INTRODUCTION
Good morning everyone, respected Principal Sir/Ma’am, teachers, and my dear
juniors.
My name is Amit Kumar Shukla, and you can also call me Cadet Amit Shukla.
I completed my Class 12 from Creative Public School in 2022, securing 75% marks.
Even during my school days, I was very clear about my career goal. I had decided
that I wanted to join the Merchant Navy.
After completing my 12th, I appeared for the IMU-CET (Indian Maritime
University Common Entrance Test) and secured All India Rank 118. Based on my
rank, I got admission to Chitkara University School of Maritime Studies, Punjab,
where I pursued my [Link]. in Nautical Science. I studied there from 5th September
2022 to 12th July 2026.
Those years completely transformed me. I gained technical knowledge, developed
discipline, improved my communication skills, and became more confident and
responsible. College not only taught me about ships and navigation but also
prepared me mentally and physically for the life of a seafarer.
After graduating, I appeared for the Round 1 interview conducted by Columbia
Aurus Shipping Pvt. Ltd. In addition to written tests, I went through several
interviews, medical examinations, and psychological assessments. These
assessments were designed not only to test my technical knowledge but also to
evaluate my personality, decision-making ability, emotional stability, and
presence of mind.
After successfully completing all the required formalities, I appeared for the Round
2 interview conducted by Pacific Careers Limited, a Singapore-based company and
a subsidiary of the Kuok Group. I was selected in January 2026. After my
selection, I completed another round of documentation, medical examinations,
mandatory online training, e-learning modules, and various pre-joining formalities.
On 20th April 2026, I visited the Columbia Aurus office in Delhi to sign my
employment contract. It was a very special day because it also marked the
beginning of my first international journey.
My joining port was Paranaguá, Brazil. To reach there, I travelled through multiple
international flights before finally boarding my first vessel, “SANDPIPER PACIFIC,”
on 23rd April 2026.
Serving on my first ship was an unforgettable experience. I worked with officers
and crew members from different countries, experienced life at sea, and learned
that teamwork, discipline, responsibility, and effective communication are the
foundation of a successful maritime career. After serving on board for 2 months
and 15 days, I signed off from the vessel with valuable experience, greater
confidence, and memories that I will always cherish.
Overall, my journey has been challenging, exciting, and full of learning. If there is
one message I would like to leave with all of you, it is this:
No matter where you come from, if you have a clear goal, stay disciplined, work
hard, and never give up, you can achieve your dreams.
Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Creative Public School, my
respected Principal, teachers, mentors, and all the faculty members. Thank you for
guiding me, believing in me, and helping me build the confidence to dream big and
turn those dreams into reality.
Once again, thank you, Creative Public School, for giving me this opportunity to
share my journey. I hope my experience inspires some of you to dream big and
work hard to achieve your own goals.
Thank you everyone for your valuable time. Have a wonderful day!