“I started my journey as a medical student, pouring my heart into it. However, despite relentless efforts, success remained elusive. When I shifted my focus to Mass Communication and Journalism, I faced skepticism and doubt from family and friends. I was often seen as unconventional, a departure from the expected path. Yet, it was precisely these challenges that ignited my determination to demonstrate that pursuing one’s passion can lead to remarkable achievements. Three years of unyielding dedication paid off when I was recognized as the Gold Medalist. However, this journey was not without its sacrifices. I missed out on the typical college experiences.
In the ever-evolving journey of life, my foray into Mass Communication and Journalism began humbly as a freelancer, crafting articles and lending my voice to a Hindi entertainment YouTube channel, all while nurturing dreams of becoming a journalist. Yet, during my second year, I stumbled upon the intriguing world of Public Relations and Corporate Communications. After attaining my Master’s degree, I delved into the dynamic realm of PR, swiftly realizing it entailed far more than disseminating press releases. Much of my success can be attributed to the guidance of exceptional mentors like Kavya Ramesh and Richa Srivathsava. Each role I embraced in my media career brought distinct responsibilities. Starting as a Copy Editor, a terrain unfamiliar in magazine writing, I introduced columns to the magazine, including the Writer Segment, unveiling the creative processes of 12 talented television writers. Transitioning to a correspondent, I undertook cover stories, connecting with talent managers and stylists, weaving conceptual threads into cover photoshoot themes, and more. It was a thrilling and, at times, chaotic journey, now empowering me to confront challenges with confidence. Content writing, another facet of my journey, transcended mere transcription, beckoning extensive research and crafting content that deeply resonated with readers.
Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to collaborate with inspiring individuals who not only kindled my passion but also provided unwavering support. From my first boss, a remarkable female journalist, to my later experiences in a PR firm with a predominantly female team, including the organization’s female founder. Thankfully, I haven’t encountered gender discrimination in my career. On the contrary, I’ve been empowered to explore new horizons and expand my horizons. It’s a blessing to have such a supportive network of individuals who champion women in the workplace.
In an era dominated by AI and the continuous evolution of technology, it’s vital to embrace our creativity. The goal is to be versatile and adaptable while mastering our chosen craft.
My message to whoever reading this is simple: Chase your dreams, and fight for your aspirations, but remember to savour the journey. Striking a balance between pursuing your goals and cherishing the moments is the true essence of a fulfilling life.”
- Abhyudaya Karamchetu, Communication Specialist