‘This student shows that rhythm and rigour can coexist’

Meet Vaishnavi Chaudhary, Apeejay’s IB School, Apeejay School International, Panchsheel Park,  Diploma Programme (DP) topper, who pairs scientific curiosity with creative flair. Bound for biomedical engineering, she navigated a demanding higher-level load, back‑to‑back exam days, and a new science syllabus with discipline, sleep, and strategy. Off the academic field, she paints, plays piano, and writes, drawing energy from art, family support, and a school community she calls a ‘second family’.     

In a candid interview, she talks about her journey..

How did it feel to learn you’d topped the batch?

Equal parts happiness and relief! Some papers were tougher, and grade boundaries felt unpredictable, so seeing that effort translate into results was incredibly reassuring. 

Which subjects stressed you the most and why? 

Chemistry and Mathematics, both at a higher level. My exam timetable was brutal: Bio + Economics on one day; Chemistry and Math another, and with no breaks that week! This year, the Sciences saw a syllabus and paper‑pattern change, so past papers alone weren’t enough. For me, the concept mastery mattered.   

Walk us through how you managed academic pressure.

Sleep — not all‑nighters! When you’re exhausted, retention drops. I protected rest, ate well, and studied to IB criteria: Understand what each paper asks. Build core concepts first, then level up to exam‑style questions. Consistent classwork and unit tests kept me in ‘exam mode’ throughout the two DP years. I treated classroom topics and homework as early exam prep. Our teachers design work to mirror IB demands, and staying current means fewer ‘unknowns’ later. Difficulty ramps each year; if you keep pace from Day 1, revision season is refinement, not rescue.   

Tell us about your Theory of Knowledge and Extended Essay journey.

TOK was initially abstract, but understanding the criteria and discussing ideas with my teacher made it clear. My essay examined fragility versus antifragility of knowledge in the Arts and Social Sciences, using economics as an example. The Extended Essay demanded rigorous research, credible sources, and structured writing skills that strengthened my analytical thinking and prepared me well for university-level work.

What role did family and teachers play in your success?

They all collectively played a massive role. For me, short breaks, mini‑vacations, and even staycations helped me reset. My mother was with me through the journey, and school friends, along with teachers, became a second family. Teacher guidance, especially on criteri,a was priceless. 

What’s next?

My top choices are the University of Sydney and UNSW (University of New South Wales) for a February 2026 intake. I’ve already received about a 20% tuition award (Sydney Scholars). I’m applying for additional merit and India‑applicant scholarships, some can stack (for instance, 20% to  50%), while a 100% award would stand alone.