Navigating the Challenges of College: A Personal Account of Ragging and Its Impact

Hi,

My Experience with Ragging in College

Hi Saurabh Raj,

I have indeed faced ragging, and it was a rather odd experience for me. Joining any college can be daunting, especially when it comes to dealing with new environments and social dynamics. My journey at GLA University Mathura, a renowned institution in Uttar Pradesh, India, was no exception. There, I was involved with an NGO that provided free education to children from neighboring villages. We were gearing up for a special event, "Children’s Day," where I was tasked with anchoring the event.

Encountering Ragging During My First Month

One day, I was heading to the final rehearsal for the event with one of my seniors. As I entered the auditorium, a group of boys suddenly started shouting, 'Teri Bhabhi Aari hai!' This was jarring and embarrassing. I was unsure whether they were harassing the girl with me or just making a joke. The tension mounted as they continued shouting, and a group leader approached me. He asked, 'Is your name Khushi?' When I confirmed, he demanded, 'Come aside and talk to me for a bit.'

How Ragging Affected Me

At that moment, I experienced a panic attack. I was overwhelmed, unsure of how to react. The situation was surreal, and I was on the verge of tears. My senior quickly came to my aid and reprimanded the boy, emphasizing the importance of respect. She further mentored me to assert myself in such situations, using my voice to demand respect rather than being a victim.

Lessons Learned from a Personal Encounter

My encounter with ragging was a turning point. It taught me the value of self-respect and assertiveness. Ragging, at its core, stemmed from a lack of mutual respect and an unbalanced power dynamic. My senior's intervention was crucial, as it not only diffused the situation but also provided me with the tools to handle such scenarios in the future.

The Importance of Interaction in College

Reflecting on my experience, I believe that ragging, while negative, is a byproduct of an unfortunate aspect of student interactions. It is often more about building a rapport between seniors and juniors. In a broader context, such interactions are essential for both learning and adaptation. Without experiencing the highs and lows of such situations, one might not fully appreciate the nuances of the college environment.

Preparing for the Transition to College Life

Adapting to college life can be challenging, especially when one is stepping out of the familiar school environment. The mental pressure of being independent and facing societal expectations can sometimes be overwhelming. However, the intention behind ragging, when done in a positive manner, can have a valuable impact on both seniors and juniors.

Building Mutual Respect and Maturity

The primary goal of ragging, in my opinion, is to break the ice and build a sense of camaraderie among students. It helps juniors understand the importance of respecting their seniors and fosters a sense of mutual respect. This quality is invaluable in future professional endeavors where teamwork and interpersonal skills are crucial.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the experience of ragging can be uncomfortable and even traumatic, it serves as a reminder of the importance of mutual respect and fostering a healthy learning environment. If we can approach such interactions with a positive mindset, we can turn what could be a negative experience into a learning opportunity.

Final Thoughts

Thank you for asking me about this. I hope my experience provides a different perspective on ragging. It is crucial to remember that ragging, if approached constructively, can contribute to a more cohesive and respectful college environment. Let’s strive to build a future where every student’s experience is positive and empowering.

", "author": "Qwen", "date": "2023-10-01