KATHMANDU: Prof Dr Saroj Prasad Ojha is the Head of Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital. He is among the first batch of graduates who passed MD in Psychiatry from Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Institute of Medicine in 1999. The President of Psychiatrists’ Association of Nepal, Prof Dr Ojha has published numerous articles related to mental health in various journals. And in days ahead also, he plans to continue working in the sector of mental health by spreading awareness about it.  The doctor, who recently visited the Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan as guest lecturer, recalls his college days. MY ALMA MATER (S) I completed MBBS in 1993 and I did my MD in Psychiatry in 1999 — both from Maharajgunj Medical Campus, Institute of Medicine (IOM), Maharajgunj. COURSE STUDIED I studied Adult Psychiatry and Drug Addiction Psychiatry. COLLEGE LIFE It was the period to make our dream come true. College life also became a gateway leading me towards success. BEST OF COLLEGE LIFE It was difficult to get admission in the MBBS at IOM then. For 15 seats, around 600 students would apply and the competition was tough. Fortunately, I was able to make it through the competition to be among those 15 students who got to study MBBS. And I also met my better half during my college life. LASTING MEMORIES I was studying in MBBS Ist Year when I participated in the badminton competition — organised as a part of the college’s annual sports competition. I took part in categories like mixed doubles, and doubles, and I won gold medals. During this competition, I also met my future wife. I feel refreshed and entertained when I recall those moments. LESSON LEARNT Be committed, give maximum effort and concentrate to reach your goal. WORDS TO HEED Opportunity does not knock on your door again and again in life. When you get your opportunity, just grab it — the gate to success opens only for those who have winning attitude and can focus on their goal. Choose your friends wisely — judge them before choosing them as your friends because your friends’ circle determines your psychological and social development. HOW TO ACE IN COLLEGE Play sports for refreshment and entertainment. In 24 hours, study for eight hours, and sleep for seven to eight hours. In the remaining hours, have fun — listen to music, go for evening walk with friends among others. Maintain balance in life.