"You made us proud, and I am sure you will continue to do this in the future. Always keep shining, my daughter. "
My father said this to me the day my 4th-year results were announced. I achieved first position in class, and my family praised me for my hard work. That day, I saw a special kind of peace and happiness in my father's eyes.
"Now, what is your next move? Would you study ahead?"
"Yes, Dad! I would do my master's degree."
"That's great! But which university would you join?"
He asked me about the university just because there was a university in our village nearby. We live in an area where we don't have such facilities available. We would have to travel to another city to gain a higher level of education and I couldn't go to another city.
"Dad! Punjab College has started a new initiative in which they are offering some master's programs. I would go and try to seek admission. "
"Alright! That would be a great thing."
Punjab College was the only big college in our area. It was built two years ago, and it was the first time they were offering master's programmes. I was happy as my biggest problem was going to be resolved. After a few days, I went there for admission.
"We will hire an experienced teacher for our master's degree programme, and we are sure that students will shine at our institution. "
This is what the principal said to me when I went to discuss the fee package.
"You would have to pay 30k as your first installment, and the rest of the things we will discuss later. " He further added.
"Alright, Sir!"
I paid 30k in the clerk's office and filled out my form. I chose English subjects for my graduation as it was my dream to do a masters in English.
"We will inform you when our classes start. "
The clerk man informed me when I went to submit my form in the office.
After a few days, I received a call from the college, and they informed me that the principal has summoned you to the college. I went there and met with the principal. After the formal greetings, he stated his point.
We honoured you in our college! It would have been a great journey, but sadly we weren't able to receive any admissions except two. Now our administration has decided that, it wouldn't be possible for us to hire a senior teacher for just two students. "
I was stunned to hear his words. He further added.
"We could have waited more, but we don't want to waste your time and inform you timely manner, so you can seek admission somewhere else."
I was sad to hear this, as I was not expecting this. They even returned my 30k and wished me the best of luck for my future. Anyhow, I returned home with a heavy head and didn't even eat my lunch. My parents were worried, and they asked me the reason for my sadness. I told them about it. They were also saddened to hear it. The whole night I spent worrying.
The next day, one of my father's friends came to visit him. He was a childhood friend of my dad and was very kind to us. I served him tea and biscuits. He asked me about my studies. My father told him the whole situation.
"Haven't you heard about the academy nearby, which has also started its master's degree programme?"
I nodded, so he further told me.
"They have even gained 20+ students for master's, and soon they are starting their classes. Go and seek your admission, it's not too late."
My excitement was at its peak to hear this. I thanked him and decided to take admission there. The next day, I went there and submitted my form. They told me that on 9 Sept they are starting new classes and I should be ready for it.
The next day, I went to the book's bookstore and bought new books. I was ready for my new journey. Although the Punjab's college administration made me sad, I was grateful to them, that they informed me timely to avoid any big loss. I joined the academy and completed my master's degree with pride.
Thanks for reading.
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