Achievements
‘I want to save lives through my scientific breakthroughs’
A young brilliant achiever shares that her biggest takeaway from the Homi Bhabha competition was to always keep an open mind
Her brilliant mind knows no limits. By showcasing her prodigious talent she made the cut to the top 35 students at the NSEB-INBO 2023-24 exam out of 29,795 students enrolled in India. Meet Lavanya Chandel who appeared in her class XII exam this year from Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg and now aspires to do wonders in the field of medicine.
Read edited excerpts here.
Tell us about the Homi Bhabha competition.
The Homi Bhabha competition aims to select the brightest minds in India to represent the country at an international level. It consists of three stages: The first two are purely theoretical, while the final stage is held at the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE) camp.
What did you present there?
The camp focused on Biology, and I didn’t have to present anything. Our mornings were filled with problem-solving sessions led by professors from various universities, and in the evenings, we had practical sessions. Ultimately, the Indian team for the IBO was selected based on two theoretical exams and four practical exams.
How was your experience at the camp?
My experience at the camp was amazing. I had the opportunity to interact with some of the brightest minds of my age in the field of Biology, as well as professors from across India. I got the opportunity to perform practicals on the theories I had only read earlier. My biggest takeaway from the camp was to always keep my mind open to new research and to continuously ask questions.
Who inspired you to present your paper in the camp?
My school teachers, and especially my parents, encouraged me to participate in competitions beyond our regular tests. They provided thorough guidance and extra resources to strengthen my understanding. They provided a supportive environment and significantly boosted my confidence and readiness for the exam.
My parents, especially my father, were incredibly supportive in helping me prepare. Their constant encouragement and belief in my abilities were instrumental in keeping me focused and confident throughout the preparation process.
What are your goals and ambitions?
My goal is to get into medicine and become a doctor.
Which scientific discovery or invention does the world need most?
We need to combat antibiotic resistance. A scientific discovery or invention that effectively addresses antibiotic resistance — whether through new antibiotics, alternative treatments, or innovative preventive measures, could save countless lives and safeguard public health. Another major field of study would be research surrounding cancer as it is one of the fastest growing ailments in the world.
