I love learning. It makes me alive. It brings a sparkle to my eyes and a fire in my heart I didn't know I had.
There is absolutely no way I can describe how I feel about education - the thrill of not knowing something, the excitement of uncovering the truth, the joy and after glow of knowledge. Its like starting a new adventure every day, its like travelling to the unknown, its like being in love.
For the most part of my life, I sought new adventures, new hobbies, new experiences. I came across things I wanted to pursue - things I wanted to try out. However, I would do them for a week, and they would turn into a chore. My attention deficit brain would tell me to get out it as fast as I could. I remember taking a painting class on impulse one December - 5 days of oil painting at the National Art School. I had been sketching a lot and I enjoyed it. Why not pursue it for a week, I thought? I lasted 3 days before my brain started screaming for something else. Focussing on one thing for 7 hours a day, 5 days a week was something my brain was not wired for.
I was wrong - I discovered all I needed was a passion - something that would bring alive every fibre in my body and put a big happy grin on my face. Years of demystifying online marketing to clients and colleagues told me one thing - I love learning and I loved digital.
And so, when I walked into the campus of the University of Sydney and my spirits soared, I knew this was something my heart wanted.
However, it wasn't all rosy - Even as I was going through the motions of doing the course, I was plagued by uncertainties. Yes I knew I wanted this, yes I loved doing this, but is changing your career mid life a smart idea? What if I don't make a good educational designer? What if no one wants to hire me? What if the passion dies down? What if..what if...?
I had moments, no days, when there seemed no way out. I had bravely started my journey, but the end seemed just out of reach - like I was going to die of thirst with my outstretched hands a foot away from the water. It took me 9 months of applying for jobs every weekend, and not receiving a single call back to realise how much I wanted this, to realise how much I had put on stake, and to realise how much I was ready to lose to achieve this.
And today, its paid off. As I tentatively dip my toes into the world of education, I have big dreams in my eyes. I was extremely lucky to have parents who understood the value of education and supported me throughout my life. Not many Indian girls are - I hope to one day be able to make education accessible to all children alike. Irrespective of sex, age, background, nationality, education is a right and I want to be able to do my bit to ensure everyone gets it.
Wish me luck.
