Wiz@words: ‘I draw inspiration to write from the non-fiction realm’

Given the fact that she seldom had the opportunity to pen her thoughts, this BCom (H) student of Apeejay Institute of Management & Engineering Technical Campus (AIMETC) has come a long way when it comes to writing. From writing about what she has read to what she observes, her topics are diverse. Meet Jishmaan, who will soon be going to the third year of her course.

What makes her written words interesting is that she draws inspiration from life lessons. Take an example. In one of the write-ups, she talks about the power of passion and how it is an incredible force that resides within every individual. It is an intense emotion that propels us to pursue our dreams, overcome obstacles, and achieve greatness.

In a candid conversation, she talks about her introduction to writing and how the faculty at AIMETC encouraged her to write more.

How did you get interested in writing?

We all write when we are in school – be it an essay or a writing competition. When I was at school, I was involved in various writing activities, though it was on a much smaller scale compared to what I do now. Back in school, the school encouraged participation in essay competitions and small writing projects, which helped me develop a foundational interest in writing that I have continued to build on in college.

Tell us about your programme.

I am a BCom (H) student focusing on accounting and finance. I’m just wrapping up my second year and gearing up for the third. I chose this field for its broad applicability in various sectors and my keen interest in financial systems.

How did you get into writing as a Commerce student?

When I joined AIMETC, our faculty encouraged me to explore writing. She appreciated my analytical skills and suggested I could articulate these skills well through writing. The thought that my article would be published on some platform with my name was a great motivation and still is. It swells my heart when I see my name with a piece that I have penned down. The initial push was to write about anything that intrigued me. My first piece was on the “power of passion,” a topic that I felt deeply connected with and thought could resonate well with others.

You draw as well. How did you get started?

My journey with drawing began in class VI after receiving a certificate in a competition. This early recognition fueled my ongoing passion for drawing. My drawing style varies; I often turn to my sketchpad when I’m feeling contemplative or need to unwind. Pencil sketching is my preferred medium as it allows for flexibility and detail.

Coming back to your writing, have you noticed any improvements in your language skills?

Definitely. Engaging in writing and debate has refined my articulation and vocabulary. It’s not just about writing; these skills translate into more effective communication in all areas of my life. I find that I can put my words in a better manner and even my articulation has improved.

How do you choose the topics for your writing?

Most of my topics stem from the books I read, particularly in the non-fiction realm. I like to expand on these ideas, explore them in-depth, and connect them to wider societal issues or personal experiences. I’m inclined towards non-fiction, especially books that delve into personal development and psychology. Atomic Habits by James Clear and Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill have been influential. I am also exploring other works that challenge my perceptions and offer new insights.

What are your plans after finishing your third year?

While preparing for my final year exams, I’m also considering various post-graduate options, including an MBA. However, I’m open to other paths that might leverage my skills and interests more directly. I am preparing for the SBI PO exam as well. However, I will continue with my interest in writing and drawing.

How would you describe your writing style?

My writing style tends to vary depending on the topic and my mood. For academic or technical topics, I lean towards a more formal, structured approach. However, when I write about personal experiences or more creative subjects, my style becomes freer and more expressive. This flexibility helps me communicate effectively across different contexts and audiences.