02/01/2025
It was supposed to be the final stretch of my college journey—a time to focus on wrapping up my last semester and preparing for the viva related to my internship. Like every year, our university was gearing up for its annual expo, a one-day program where students showcase their projects. In contrast, another university was organizing a grand three-day event. The difference in scale wasn’t lost on me, but at this point, I just wanted to complete my requirements and move on.
That’s when the calls started.
At first, it was a faculty member casually suggesting that I register for the expo. I politely refused, explaining that I had other priorities and didn’t feel it was necessary. But then the tone changed. What began as a simple request turned into a pressure campaign.
“If you don’t come and register for the event, we will deduct marks from your final semester,” they said.
I was stunned. This wasn’t just a suggestion anymore—it was a threat.
As if that wasn’t enough, they went further, warning that they could give negative ratings to my profile. It felt manipulative, almost like blackmail. The very people who were supposed to guide and support us were now holding our grades and reputations hostage for something as trivial as event participation.
I couldn’t help but feel frustrated and helpless. Wasn’t this supposed to be my choice? My work, my internship, my viva—weren’t they enough to prove my dedication? Why was I being forced into something I didn’t want to do, under the guise of “university pride”?
It wasn’t just about the event anymore; it was about principles. The idea that my academic standing could be jeopardized for refusing to participate in something optional felt deeply unfair. And the worst part? I wasn’t alone. Many of my peers were facing the same pressure, caught between their personal priorities and the institution’s demands.
This experience left a sour taste in my mouth. It made me question the values of an educational system that prioritizes optics over genuine student growth and well-being. Instead of fostering creativity and encouraging voluntary participation, they chose coercion—a method that only breeds resentment.
As I navigate through this ordeal, one thing has become clear: we need to stand up for ourselves, even in the face of such unfair tactics. Because if we don’t, the cycle will only continue, and future students will face the same frustration and disappointment.
Here’s to hoping for a future where education systems value student autonomy and respect our decisions—because learning should be about growth, not forced compliance.
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