Make most of college life, celebs show how

The journey from school to college takes a couple of days but it can be a daunting metamorphosis for many a student. The discipline of school to the liberating environment of college is a new experience for every youngster. Hindustan Times interacted with celebrities from the region to understand just how they coped and made the most of college life.

Participate in cultural festivals

Rajiv Thakur-actor, comedian (photo You Tube grab)

Actor and comedian Rajiv Thakur used to actively participate in cultural festivals at Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU). Reminiscing his college days, he says, “Even after passing out in 1998, I continued attending college events for years. Many of my initial comedy stand-up acts were directly inspired by experiences gathered at college. It’s the best time of life.”

The actor believes that one should persevere to realise one’s dreams. “Had (cricketer Sachin) Tendulkar been asked to sing like (Bollywood singer) Sonu Nigam, he wouldn’t have been such a success. Nor would it have been the other way round,” he adds.

Bharti Singh, stand-up comedian, actor (HT Photo)

Stand-up comedian Bharti Singh, 28, who did her post-graduation in history from BBK DAV College for Women in Amritsar, says she focused on extra-curricular activities such as rifle shooting and archery. “I hardly attended classes and my teachers barely recognised me. I think students should follow their heart and do what they are passionate about.”

Mandy Takhar, actor (photo You Tube grab)

Actor Mandy Takhar, who won hearts with her performance in the movie ‘Sardarji’ says, “Education holds no value if you don’t apply it in your lives.” Having studied drama at Kingston University, London, she says used to be an active participant in co-curricular activities. “I don’t like to be controlled,” she says. “Though I was decently good in academics, I would often bunk classes, get caught and was scolded by teachers and my mother. Yet I enjoyed every bit of my college days.”

Freedom and opportunities

Rana Ranbir, Punjabi comedian, writer and actor (HT photo)

Punjabi comedian, writer and actor Rana Ranbir,45, says he entered college with the hope of tasting freedom after a sheltered school life. “But with freedom comes responsibility. If handled without discretion, it can land one in trouble,” he says.

Gurpreet Ghuggi, comedian, actor (photo You Tube grab)

Comedian Gurpreet Ghuggi, a 1984 college passout from Nabha, used to be a diligent student. “With everything digitised these days, students have more opportunities. They should make the most of these options,” he says.