A Journey Rekindled After Two Decades

 

A Presentation with Purpose

What began as a long and steady professional journey eventually started to feel less meaningful. It was then that pursuing a PhD brought a renewed sense of curiosity, purpose, and intellectual challenge into my life.

On a quiet morning at CHRIST University, I found myself once again behind a podium—not only as a student this time, but as a speaker, mentor, and researcher. Presenting on VM scheduling policies in a research forum, I stood before a group of curious minds and experienced faculty, sharing insights shaped over years of exploration and persistence.

An Unexpected Reunion
But the day held more than just academic exchanges. Amid the bustle of post-session chats and handshakes, a familiar face emerged—my MCA classmate from two decades ago. We greeted each other with the warmth only time can deepen. What began as a catch-up soon became a powerful moment of realization: she was not only a friend from the past but my PhD guide for the past seven years.

A Community of Scholars
We posed for group photos with our peers, fellow presenters, and organizers—some in person, while others joined virtually. Each face in the frame told a story of dedication and academic camaraderie. These were not just colleagues but co-travelers on the same challenging yet rewarding path of knowledge creation.

Capturing Bonds

As we stood together once more, smiling under the soft lights of the seminar hall, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the chance to collaborate, for the encouragement shared through every milestone, and for the constant reminder that the best journeys are walked together.

A Milestone Preserved
Later, in a quieter corner of campus, we held the symbol of years of research—a bound PhD thesis. Surrounded by mentors and teammates, this moment celebrated more than just an academic milestone; it acknowledged resilience, teamwork, and the unbreakable bond between a student and her guide.

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Gratitude, Guidance, and Growth
What began as a university friendship has grown into a mentoring relationship that continues to inspire me every day. Seven years into this PhD journey, with countless drafts, presentations, and reflections behind us, I remain deeply thankful for a friend who became my guide—and for a guide who continues to believe in me. The road ahead looks bright, especially when walked with such strong support and shared purpose.