Alumna Interaction “Pursuing Passion over Obligation: A Mantra for a Lifetime”

The Department of English Literature and Language at IIS (Deemed to be University) organized an alumna session titled “Pursuing Passion over Obligation: A Mantra for a Lifetime” on November 7. The event was open to students, research scholars, and faculty members. The lecture was delivered by Ms. Anumika Bahukhandi, a distinguished alumna from the Class of 2008. An accomplished professional with over 10 years of experience, her career spans roles in journalism as a reporter, feature writer, and senior sub-editor, as well as a Communication and Knowledge Management Specialist for a World Bank project.

The session commenced with a warm welcome from Dr. Sanghmitra, who introduced Ms. Bahukhandi. Invited to share her professional insights, Ms. Bahukhandi delivered an inspiring talk highlighting career choices, mental health, and personal growth. She emphasized college as a transformative phase, urging students to align career choices with personal interests. Acknowledging growing parental support, she advised patience, politeness, and openness to guidance while maintaining positivity in challenging encounters. Addressing mental health, Ms. Bahukhandi stressed its prioritization, advocating meditation as a powerful tool for well-being and encouraging students to share concerns with trusted individuals.

Ms. Bahukhandi concluded by emphasizing passion as a guiding force and adaptability as key to navigating nonlinear career paths. Citing examples of Steve Jobs and J.K. Rowling, she inspired students to pursue their passions with perseverance. The session concluded with Dr. Sanghmitra thanking Ms. Bahukhandi for her motivational talk, leaving students enriched with practical strategies for balancing passion, professional growth, and mental well-being.