‘My college widened my musical horizons’: 22-year-old who wants to go abroad and become a DJ

Divyam Saini completed his bachelor’s degree from Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA) in 2021. Despite missing out on some campus activities due to the pandemic, the alumnus recalls his journey at Apeejay quite fondly. Passionate about music, Divyam plans to become a DJ. Know more about his journey:

What did you pursue at Apeejay College of Fine Arts.

I pursued a bachelor of vocation courses (BVoc) in sound technology. I love music.

How did you develop an interest in music?

I was introduced to music at a very early age. Being passionate about music, my mother made me listen to a lot of Punjabi music. As a child, I also took interest in playing drums and dhol. My family encouraged me a lot when I played dhol. I wanted to go abroad and pursue music further. But before that, I wanted to learn about the fundamentals, which is why I pursued some courses in music in India. As I grew up, I also began listening to various other genres of music like rap, hip hop, trance, etc. I was highly inspired by the music and simultaneously involved myself in music production as well. My goal is to become a professional DJ.

Tell us about your experience at ACFA.

I got a very good exposure at Apeejay with hands-on learning opportunities which were very helpful. I participated in the Youth Festival competition and won accolades. The journey was full of new learning and experiences. The faculty taught us with a lot of care despite classes being in virtual mode. 

Following the completion of my course at ACFA, I continued my process of learning. I even enrolled myself in a DJ class to learn more about the art.

You mentioned how you developed an interest in a variety of musical genres. How did that happen?

My college had a great role to play in this since this was where I was exposed to people with different tastes and cultures. Naturally, they impacted me and widened my musical horizons. I began researching several international DJ artistes—that is when I came across DJ Snake who is my inspiration. I watched a lot of DJ shows online and that is how my interest developed. Gradually I set up a studio at home and began working there.

What is the way forward?

Now, I am looking for opportunities to pursue higher studies in business management from abroad. But I am equally invested in music and working towards fulfilling my goal. I will also be pursuing a course in DJ in the meanwhile. Of late, I have even produced some original music for my YouTube channel.

How did you make a sudden shift to business management?

It is more of a backup plan. Making a career in DJing can be challenging so my mother suggested I do a course alongside my musical training; overall she is supportive of my choices. The latter continues to be my first career choice.