Scholar-Journalist of the Week: Do we all belong to this world?

A class 12 Commerce student at Apeejay School, Noida, Adya Verma, likes to express herself through her writing. She is influenced by popular culture and also engages with TV dramas such as the Vampire Diaries and Gossip Girl. “These shows are too relatable, especially Gossip Girl. The concept of a high-school and how relationships are built in it is showcased very well.” Self-admittedly, Adya is a social butterfly in the school and why not? She is confident, charismatic and knows her mind. Read on, edited excerpts from her interview.

Are you excited about the new academic session in the school?

Yes. This is going to be the last year of my educational journey with Apeejay. I want to make the most of it and also perform well in the CBSE class 12 Board examinations.

Any extra-curricular activities that interest you?

I am an active participant at the school-level Model United Nations (MUN) conferences and debate competitions. Also, as part of a programme by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, I was recognised for my contribution the previous year.

How did the write-up ‘Do we all belong’ come about?

I wrote it during one of the Covid-19 imposed lockdowns. Those were uncertain and lonely times for me. I was home and had difficulty making friends in the school. So, I decided to jot down my feelings. Of course, from that time onwards, I have evolved.

Do you write often?

Yes. I have several drafts saved and I keep writing regularly. I am also working on a book and some other stories. I will get it published once it is finished. For my book, I am going for a theme based on ‘The Great Gatsby’. Mine is a story of a modern couple, who have relationship-based problems. And, the book is about self-realisation and self-discovery of an individual along with the journey one takes when someone else becomes a part of them. Personally, I feel that a person cannot look for happiness in somebody else. Self-love is linked to happiness. It is probably the only way a person can lead a holistic life.

Your hobbies?

I write fiction. Besides, History and Literature interest me. I am an avid reader too. I like to learn about different cultures and traditions. Off late, I have been adding to my knowledge about the Greek and Egyptian. One of the books I have been reading is ‘The Beautiful and the Damned: A Portrait of the New India’ by Siddhartha Deb.

Your ambition?

I am exploring the field of Data Analytics for my future as my parents own an Information Technology firm in Noida. Besides, I am also hoping to further my writing abilities and flair for language.

Some writing tips for your classmates?

Know what you write. Do not follow the crowd and pick topics that don’t interest you. Pen down what comes from within and maintain originality.