They say hostel life is all about the grind. It’s difficult, monotonous and challenging. But most hostelites of WCC find it to be some of the best years of their lives. Life as a resident at Women’s Christian College is exciting and memorable and a number of graduates from WCC would attest to that.
Women’s Christian College is a sight to behold with all its majesty and magnificence under the sun. But it looks even more magical under the moon and only the hostelites are privileged enough to admire it. The Doveton building, dressed in the golden hues shed from the numerous lamps surrounding it, is one of the most stunning sights of WCC.
Another highlight of life in WCC hostel is the legacy of traditions handed down to every batch. The hostelites learn the little traditions followed by their seniors. For instance, a newcomer would be startled to the core and confused by the abrupt table-banging that sometimes happens at the mess during dinner as part of the birthday celebration of resident students. These unique customs are welcomed and appreciated by the students, and faithfully passed on to junior batches.
The occasional movie night where the residents of all six hostels come together to watch a film of their choice and the Christmas carol rounds during which a merry group of singers and guitarists march around the hostel premises singing uplifting hymns are some other traditions that are dear to the residents. On the days preceding Christmas, the students, the Principal and the hostel wardens gather around a bonfire and spend hours together, singing songs and sharing stories.
Rainy nights at WCC are captivating, while others are melancholic. It is riveting to watch branched lightning cause havoc in the gloomy skies accompanied by thunder, while looking through the hostel windows at night. But it is heart wrenching to see old, wizened trees crack and give way, unable to withstand the ferocity of the elements.
By the time day-scholars stroll in for classes the next day, the broken branches and fallen leaves have been cleared, leaving only the sharp scent of freshly torn wood. Residents are also the first ones to spot the hilarious antics of puppies and dogs, the newly planted saplings and different flora and fauna such as snails, owls and mushrooms that seem to appear out of nowhere, after a heavy downpour.
Residents also learn to appreciate the little things only they get to enjoy. Not every student of WCC is permitted to walk the age-old stairs of Main Hostel, which was built in 1919. Not everyone has seen the breathtaking beauty of the chapel with only the yellow altar lamp on, giving a magical effect to the interior. It is safe to say that despite the challenges of hostel life and rules to be followed, hostelites know WCC in a way that day scholars don’t.
Hostel Blocks of WCC
Pic courtesy: @fahee_photography