“What does Gavel mean to you?” This was one of the questions I was asked during my interview for the Gavel Subcommittee. In that moment, I gave an answer off the top of my head, it was an interview, after all, and I was feeling a bit nervous despite knowing most of the panel. But in the weeks that followed, every time I sat back with my phone for some mindless scrolling, that question kept replaying in my mind. I found myself asking, “Really… what does Gavel mean to you?” More often than not, I’d slip into deep thought and reflection, completely ignoring the funny cat videos in my YouTube feed.
I can’t explain what Gavel means to me without taking you through a long, detailed journey spanning six years. Going down memory lane, back to 2019, there was a conversation that started it all, a conversation with Shamla Naleer, who was once a VP of Gavel UOC. Shamla, with whom I share a sisterly bond and whom I deeply admire as a mentor, told me all about Gavel. I remember her saying, “When you get into UOC-yes, when, not if, you absolutely HAVE to join Gavel. It will be one of the best experiences you’ll ever have.” My seventeen-year-old self-hung onto every word with awe, even though I could hardly imagine ever getting into the University of Colombo. That conversation sparked my dream of joining Gavel UOC. I began exploring their webpage, reading blog articles, and watching videos Shamla Dhathi (as I fondly call her) posted on Instagram. I even practiced what I’d say at my first meeting, long before it ever became a reality!
Fast forward to 2023: I had finally gotten into UOC and was thrilled about the new path ahead. I was eager to do my best, try new things, and, of course, join Gavel! I still remember how inspired I felt after GV Naethree Akka’s speech during one of our orientation sessions. My first Gavel meeting was the Aurudu-themed meeting in 2023, held on the university grounds. I took on the role of Ah Counter during that very first meeting, and it felt like a huge accomplishment. I left feeling happy and refreshed, determined to attend the next meeting.
But life doesn’t always go as planned, does it? The stress of navigating a new environment, trying to make friends, and worrying about whether I’d ever fit in began to weigh on me. Slowly, I withdrew into a shell I was too afraid to break out of. I became more reserved and ultimately chose to stick to faculty-based clubs and familiar faces. Though I joined online Gavel meetings, I avoided physical ones at all costs, stubbornly convincing myself that I’d never fit in.
Little did I know how wrong I was or how much I’d regret not spending enough time with Gavel during my first year. It wasn’t until I stepped into my second year that I realized I’d never stop feeling uncomfortable around people unless I actually put myself out there and interacted. I’m eternally grateful to myself for taking that first step. I promised myself that I’d attend more meetings, take on more table topics, and, most importantly, make friends. With that, I made one of the best decisions: joining the Education Subcommittee. It didn’t take long to realize that Gavel was more than just an organization or a club; it was a place that welcomed everyone with open arms.
Despite being someone who disliked crowds and chaos, I found myself looking forward to the fun banter and conversations in Gavel meetings. I met people who made me feel valued and included, encouraging me to break out of the shell I had built around myself. No matter how tiring or hectic life got, I eagerly anticipated the next meeting, the whole process of working behind the scenes and finding role-players. In October, I had the wonderful opportunity to be the TMOD for the first time. Hearing members speak on topics based on the theme I had chosen was an incredibly fulfilling experience. A special shout-out to GV Prabhani for being the best VP Education I could have asked for, and to GV Nuhaa and GV Nethmi for their constant encouragement.
And this is exactly what Gavel means to me. I haven’t spent a lot of time with this beautiful family yet; there’s still so much more to do and many opportunities to seize. But I’m determined to embrace it all and make this year my Gavel year. For many, Gavel might be a place to overcome stage fright or a platform to improve their skills and build new connections. To me, it’s all that, and more. It’s where I met people who became my biggest cheerleaders, even though we had only just met. It’s where I realized that, despite coming from different backgrounds and studying for different degrees, there’s always something that connects us.
Gavel helped me rediscover my enthusiastic self and reignited my excitement about university life. It provided a safe space where I could voice my most ridiculous thoughts or share my deepest feelings without fear of judgment.
Yet, I know I still have a long way to go. I’ve only just begun this journey, and I can’t predict what the months ahead will bring. But one thing is certain: I’ve fallen in love with Gavel. And, to quote Hazel Grace, “I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly, and then all at once.” Here’s to making more memories and discovering the best version of myself through Gavel!
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