From June 11 to July 11, millions of fans worldwide tuned in to watch the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Among them was senior Aditya Dev, who was merely hundreds of feet away from some of the most talented soccer players on the planet.

“Everyone was decked out in their country’s colors and blowing vuvuzela [horns],” said Dev. “I don’t think that I’ll ever be able to experience something like that again in my life.”

Dev was able to attend the much-coveted event after his uncle, who works for a company that sponsored the matches, managed to get discounted tickets. Dev’s family coincidentally was taking a trip to India around the same time and was able to make a side-trip to South Africa to catch three matches. The trip to the World Cup may have been a last minute decision for Dev’s family, but, in his opinion, those three games of insanity were well worth it.

“I was really lucky that I went to the World Cup, especially considering that it was a last moment decision,” said Dev.

Considering that this year’s World Cup was expected to be the most-watched television event in history, the dedication of the fans at the game was something that did not go unnoticed for Dev. The ultimate experience that he had in South Africa did more than just entertain him for a few games; the trip has turned him into an avid soccer fan.

“I’m wasn’t really much of a soccer fan before, but now I really enjoy soccer. I definitely hope to go to another World Cup if I ever get the chance,” said Dev.