Scholar-Journalist of the Week: Why I dream of becoming a doctor

Be it art, music or writing, the class 6 student at Apeejay School Saket, Swastik Sahu is keen to learn about everything. A talented Indian classical vocalist, who is also part of the school choir, he  dreams to be a successful doctor to address the pain and suffering of people of his country. In an interview, Swastik explains:

Your piece – ‘Why I dream of becoming a doctor’ has received the maximum hits on the website. Who inspired you to write it?

My father, Dr Sanat Kumar Sahu is a Senior Medical Officer in the Medical and Health Centre at the Delhi High Court. I love to discuss with my father different medical cases and its treatments, and so my interest has developed in medicine. My dad is a general physician and I too want to become one, just like him.

Do you like to read books?

Yes, very much. The ‘Harry Potter’ series and its magical world attracts me. My other favourite books are ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’, the American fiction book series by author and cartoonist Jeff Kinney and ‘Swami and Friends’ by author R. K. Narayan. I also like to read novels by Ruskin Bond.

What extracurricular activities do you like to be part of?

I am currently learning Indian classical music. Apart from that, I am also a sketch artist. I have received several accolades for my music and sketches in several inter-school competitions.

Do you practice writing on a daily basis?

I am an avid reader. To improve my knowledge of the English language, I prepare ‘vocabulary cards’ in my chapters as advised by my English teacher in school. I underline difficult words and find their meaning. Going forward, I also want to try and write some funny stories.

Your writing tips for fellow students?

Improve your word power through everyday reading. As you pen down your thoughts for any piece, revise it many times till you feel satisfied with the draft.