“My journey has been shaped by both professional experience and education,” says Santoshini Behera from G. Udayagiri, Odisha. After completing nursing, I realized the importance of higher education to broaden my career opportunities and make a greater social impact. Working in nursing gave me valuable life skills, financial independence, and clarity about my goals.

Returning to Kalinga Mahavidyalaya, Kandhamal to pursue my Undergraduate degree was made possible with the constant support of my family, the accessibility of the college, and the guidance provided under the OHEEPE program. The program helped me improve my academic planning, understand modern technology applications, and provided mentorship that strengthened my confidence in balancing professional experience with higher education.

Being part of this learning environment, combined with OHEEPE support, motivated me to aim higher. I hope my journey inspires other students to leverage professional experience and programs like OHEEPE to achieve their educational and career aspirations.