2021: A Year of Triumph and Reflection
2021 has been a year marked by achievements and personal growth. Though not without its challenges, this year has seen significant milestones in my academic and personal life. Here, I reflect on the most noteworthy positive outcomes of the year.
The Road to Success
One of the highlights of my year was the completion of my Ph.D. within two years and six months, achieving one of the fastest Ph.D. completions at NIT Trichy. This milestone was a testament to my dedication and hard work.
Following this, I transitioned into a full-time professorship, with a primary focus on research. In 2021, I made substantial progress in my research, resulting in the publication of over ten high-impact research papers. This body of work not only solidified my position in the academic community but also elevated my reputation among peers, and I was able to connect with numerous professors and students from around the world due to my LinkedIn network.
Collaborative Success and Personal Connection
Collaboration has been a cornerstone of my professional growth. This year, I had the opportunity to collaborate with several professors abroad for research. The most special collaboration was with my co-author, Vijaya, who is also one of my mother. We co-authored two papers together, and our personal relationship has grown stronger through our shared academic endeavors.
The formulation of this particular paper stemmed from a conversation with my mother, which led to its submission in one of the leading microbiology journals. Despite typically conducting the complex coding and analysis, this time, I entrusted my mother with the task of manuscript preparation. This unique arrangement not only showcased a strong family bond but also underscored the collaborative nature of our research.
Personal Growth Through Challenges
Navigating personal and professional challenges has been equally transformative. My relationship with my girlfriend did not last, but I found clarity in my feelings and grew as a person. The break ended up being beneficial, helping me realize that my emotional connections were more platonic in nature and not based on romantic attraction. This realization has been immensely helpful in understanding my emotional needs and preferences.
Looking at my personal life, breaking up with my girlfriend was a difficult but invaluable experience. It allowed me to reconnect with parts of myself that had been neglected for a long time. Over the year, my emotional state improved, and I felt like I was handling life better. Despite the challenges, my marriage has grown stronger, and we are celebrating our 8th anniversary soon. This year has been a journey of personal growth and resilience.
Conclusion
This year has been a testament to the resilience and determination of the human spirit. Despite the setbacks, the seeds of personal growth and innovation have flourished. Each challenge, whether in my personal or professional life, has contributed to my overall development and has made me stronger. 2021 was not just a year of achievement but also a year of soul-searching and transformation.