Embarking on a journey at Thakur College of Engineering and Technology (TCET) has been an extraordinary experience, filled with learning, growth, and unforgettable moments. As I enter my fourth year, I look back at my time here with a sense of pride and nostalgia. Here’s a glimpse into my journey from the first year to the present, highlighting the college environment, significant events, and my overall experience.

FIRST YEAR: NAVIGATING ONLINE LEARNING

My journey at TCET began in an unusual manner due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The first year of my engineering course was conducted entirely online, a significant shift from the traditional classroom setup. The admission process was delayed, and the academic year was shortened, which presented its own set of challenges.

Despite these obstacles, the faculty and administration at TCET ensured a smooth transition to online learning. Virtual classrooms, online lectures, and digital resources became the norm. While it was challenging to adapt initially, the support from the professors and the interactive online sessions helped bridge the gap. Group projects and online discussions fostered a sense of community, even though we were miles apart.

SECOND YEAR: RETURNING TO CAMPUS

The second year marked a return to offline classes, and stepping onto the TCET campus for the first time was an exhilarating experience. The sprawling campus, modern labs, and bustling student life were a stark contrast to the solitary online learning environment. Meeting my classmates and professors in person added a new dimension to my education.

The environment at TCET is vibrant and inclusive. The college promotes a culture of curiosity, encouraging students to explore beyond the curriculum. The faculty is approachable and always willing to help, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and learning. The campus life, with its numerous clubs and societies, offered ample opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities, making the college experience holistic and enriching.

COLLEGE FESTS AND HACKATHONS

One of the highlights of my time at TCET has been participating in college fests and hackathons, which are integral to the TCET experience.

Zephyr: The Ultimate Tech Fest

Zephyr is TCET’s annual technical fest, a celebration of innovation, creativity, and technical prowess. Zephyr 2023 was a particularly memorable event, showcasing a blend of technical competitions, gaming challenges, and cultural performances.

• Explore Cutting-Edge Tech: Zephyr features a lineup of technical events that challenge participants to push their boundaries and think outside the box. From coding competitions to robotics challenges, the fest is a playground for tech enthusiasts.
• Gaming Competitions: The gaming tournaments are a major attraction, testing strategic thinking and quick reflexes. It’s a platform for gamers to showcase their skills and compete in a high-energy environment.
• Entertainment Galore: Beyond tech, Zephyr is also about fun and entertainment. Live music, dance performances, and various cultural acts keep the energy high and the spirits lifted.
• Networking Opportunities: Zephyr provides an excellent opportunity to network with industry leaders, fellow students, and potential mentors, fostering connections that can be invaluable for future careers.

Hackanova: The Premier Hackathon

Hackanova is TCET’s flagship hackathon, attracting participants from all over India. The event focuses on developing solutions for social issues through technology, promoting innovation and technical excellence.

• Social Themes and Solutions: Hackanova encourages participants to address real-world problems, aiming to build impactful solutions using technology. The themes often revolve around pressing social issues, making the hackathon both challenging and rewarding.
• Technical Exposure: The event offers immense technical exposure, allowing students to showcase their skills in software and hardware development. It’s a platform for creative minds to come together and collaborate.
• Collaborative Environment: Hackanova brings together students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a collaborative and competitive spirit. The hackathon is not just about winning but also about learning and growing as a team.

REFLECTING ON THE JOURNEY

As I step into my fourth year at TCET, I reflect on a journey that has been as challenging as it has been rewarding. The transition from online learning to on-campus classes, the vibrant environment, and the exciting events like Zephyr and Hackanova have all contributed to shaping my college experience.

TCET has not only provided me with a solid technical foundation but also nurtured my overall development. The experiences, friendships, and lessons learned here will stay with me long after I graduate. As I look forward to my final year, I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am grateful for the incredible journey so far at TCET.