Finally, I am a graduate!

Graduation is a great deal for everyone, and for me, it is even bigger. Recently, after a lot of effort and anxious nights, I graduated. I like saying this out loud I am a graduate now. At one point, it seemed to be a far-fetched dream and I was not sure whether I would be able to achieve it or not. Honestly, I never thought it would occur. It took courage, determination, patience, and faith to make this dream a reality, but now I can proudly say it was all worth it.

In 2010, after my surgery, I was bedridden for almost a year. My body was badly affected by the after-effects of spinal compression, and some of those symptoms continue to affect me. However, I lost the grip of my right hand. There was no nervous control whatsoever and I could not hold a pen in my hand. It affected my perseverance to continue my education. Whenever I would make up my mind to restart my studies, the biggest roadblock was not being able to hold a pen. I did not know any other way to distill my learning except for writing it down. It was always my go-to method as a student; I would write down notes to remember whatever I learned in school. Anyhow, almost four years passed in this dilemma. Then, I started taking chiropractic treatment from Dr. Mohsin. He changed the way I look that my disability. After a few sessions, he introduced me to a new manner to hold a pen in my hand without nervous control. I started holding a pen between my middle and ring finger. At first, it was different, but it worked. I continued practicing and eventually, I was able to write using my new grip.

It took me two years to complete my O and A levels. Without taking assistance from a writer, I managed to write all my answer sheets, thank God. I was never an excellent student so that reflected in my results as well but for me, it was everything that I had always dreamt of! Afterward, I took a hiatus. I had to find out a practical way to pursue further education. The traditional University-going method did not suit my lifestyle. It was difficult for me to manage a hectic routine due to my health and I was scared to settle in a University setting. Accessibility was one of the main reasons. Not just the accessibility of the institution, but also traveling. It was a daunting thought and I was not comfortable pursuing it. Even when I restarted my education, I gave up the scary science subjects because they made studying look so unpleasant. I had reached a point in my life where I understood that I was not a science student. Somehow, I had a better comprehension of who I was, and luckily, my parents were supportive of my decision too.

 

After a lot of research and thorough deliberation, I decided to go for Bachelor's in Arts from Punjab University as a private student. I had the liberty to study from home and it was just simpler. I chose this degree because it was a two-year program and I could choose the subjects. However, there were restrictions regarding the selection of the subjects, but it was still a convenient option. Although I was intrigued by the subjects and enjoyed studying them. For many people, this degree is a supplementary achievement over their ongoing educational endeavors. Even my sister and cousins have done BA with very little preparation. I have heard people saying that it's not even real education, but I beg to differ. For me, it was a life-changing experience.

The first part was easy and the examinations went smoothly too. However, for the second part, I had to face accessibility issues. I have shared a post regarding the same matter on social media as well. Anyhow, it was a very traumatizing experience not just because of the accessibility issue, but the difference in the environment. Previously, I had the most accommodating examination experience with British Council and comparatively, Punjab University was a shocker.

Now I look back at this journey with gratitude and hope in my heart. Being a graduate seemed impossible but perseverance pays off. Indeed Allah helps those who dare to pursue. I just want to emphasize the fact that courage and faith can do wonders. Whatever seems impossible today might be the reality of your life tomorrow; be positive and trust Him. Take a leap of faith and pray. He will put things in the right order (InshAllah).

P.S. A special thank you to my sister, Mahroo Ali, who constantly motivated me to pursue my education again. Although she used some pretty brutal methods to do it. Yet, she has a significant role in constantly pushing me to study. Thank you (there you go, I'm accepting your contribution publicly 🤭)