Scholar-Journalist of the Week: What is failure?

A class 7 student of Apeejay School, Model Town in Jalandhar, Ashriya Gupta believes that hard work is the pathway to success. The talented young girl is an avid reader who is often hooked onto adventure or mystery-based books. Her philosophy is clear, “Do not bother about things you cannot change and live life to the fullest.” Read on, edited excerpts from her interview.

When did you develop the interest to write?

I think it all began in class 3. Our teachers often gave us thought-provoking subjects to write on. And now, I love to write. Besides, Apeejay Newsroom has given me the platform and necessary motivation to have my work published. I feel that this opportunity has contributed to improving my creative writing talent. Therefore, I make it a point to pen down a page a day.

Do you also write for yourself? What themes do you like to pick?

Yes. I maintain a diary and jot down the important happenings of the week. It is mostly about inspiration, productivity, etc. I love ideas that inspire and drive one towards self-growth since I strongly believe that thoughts make us. They shape what we become.

Tell us more about your write up – What is failure? What inspired you?

A friend near to my home who is an excellent student and secures first position in every field. However, recently, she did not score well in a particular test. So, she was quite de-motivated. She shared her story with me, when I advised her to do her best and not lose her confidence on the basis of a single setback. Borrowing from this instance, my write-up came into being. It discusses why one should not let failure stop their growth.  

Your career ambition?

I love astronomy – Outer Space truly intrigues me! So, I hope to research in the said domain.

Your role model?

Undoubtedly, it is Kalpana Chawla. The most splendid fact that I have read about her is that she had the urge to reach the Space from the very beginning.