Scholar-Journalist of the Week: Lohri – An auspicious celebration at Apeejay School International

A Diploma Programme – I student at Apeejay School International – South Delhi, Aryan Roy Pal is a passionate learner. Often, he likes to research and pen down his thoughts on the subject of Biology. Besides, he also plays football and composes music. Some names he looks up to in the field of music are the celebrated American trumpeter, Louis Armstrong, American singer, Frank Sinatra, and Singer-Songwriter, John Lennon. Read on, as he shares more. Edited excerpts from the interview.

Please tell us about yourself.

Since childhood, I have been keen to learn Science. Gradually, the subject of Biology piqued my interest. After that, I began learning about human anatomy and am still adding to my knowledge every day. Alongside, I am also passionate about writing and creating stories for newspapers and magazines. At Apeejay too, we are taught to reflect upon our thoughts and opinions in everything we do. This activity has improved my writing skills manifold.

What themes do you like to write about?

I like to explore current affairs and recent events. Much of my writing also includes topics like Stem cell therapy. I often refer to research articles available on the Google Scholar as well.

What inspired you to pen down – Lohri – An auspicious celebration at Apeejay School International?

The Diploma Programme coordinator in our school, Ms Neha Sharma, informed me about the Scholar-Journalist segment and how we can write about themes that interest us. And so, I decided to pen down my thoughts on the Lohri celebrations held in the school. While putting it together, I learnt more about the significance of the festival. In addition to this, the school event added to my knowledge through an interesting PowerPoint presentation. We celebrated the festival even in our home and performed Pooja and sang songs. Later, ‘gur’ and sesame seeds were attributed to the fire.

Your career goal?

I dream to become a Biologist and contribute to the field of Human Anatomy. After school, I want to study it in the United Kingdom.  

Given your interest, can you share some mind-boggling facts about Human Anatomy?

Surely. Firstly, for half a billion years or so, our ancestors sprouted tails. Much later, when they evolved into primates, their tails helped them stay balanced. However, at present, we don’t have any use of a tail because we have evolved legs and feet. Secondly, researchers have discovered that humans and orangutans share approximately 97% of their DNA. Thirdly, the rat brain is smaller and less complex than the human brain but research has shown that the two are remarkably similar in structure and function. Both consist of a vast amount of highly connected neurons that are constantly talking to each other. And lastly, in human beings, earlobes have been found attached to the face for a very long time. It is disporting now but many people still have this problem.

Any writing tips you would like to share?

Writing is a creative process. It shouldn’t be forced. So, make sure that every time you sit to write something, you add your perspective to it.