ECA Trials and Tribulations: Irksome Experience

When soaring cut-offs shatter the chances of getting in one's dream college, ECA talent comes to the rescue. Pinning their hopes on ECA trials, the aspirants equipped themselves to give it their best shot. But, as it turned out to be, the trials were a harrowing experience.

Where I attended the trials for creative writing and debating, the problem of mismanagement did not just begin with the non-compliance with the time slots and subsequent delays. It extended to rooms without even a fan. So we had to brave the sweltering heat, sweat-drenched and utterly exhausted.

The candidates were not called in any order, rather they lined up in a never-ending queue randomly, which led to the elongation and cutting of rows midway by "invaders".

While the creative writing trial, albeit delayed by 3 hours, went on smoothly, for debates we were standing for over 8 hours. We were given a room to sit at night, around nine. That was an imbroglio. Students had even flown from other cities, and many of them left earlier so not to miss their flights. The whole chaotic condition continued till 11, when it got over. By then the jury, the officials, and most importantly the candidates were too tired. Our brains were jammed, and at this stage we were expected to lubricate it to produce ideas, words, and patience. 

Parents were seen fretting at how they have been waiting like this since the past few days, from one trial to another, abandoning all their chores.

Ishaan Jha, another candidate who attended the trials in another reputable college says, " the debating trial was a havoc. It took them almost 16 hours to conduct, instead of the promised two hours. Waiting for my turn since 9 in the morning, I was finally told that remaining trials would be conducted the next day. Thirsty, hungry and dejected, we found no solace. The topics, too were diverse in scope and difficulty level."

When hardly a dozen students are to be selected from thousands in ECA trials, the chances are already bleak, aggravated only by tough competition and mismanagement.