the process and am considerate of every student and family’s anxieties in this nerve-wracking process. My journey at Ashoka University as a student helped me connect with our applicants and humbled me in understanding their journey and needs at the application stage.

At the Office of Admissions, I am always learning and continue to challenge myself. I am driven by a desire to have better conversations with every candidate, and to simultaneously approach the space as a catalyst to learning. Ashoka’s development as an institution also excites me, as there’s ample room to grow for every individual associated with it when we work in cohesion to make it the most sought-after community of thinkers, scholars, and dreamers.