Final Year

As we entered the Final year some of our friends had started to think what next. Job opportunities were limited and there were more scopes in PWD (Public Works Department). As we were in Semester system, some thought it is okay to carry arrears and get out of the College, their main aim is to clear the oldest arrears (arrears can be kept for 3 years).

During second semester [of Final year] I was looking for job advertisements in newspapers. It was from ISRO's Sriharikota Range (SHAR). It had requested application from 'those appearing for final year examination also'. But we had our own doubts.

So I approached one of our lecturer who immediately said 'apply. what for you are waiting'. So application was sent and forgotten. Examinations were over and the unknown wait began.

It was not long - and the call for interview from SHAR has come. Since I had no idea about SHAR and its location (the interview letter contained details of how to reach etc.), I contacted some relatives who were in ISRO and got details of the accommodation, etc.

So my first job search expedition (and the only one also) began.

The stay was in Sullurpeta, the nearest railway station for SHAR. I stayed in the better hotel in Sullurpeta - in a hall with other few interview candidates, slept in a mat, shared the bathroom. The travel to SHAR was by the departmental bus. There was quite a good amount of aspirants.

The wait never disturbed me, and no tensions, though the interview was around evening only. It was a barren land with only two or three buildings. The interview went well for over 45 minutes and I had to wait again for results.  At around 6 pm some 10 of us were asked to go for medical examination (with a clause, that it does not assure you are offered the job, but only that you are shortlisted). After completing all, and dinner I was walking in the congested street aimlessly. New place, not so big a place to explore. 

At some location, one senior person called me and enquired about my visit. After hearing it was interview, he requested that we go to a temple and came with me. It was a little long walk but he was briefing the details of the deity Chengaalamman 

( my mind was not fully on this) who is more powerful. [** We used to come to this temple almost during every of our launch I am a part, after our task is completed]. It was a very small temple under a big tree We did a simple praying and returned back. He assured that I will come here again and we will meet again.

I left in the morning , reached Chennai and visited my friend Muthiah who was staying in a mansion in Triplicane. That day night I left for Madurai. And all are forgotten.