Scholar-Journalist of the Week – An eventful day at the experiential marketing company

Sohon Simlai, a student with Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication, comes from Kolkata – the City of Joy and somewhat it resonates with him as a person. “I consider myself to be an extremely optimistic person, well sometimes it backfires as well, but no regrets,” he said. Sohon completed his bachelor’s in political science from Scottish Church College under University of Calcutta. He is an avid theatre practitioner as well as a film fanatic, and eventually filmmaking attracted him the most. The budding media professional got the opportunity to be the Chief Assistant Director of a Bengali feature film and that is one of the best feelings for a newcomer in this industry. This explains his love for experiencing new things in life and hence, he never shy away. The Apeejay student recently penned down an experiential article, which received great views. Read edited excerpts:

What intrigued you to study journalism/mass communication?

I never had a plan. I know it sounds very weird, that a grown up doesn’t have everything pre-planned. I’ve always been like that, go with the flow – sometimes it went according to my plan and sometimes not according to my plan. However, I am optimistic and optimistic people should always be ready with their heart being broken because things always don’t go according to one’s wish.  When I actually found what my calling is – telling stories, I wanted to be heard, just like every creator and there is a very tedious process behind being heard because ‘why would someone listen to my stories?’ People like to hear what they want to hear and to understand how to mould a message according to people’s wishes. Also, to tell my story is what intrigued me into mass communication.

How much time did it take you to write this article? Why did you pick to write an experiential piece?

It is a magical experience. I never thought something like this would happen to me, as I was never into writing. I feel my sister and Pijush sir of AIMC played a humungous role. My sister is my inspiration. She’s one of those people who’s good at everything she does, more like a multi-purpose project. At the same time, Pijush sir was nothing but the push which every vulnerable creator craves for – a silent assurance. It took me 20 minutes to write this article because I write what I see and feel, I don’t sugarcoat or try to sound professional though I need to. I chose this topic as I like venturing different genres and the industry visit to Communique India did spark the zeal inside me to be a better version of myself.

Do you think writing about personal experiences is challenging? 

Yes and no. No, because ultimately it’s your perspective, it’s what you feel, and you have no worries about what others might feel about your writing. It’s something which you are doing for yourself. Yes, because it’s what you write with no knowledge and how other people would react after reading it. As I said before, writers or any form of performer who showcase their talent are very vulnerable, always seeking for assurance. I guess that’s the only challenge I faced. Still working on it.

Some tips on how to write an experiential writeup

I would suggest to be honest. Let go of all the inhibitions and just write what you experienced first hand. Just pen it down and hope for the best and prepare for the worst, which is going unnoticed and also comes in terms with the fact of being unnoticed. Sometimes it really helps me.

When did you start your writing journey? What kind of books do you like to read?

I feel so ashamed right now. As I mentioned earlier, I have never been into writing or have a habit of reading books. Films have always been there for me, they taught me how to conceptualise and visualise. Football commentators like Peter Dury also helped me get a good grasp in the English language, and that helped me how to reach out to people.

How is AIMC helping you in your writing journey?

AIMC has been nothing but a friend. I feel it’s a holistic positivity, which gives you the impetus to be good at what you are. I really just can’t express in words my love for AIMC. I guess I still need to work on my writing skills so that I can pen it down properly. 

What are your plans after completing your course from AIMC?

As I said before I go with the flow. I’ll go wherever I feel needed and loved. Hopefully a good multinational advertising agency, where I can learn and put my best foot forward, so that I can generate the best output for my company. I guess that’s the AIMC way of life.