‘Biology stays at the endless frontier of human discovery’

She is fascinated by the world of biology and the intricacies that lie within the research area. Meet Ashmita Rudra, who passed out of Apeejay School, Kharghar in 2025. In a candid interview, she shares her enthusiastic streak in the field of biology and what fuels her passion.

What are you pursuing after school now?

After school, I am presently pursuing my undergrad degree in biotechnology. Additionally, I am also pursuing MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) as a hobby.

Share your favourite nostalgia from school?

There are so many memories that I cannot just jot them down. From things like tuning in to the latest gossip aired by our friends or the unexpected events caused by particular students to the everlasting memories created during our picnics, every memory is a cherished gem for me.

How were the teachers at school?

The school is a temple, and gurus are our Gods. Without their guidance, we students would have been nothing. Each one of the teachers has a different charisma, which also reflects in our personalities. They have shaped us and moulded us into who we are today. If anything, I will miss my teachers a lot when I am facing life alone.

What are the recent research trends in biology?

There is a lot of scope in research on biology. Take, for example, the CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) technology, which is a turning point in medicine and human health. Biology has a lot of potential at every age, because as long as humans exist, biology will be essential.

Which area of bio-technology is in today’s time?

Now I am only entering he vast world of biology. I have a lot to learn. Currently, most of the topics interest me, but I will understand my forte when I dive deeper into the subject.

How did you become interested in MMA?

Since childhood, I have had an affinity for contact sports. I have learnt karate as well as taekwondo and have won a lot of laurels in multiple competitions. I had gone into a break during my high school. I want to continue my hobby and want to develop it, so I chose MMA, which teaches each aspect of various fighting styles. It also helps me maintain discipline in life and teaches a valuable lesson that there is always someone better than me.

Do you see a bright future for MMA in India?

Yes, India has a very bright future for sports. Our famed sportspersons have brought back a lot of laurels home. Taking them as an inspiration, youngsters, including me, are motivated to enjoy sports and participate in competitions. Also, the government is taking a lot of initiative regarding the development of sports in India, aiming to create a brighter future for the next generation.

Any message for the school students?

Just give your best. The results are not in your hands. Whatever you get, you should not regret. Work hard to satisfy yourself, not anybody else. The happiness you receive at the end is the real reward.