Student Achiever: ‘Curiosity and consistency shaped my scientific journey’

A Class X student from Apeejay School, Kharghar, secured a Silver Medal at the prestigious Homi Bhabha Bal Vaidnyanik Competition, successfully clearing the theory, practical, and interview stages. His Action Research Project on solid oxide electrolysis for green hydrogen highlighted strong research depth, analytical thinking, and innovation. He was also awarded a cash prize, and the school congratulates him on this achievement and wishes him continued success. Meet Daiwik Shetty.

In a candid interview, he shares what sparked his interest in Science, among other things.

Tell us about yourself. Your interests and hobbies.

I have a strong interest in Science and Math. I enjoy understanding how things work and solving challenging problems, which is what draws me most toward science. Apart from academics, I enjoy sketching, playing cricket, reading books, participating in Olympiads, and taking part in science competitions that help me expand my thinking.

What first sparked your interest in science, and how did that lead you to participate in the competition?

My interest started in Class V, when our Science teacher would go beyond the textbook and explain fascinating concepts. The classes made me realise that the subject was not was something to truly understand and explore. In Class VI, our school introduced us to the Dr Homi Bhabha Bal Vaidnyanik Competition. I decided to participate, and secured a Bronze medal. That experience motivated me to work harder and aim even higher and here I am.

Walk us through your preparation? What part did you find most challenging?

 Since I had already been participating in various science Olympiads and competitions, I was strong with the core concepts. However, the Homi Bhabha Competition also demands a wide range of factual knowledge. I focused on regular revision, solving questions, and understanding practical applications of Science. The most challenging part was the third stage, the Action Research Project, because I had to prepare and complete during my final exams. Managing both academics and the project at the same time was difficult, but it taught me discipline, time management, and consistency.

Your reaction that you had got a Silver.

Receiving the news was a very rewarding moment. I felt proud because it reflected the effort, discipline, and dedication I had put into my preparation. More than the medal itself, it gave me confidence in my abilities and encouraged me to take on bigger academic and scientific challenges.

Any particular concept during the competition that excited or inspired you the most.

I was especially excited by the experimental and application-based parts of the competition, where Science had to be understood beyond theory. Questions related to observation, logical reasoning, and practical interpretation were particularly interesting because they reflected how science works in real life.

 Who supported or motivated you the most during your journey?

My parents and teachers played the biggest role in supporting me throughout this journey. My parents constantly encouraged me to stay disciplined and focused. My teachers guided me academically, strengthened my concepts, and motivated me to keep improving.

The school provided strong academic support and created an environment that values academic excellence and participation in competitive exams. Their belief in my abilities gave me the confidence to perform well in the competition.