Bhubaneswar: Marks in examinations may be considered the benchmark of immediate academic achievement but in the long run, they are never the determining factors of success. It is imperative that students imbibe a good value system and become good human beings with the clarity of self-perception, said Vice Chancellor of Rama Devi Women's University Professor Aparajita Choudhury.

Addressing the Plus II Champs event organised by Sambad Group to felicitate meritorious students at the auditorium of the University in the Capital recently, as chief guest, Professor Choudhury said parents should refrain from pressurizing children and allow them the freedom to choose subjects as per their preference and comfort level. This will help students identify their likes and academic choices while also encouraging them to plan their careers according to their choice, she said.

I am fortunate to have received this felicitation. Last year's felicitation of my seniors had encouraged me to give my best. The event has helped me realise that service to the society should be our priority- Advait Sahani, Government Higher Secondary School, Sundargarh

Dr Sanghamitra Pati, Director Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC), who attended the event as chief spokesperson, shared personal experiences with the students and said it took her 14 years to find her calling and map out her career. "I was a good student and aspired to be a doctor. But after pursuing medical education, I understood the difference between wanting to do something and the limitations or potential to actually pursue it. It is crucial that students identify their areas of strengths and weakness along with their choices," she added.

Indebted to Sambad for making my success memorable with this event. It will inspire students from my college to perform better. This occasion will inspire me further to pursue my dream to become an administrator - Sudipa Sahu, Rajendra Higher Secondary School, Balangir

Participating on the occasion, editorial advisor and editor of 'Katha' Gourahari Das interacted with the audience with inspiring stories. "A new struggle starts after the Plus II exams. Students will receive a lot of opinions at this phase. I would advise them to follow only what they feel is right," he said.

This felicitation has immensely added to our happiness. I thank the Sambad Group for this initiative - Satyanarayan Sahu, guardian, Keonjhar

Sambad Group's Managing Director Monica Nayyar Patnaik chaired the event and advised students to also focus on sports and extra-curriculars along with studies.