It's that time of the year - Press Release issued by Aga Khan University.

Karachi -- November 28, 2019 (PPI-OT)

Following is the text of press release issued by Aga Khan University (AKU)

Quote

It's been a year since his graduation from AKU, and Haider Ali, MBBS '18, can empathise with how this year's batch is likely to feel. "There's certainly a feeling of pride," Haider says. "But there also anxiety as the 'What's Next?' question starts to linger in everyone's mind."

He adds that there are a lot of other bittersweet experiences awaiting the graduating class. For example, Haider recalls how difficult it can be to leave one's hostel room. Room 178 in the Male Hostel had been Haider's home away from home for five years. In fact, Haider remembers missing his 'own place' even when he was back home with his parents during semester break.

But the biggest change will be being away from friends you've lived and studied with for years, many of whom Haider feels are like family. During his years on campus, Haider and his friends spent hours hanging out in each other's hostel room. A striking memory is of the all-nighters fuelled by their favourite energy drink from the convenience store nearby: one of many rituals he had grown accustomed to.

Haider Ali (third from left) with his CCIT team another member of the #AKUfamily: the Male Hostel cook, Zubair, who like a parent, would ensure that he didn't miss a meal as he rushed between classes and lectures. "I'd always leave my room key with Zubair. On my return, there would be a delicious meal waiting...