April 4, 2024

GCIL, an encounter to fuel the soul

So, picture this: I’m minding my own business, pondering life’s mysteries like “What should I really be doing?” and “Where do I go from here?” You know, typical early thirties crisis stuff. Then, out of the blue, Ashu drops this bombshell suggestion: “Why don’t you join GCIL?” Now, I’ll be honest, I didn’t take it too seriously at first. But then, Julian starts echoing the same idea, both of them claiming they hadn’t discussed it. It’s like the universe is conspiring, right? So, after some serious contemplation (and a dash of “what-the-heck, let’s do it” attitude), I decided to dive into the GCIL experience. Hey, maybe GCIL holds the key to unlocking my next life chapter, right? 

Fast forward to me landing in Bengaluru at an ungodly hour running on fumes but determined as ever. Now, imagine this: Julian and I, both sleep-deprived, diving straight into a marathon of meetings with students, brain cells working overtime. By the end of the day, my head’s spinning, and I’m silently wondering why Julian did not schedule a chill day. But here’s the kicker: Julian’s energy is like rocket fuel for this program. It’s infectious, motivating these students to push boundaries, strive for excellence, even when faced with setbacks. And right now, as we’re nearing the end of the GCIL program, this energy boost is exactly what we need for success. 

GCIL is a crash course in empathy, teamwork, perseverance and what not —all wrapped into one chaotic adventure. GCIL doesn’t believe in easing you in gently. Nope, it’s straight into the deep end, rubbing shoulders with students who look as clueless as I feel. As for me, I’m wondering if I’ll even fit in. Will they accept me as a mentor? Turns out, they do, and faster than I expected. Before I know it, I’m knee-deep in their projects, feeling more connected than I ever imagined. And speaking of students, these are brave souls. They’ve traveled miles out of their comfort zones, grappling with cultural shock and unfamiliar territory, all to tackle problems they never knew existed. They’re all part of this group problem-solving gig, working with NGOs, trying to crack some serious (grand) societal issues. 

Cut to the final presentations, and folks, I’m not ashamed to admit, there were tears. Seeing these student’s hard work pay off, that pride shining on their faces—it’s a moment I won’t forget. And suddenly, it hits me why Julian does this every year, and why I should too. GCIL? It’s soul fuel, plain and simple. Sure, we didn’t solve all the world’s problems in one swoop. But we sparked hope, took small steps towards a brighter tomorrow. And let me tell you, my friends, that feeling? It’s indescribable. The trip was exhausting, sure, but my soul? Oh, it was singing. And hey, I even picked up a few life lessons along the way. Overall? A trip for the books.