My First Job

My first job had a dramatic beginning and an equally dramatic end.

I was doing my PhD. Two and a half years had passed, and I felt I would not be able to complete it. My confidence was low, though there was no real reason for it. My progress was good, and I already had material ready for publication.

Around that time, I got a job offer that was far below my academic background. Still, I accepted it.

As a first job, it was extremely challenging. I was entrusted, along with a few others, with the responsibility of setting up a new department, and that too within a year. The institute was to complete 25 years, and the then Prime Minister was to inaugurate it.

Nobody liked the idea of taking up a low-paying job in a place so far from home. Despite all objections, I joined.

We completed the assignment on time. The Prime Minister inaugurated the department. I had a photograph with her, standing in front of a bioreactor designed by us.

The very next week, I wanted to return to my institute to complete my PhD. My boss would not let me go. He had many plans for the institute and believed I was one of the important spokes of the wheel.

I tried to explain how close I was to finishing my PhD. He would not budge. A tussle followed. Eventually, the administrative officer had to intervene to secure my release.

The next morning, I left for Delhi by the GT Express.

As the train moved out, I saw my boss standing with others, tears in his eyes. I felt deeply guilty for disappointing him.

The 58-hour journey was filled with memories of the good times I had in Mysore.