Student Achiever: ‘My sister is my biggest motivator’

This 12-year-old Class VIII student from Mercury House at Apeejay School, Saket, has a keen interest in cycling and calligraphy. He recently took part in the Science Olympiad, inspired by a strong passion for the subject and a clear goal of becoming a successful doctor in the future. Meet Ariz Ali. In a candid interview, he talks about the challenges he faced and what kept him motivated, among other things.

How did you prepare for the competition?

I studied all the chapters and revised concepts and ideas of science rather than just copying and pasting them in my brain. With my motivation and discipline, I studied all the chapters to strengthen my concepts. With my quick study methods of writing important notes and understanding concepts, I was able to prepare for the exam.

Which topic did you find most challenging, and how did you handle it?

The topic that I found the most challenging and struggled with was the chapter on Time And Motion as it required Math and velocities. But I practised it over and over and took help from my elder sister to tackle it.

What kept you motivated during your preparation?

It was my dream to become a doctor. Another major motivator is my sister, who is brilliant in studies. I was motivated by her to continue my preparation without any fear of failure.

How did you feel after winning the Gold and securing first rank?

When I heard that I had won a gold medal and secured first rank in Science, I felt an overwhelming sense of happiness. It was a moment of deep pride, as my efforts and aspirations seemed to come together. A wave of joy and accomplishment washed over me, and I found it difficult to fully express how much the achievement meant to me.

What advice would you give to other students aiming for Olympiads?

For students aiming to participate in Olympiads, it is important not to fear failure. No one achieves perfection or high scores on the first attempt, and setbacks are a natural part of the journey. While the fear of failing can feel overwhelming, it also marks the beginning of growth and improvement. Every achievement is built on lessons learned through mistakes. Take the first step with confidence, challenge yourself, and aim high. Success follows those who are willing to learn from failure and keep moving forward.

What kind of support did you get from the school teachers?

I received strong support from my school teachers, for which I remain deeply grateful. They helped strengthen my preparation by clearing doubts, answering questions, and explaining difficult concepts with clarity. Beyond academics, some teachers offered moral support and guided me in managing pressure and staying focused. Their encouragement and guidance played a meaningful role in shaping my confidence, improving my understanding, and positively influencing my overall preparation for the exam.