Life in college

Three years had passed since Siya's turbulent journey began. Now, she found herself on the brink of a new chapter: admitted to Aligarh Muslim University to pursue a B.Sc. in Nursing. Her dream of becoming a doctor, once so vividly tied to Mr. Oberoe's aspirations, seemed increasingly distant. Despite her relentless efforts, cracking NEET had proven elusive, especially with the added challenges of the ongoing pandemic.

As the lockdown restrictions eased, Siya prepared for another attempt at NEET. Her determination was unwavering, though she struggled with self-doubt and anxiety. The journey from Lucknow to Aligarh, a grueling six-hour trip, was one Mr. Oberoe supported her through. He wanted to ensure she had everything she needed for this new chapter of her life.

Mr. Oberoe, a renowned orthopedic surgeon, had always envisioned Siya continuing the family's legacy. His expectations weighed heavily on her, but Siya was determined to honor his dreams while carving her own path. Upon arriving in Aligarh, Mr. Oberoe helped her settle into the hostel and provided all the essentials she would need.

Siya's excitement about returning to campus was palpable. After months of online classes, the vibrant campus atmosphere felt like a breath of fresh air. However, her initial enthusiasm was tempered by her experience with her new roommates, Chahat and Alisha.

Chahat and Alisha greeted Siya with an icy reception. Their rebellious nature—marked by frequent parties, smoking, and relationships—was a stark contrast to Siya's focused and ambitious demeanor. Despite her best efforts to get along, their hostility and exclusion were evident.

Siya's presence on campus quickly garnered attention. Her academic achievements, good looks, and positive personality made her popular among teachers and students alike. Yet, the animosity from Chahat and Alisha persisted, creating a challenging living environment for Siya.

Despite their behavior, Siya remained focused on her studies. Her academic performance continued to shine, and she remained determined to prepare for the NEET exam. The negativity from her roommates was a constant backdrop, but she chose to concentrate on her goals.

One evening, while studying alone in the common area, Siya overheard Chahat and Alisha discussing their plans for a party. Their excitement and disdain for Siya's academic dedication were clear. This moment of alienation only strengthened Siya's resolve to rise above their behavior.

Amidst these challenges, Siya received a message from Anshu, an old friend. It had been years since they last spoke, and his message was a pleasant surprise. He reached out with words of encouragement and support, reminding Siya of the friends who had stood by her. This renewed sense of motivation helped her remain steadfast in her pursuit of becoming a doctor.

As the days passed, Siya continued to excel in her studies and prepare diligently for the NEET exam. Though her interactions with Chahat and Alisha remained strained, she focused on her personal growth and academic success. The journey was difficult, but Siya was determined to navigate it with resilience and grace, proving that even in the face of adversity, she could forge her own path.