Desperation and Inspiration

I have completed a year in a B-School. But the learning has just begun.
In case you want to join a top B-School in the country and are reading this for all the good things that happen to you in a B-School, sorry, I will disappoint you.
The first year went by and I felt that I have not learnt much. I came with an idea that I will come across open minds, people sharing their experiences and willing to learn as they argue. I have now realized that when your own mind is preoccupied, you cannot learn new things. I know I am restating the age old wisdom, but you only realize that it is wisdom and not a fancy quote when it happens to you.
We all joined with high hopes and dreams of making millions. Then the sub prime happened. And now the markets are bleeding. Just today a friend of mine was not offered a job because he did his internship on Credit desk and nobody wants to utter that word in the market today, leave aside dealing in it. The future is not as rosy as we thought it would be. The India growth story seems history. From the dreams of the best job we are slowly preparing ourselves to the reality of any job, as long as it is some job! Add to that the expectations people have when they know where you are studying. The media doesn't help it either! I never thought that the news could be so far away from truth before I came here.
The times are turbulent. I have this opportunity to start something of my own. But I lack the courage and the conviction to do it. All these years of schooling has indeed done one thing, killed my risk appetite. In case you want to read what B-Schools should be doing and what they do, this is an excellent article. THE AMERICAN SCHOLAR
Just as I was getting into one of those spirals of disillusionment and disappointment, I came across this gentleman's lecture. I have heard inspirational talks before, but this is just not any other talk. In case you have the time, please watch this 76 minute long video on youtube. I am sure you will find something worthwhile, just I like I have found inspiration.
Randy Pausch - The Last Lecture
Now that the fear of future has subdued, the reality is here and it is not very pleasant one to look at. I have my exams from Monday and just like the last year, I know NOTHING!! Got to study Indian Legal System for the exam! Who wants to read that subject, I mean, if I am the manager, I would hire a lawyer if I need one! Somebody should teach Specialization of Labour to my Institute's directors!
But a man must do what he has to do before he can do what he wants to do!
I am off to study, but I want to thank Mr Pausch again! Thank you sir. Thanks a ton.