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Dhvaj Dhyani
Digital Nomad Dhvaj Dhyani, is the online editor of Diversity Magazine and the designer and webmaster of https://differentlyabled.in/. This year he completed his BCA course from SEMCOM University, Anant, Gujarat with a 9.00sgpa and 8.1cgpa and stood 3rd in the university. He started his MCA online to devote more time for work. His story is exciting. Currently he is working with Chakshumathi on developing a 360 degree accessible LMS titled LAAMS for School students. Read below his exciting story he penned for Diversity
My interest in technology began long before I entered college. During my school years, I was fascinated by computers and the digital world. By the time I reached the 11th standard, I had already decided that I wanted to pursue a Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA). I believed that technology had the power to transform lives, and I wanted to be part of that transformation.
After completing my Class 12 board examinations, I took admission at SEMCOM, a reputed college near my home. Little did I know that the next three years would not only strengthen my technical knowledge but also teach me valuable lessons about confidence, independence, and lifelong learning.
The years between the 10th and 12th standards played a major role in shaping my educational journey. During my 10th standard, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional education, forcing schools to shift to online learning. The situation continued throughout most of my 11th standard.
Like millions of students around the world, I had to adapt to digital learning environments. Classes, assignments, and examinations moved online. Although this was a challenging period, it also taught me how technology could ensure continuity in education during difficult times. Through online learning, I developed self-discipline, digital skills, and the ability to learn independently.
Despite the challenges, I performed well academically and secured the third rank in my class.
When schools reopened during my 12th standard, I felt that studying from home allowed me to use my time more efficiently. I requested my class teacher to allow me to attend school only once a week while continuing most of my studies independently. This arrangement helped me focus on academics, but it also reduced my social interactions.
Before the pandemic, I had been a confident and outgoing student. However, spending nearly two years learning from home with limited interaction gradually made me more reserved. As college approached, I realized that rebuilding my confidence would become one of my biggest personal challenges.
After completing the admission process, I had two months before college began. During this period, I focused on preparing myself mentally for a completely new environment.
On 14th June 2023, I received an email informing me that classes would begin on 26th June 2023. The day I had been waiting for had finally arrived.
Like many students entering college for the first time, I felt both excited and nervous. My mother accompanied me on the first day because she was naturally concerned about how I would manage in a new environment. Fortunately, the first day went smoothly, and I began settling into college life.
The college conducted a week-long orientation program that introduced us to the campus, faculty members, and academic environment. While the orientation helped me become familiar with college life, it also made me think seriously about the importance of becoming independent.
Once the orientation program ended, I made an important decision. I requested my mother not to accompany me to my classroom anymore and to allow me to navigate the college independently. Although she was initially worried, she trusted me and agreed.
Mother Alpa Dhyani, father Rupesh Dhyani, sister Dwisha Dhyani with Dhvaj on an outing
From that day onward, throughout all three years of my college life, I navigated the entire campus on my own. Whether it was attending lectures, visiting administrative offices, participating in events, or moving between classrooms, I managed everything independently.
The college administration had granted me permission to use the lift whenever necessary. However, I chose not to use that privilege. Instead, I preferred using the stairs and navigating the campus just like every other student. This decision significantly strengthened my confidence and taught me that independence grows through experience and persistence.
Over time, what initially seemed challenging became part of my daily routine. College became the place where I truly learned how to trust my abilities and make decisions independently.
Regular classes began on 5th July 2023. One of our first lectures was Web Development, a subject that immediately captured my interest because of my passion for technology.
During the introductory session, the teacher asked every student to introduce themselves. When my turn came, I stood up and introduced myself confidently. Among approximately 120 students, I was one of the few who spoke with confidence and clarity. The teacher appreciated my introduction and praised me in front of the class.
That simple moment had a powerful impact on me. It reminded me that confidence is not something that appears overnight—it grows through action. For the first time since the pandemic, I began to regain the self-belief I had lost during years of isolation.
Academics became a source of confidence. Through consistent effort and dedication, I performed well in examinations and gradually earned recognition from both students and faculty members. People began to recognize me not because of my challenges, but because of my abilities, achievements, and determination.
One of the proudest moments of my college life came when I was selected to represent my college in an inter-college chess competition. Chess has always required concentration, strategic thinking, and patience—qualities that are equally important in education and personal development.
I was determined to perform well and represent my college with pride. Through teamwork and effort, our college secured a Silver Medal in the competition. This achievement further strengthened my confidence and demonstrated that success comes through preparation, dedication, and perseverance.
Growth Through Digital Education As I progressed through my BCA program, technology remained at the center of my educational journey.
The subjects I studied introduced me to various aspects of the digital world, including web development, programming, databases, software applications, and emerging technologies. Each semester expanded my understanding of how technology influences education, communication, business, and everyday life.
The transition from online learning during the COVID-19 period to a full college environment gave me a unique perspective on digital literacy. I experienced firsthand how technology could bridge gaps in education and create opportunities for learning regardless of circumstances.
Digital literacy is more than simply knowing how to use technology. It involves understanding how to learn, communicate, collaborate, and solve problems using digital tools. Throughout my college years, I developed these skills and learned how technology can empower individuals to achieve their goals.
The second year was one of the most enjoyable phases of my college life. Academically, things went smoothly. I had developed strong friendships and established a good rapport with both students and teachers. By this point, I felt completely comfortable navigating the campus independently and participating in various college activities.
During the second year, the college began conducting two internal examination papers on the same day. This required me to prepare for multiple subjects simultaneously and manage my time effectively.
Balancing the workload of two examinations in a single day helped me develop stronger study habits, better planning skills, and greater academic discipline. The experience taught me how to organize my schedule efficiently and remain focused under pressure.
Apart from academics, the second year was a period of growth and stability. I strengthened my friendships, became more involved in college activities, and gained greater confidence in my abilities. By the end of the year, I felt fully prepared to take on the challenges of my final year.
The final year marked the culmination of everything I had learned throughout my college journey. By this stage, I had developed strong technical knowledge, improved communication skills, and gained valuable experience in independent learning. I approached my final year with confidence and determination.
The fifth semester progressed smoothly, and I continued to perform well academically. As graduation approached, I reflected on how much I had changed since my first day of college. The shy and uncertain student who entered college in 2023 had gradually transformed into a confident and independent learner prepared to face future challenges.
One of the most unforgettable moments of my college life came during the annual day celebration. Before the event, the college published a list of students and parents who would receive awards. However, the categories were not disclosed.
Both my name and my mother's name appeared on the list.
As the ceremony progressed, I waited eagerly to discover why we had been selected. To my surprise, my name was announced for the Best Student of the Year (Male) award. Moments later, my mother Mrs. Alpa Dhyani's name was announced for the Enlightened Parent Award.
It was a deeply emotional moment for both of us. The recognition represented not only academic achievement but also years of perseverance, hard work, support, and determination.
My college journey concluded in May 2026, but the lessons I learned will remain with me throughout my life. College was much more than a place where I earned a degree. It was a place where I learned independence, confidence, resilience, and responsibility. It taught me how to adapt to new situations, overcome challenges, and continue learning regardless of circumstances.
Most importantly, my journey showed me the transformative power of education and digital literacy. Technology opened doors to knowledge, learning, communication, and opportunity. It enabled me to continue my education during a global pandemic and later helped me develop the skills necessary for success in an increasingly digital world.
As I move forward in my academic and professional journey, I carry with me the experiences, lessons, and confidence that I gained during my years at SEMCOM. These experiences have shaped not only the student I became but also the person I aspire to be.