‘Becoming an international author has been a dream that once felt far away’

In a journey that beautifully blends perseverance, passion, and purpose, Aryan Sharma, an alumnus of Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Gurugram has transformed rejection into recognition by becoming an internationally published author with Taylor and Francis (Routledge)—one of the world’s most esteemed academic publishers. His achievement stands as a shining example of how resilience and mentorship can turn setbacks into stepping stones. In this candid conversation, Aryan shares the story behind his success, his early struggles in research, and how faith in hard work, guidance from mentors, and a never-give-up attitude shaped his journey from a hesitant beginner to a global achiever.Read edited excerpts:

Congratulations on your incredible achievement! Becoming an international author is no small feat. How does it feel to see your work published globally?

Thank you so much! Honestly, it feels surreal. Becoming an international author has been a dream that once felt far away. Seeing my name under a global publisher like Taylor and Francis fills me with gratitude and humility. It’s a reminder that hard work and perseverance truly pay off, even when the journey isn’t smooth.

Tell us about how your journey in research began.

Aryan: My research journey started at Apeejay Stya University under the guidance of Dr. Akanksha Singh. I still remember her words in class: “Just start by yourself, Aryan. I’ll help you.” That single sentence changed everything. I was hesitant initially, but her encouragement gave me the confidence to write my first book chapter on Artificial Intelligence. That’s where it all began.

What were some of your early milestones in this journey?

The first big step was publishing my research paper titled “Ethical Considerations in AI-Driven Financial Decision Making.” Later, I co-authored a book chapter, “Redefining the Automation Narrative: Strategies for Mitigating Technological Unemployment and Promoting Economic Resilience.” These projects taught me the importance of discipline, curiosity, and patience in research.

Success often comes with challenges. Was there a moment when things didn’t go as planned?

Absolutely. I once submitted another chapter that was rejected without any feedback. It was disheartening, but I remembered my professor’s words — “If your work is genuine, it will always find its place.” That kept me going. I treated rejection as redirection, not failure.

How did the opportunity with Taylor and Francis come about?

After that rejection, I continued improving my work while pursuing M.Com, ACCA, and working full-time as an Accounts Executive. Then one day, Dr. Akanksha Singh called me with a new opportunity. Along with Dr. Sunil Kumar Roy, we restructured and refined my chapter. A few weeks later, on the first day of Navratri, I received the message: “Aryan, it’s published.” That moment was unforgettable.

What message would you like to share with fellow students and aspiring researchers?

Believe in your work, even when no one else does. Rejection is not the end; it’s a step forward. Keep learning, stay patient, and trust your journey. Hard work, faith, and mentorship can turn even the smallest beginnings into international milestones.