Director’s e-Party for the Graduating Class of 2020
13 June 2020
For every BITSian, Director’s Party is an event that holds a special place in their lives. Ever since, it has always been a gathering which is full of emotions, memories, heavy hearts and a sense of fulfillment and achievement. This year too, it was organised, not physically but virtually due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The virtual ceremony commenced with Prof. Souvik Bhattacharyya, Vice Chancellor address to the graduating students. In his encouraging speech, he wished graduating class of 2020 a great future and said, “Don’t lose balance in the present testing times, and learn some new skills which may help you in future”. Instilling hope and faith, he advised the students to be good citizens because it is non-negotiable and at no cost can that be compromised.
Prof. Sudhirkumar Barai, Director, BITS Pilani, Pilani campus in his address said that the students’ stay at BITS has taught them simplicity, which also happens to be the USP of the campus. Giving a few tips to the students he advised them to embark on their journey in the real and tough world and give a twist to the challenges they’ll face instead of getting deterred by them. He further assured the students that they could count on their alma mater, whenever they are in need and also urged them to stay connected.
Prof. Arya Kumar, Dean Alumni Relations guided the graduating students to be upright in all spheres of their lives. He laid emphasis on the point that nothing is impossible until you think it is. He also encouraged them to contribute to the growth of their alma mater in whatever way they could.
Among others who motivated with their words of wisdom and wished good luck to the students were Mr. Ashokkumar Prabhakar, Alumni of 1994 Batch and presently partner at PwC, Prof. Srikanta Routroy, Associate Dean, SWD, Prof. Navin Singh, Chief Warden and Prof. Surekha Bhanot, Warden Meera Bhawan. These esteemed alumni and faculties in their respective addresses inspired the students to follow their passion, and also stay optimistic. They emphasized on the fact that being authentic is what is important and success is relative.
On this occasion, Mr. Vishnu Chandi, a BITS Pilani alumnus (2008) shared his experiences related to the impact of 2008 financial crisis which hit his batch, and how most of them turned those challenges into opportunities. He cheered the students and said, “It is absolutely fine if you don’t know what you want to do. Have an open mind towards opportunities. Adapt to the changes in the macroeconomics around you”. He also shared that his best take away from the campus was his relationship with seniors, juniors and his mentors.
A few graduating class students - Yash Devnani, Shruti Sharma and Akash Singh also shared their feelings and emotions, and highlighted their learning and experiences at the campus.
Prof. Rajeev Sakhuja, Associate Dean, Alumni Relation presented the token of thanks, while leaving the students with a few more of inspiration and encouragement.