As a kid, I would always watch television and desire to be on the other side of the TV. Media has been influencing me since childhood through its multitude of sources like TV, Newspaper, and social media. I believe that the media gives empowerment to re-write the rules and challenge the status quo. Today, Journalists and media personalities are using social media as a springboard, encouraging people to call the shots! I have always been an expressive person who fights for the right. And, the media has played a crucial role in amplifying my voice. From talking about menstruation in a room full of men to empathising with an acid attack survivor, media has taught me everything.
I was born and brought up in Uttar Pradesh, after high school, I moved to Delhi for further studies. The plan was to study journalism and work with big media firms. The dream was to mark my presence in the media industry. I was in so much of haste, that I started working, during my college days, couldn't even wait until graduation. In the morning, I would reach college and learn Hindi typing, to be faster with news typing. After lectures, I would run for my part-time job, and then I would study relentlessly in the night.
The good part is even after a hectic schedule like this, I would not be tired at all. Guess the eagerness and excitement to get near my goal took away all other feelings and just pumped me up with immense energy. When I received my first salary, I felt good but wasn't satisfied because I was working, for something else. The only happiness was I could buy a gift for my parents with that salary.
I did a couple of jobs during my graduation course. One of them involved live anchoring for an online store where I could see the ever-increasing number of comments underneath my videos. Then, I got my first byline professionally while interning with Mumbai Mirror which savoured one of the most satisfying moments of my life, and all the trials and tribulations that dogged me earlier just receded into the background. That indeed was the happiest day of my life. I believe more than anything recognition and appreciation matters. Isn't that what we work for? Now, that was my calling for Journalism! I want to pursue post-graduation in Journalism to develop my skill sets and to be able to explore opportunities without any constrains.