Topping Grade 10 – ICSE, Trishikha Kiran Rao, Ekya School JP Nagar
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Trishikha Kiran Rao is our second topper in Grade 10 – ICSE, Ekya School JP Nagar with a centum in History and Civics. An all-rounder who has won several accolades in debates and elocutions has an interest in reading and classical dance. Trishika says that she was unable to believe that her hard work had paid off. In this blog, she shares her success story.
How does it feel to be a topper in Ekya?
I was in complete shock when I saw my results on the website. I had to constantly keep checking to see if it was my profile! There’s this unique feeling you get when you realize that your months of hard work actually did pay off, and there are absolutely no words to describe that. One of my biggest dreams had come true.
2. Did you have a fixed pattern of study? How did you prepare for the exam?
I didn’t have any fixed pattern to study, but I did make a lot of notes about each chapter in subjects like history, physics, and geography. Making my own notes meant I had to write down all important points on my own and that for me was the best way to remember. I would also use simple acronyms and references to remember formulae because firstly they’re easy and secondly they’re fun! But overall I didn’t resort to the mainstream methods of studying. Because I am not the kind of person who can sit in one place and study for hours together. I would study for 30-40 minutes and take a 10-minute break. I discovered that this way I was able to grasp a lot more as the breaks gave me a breather and helped me to stay calm. Since we had been studying and writing exams on the same portions for the past 1 year, it made revising right before a lot easier.
3. Do solving old question papers help?
Most definitely it did. I solved both practice papers and board papers of previous years. This combination really gave me a chance to cover many kinds of questions, preparing me for absolutely anything. Solving these papers also helped me practice timing my responses and therefore came closest to the real exam experience.
4. What was your day like during the study holidays?
The study holidays were blessings as I got a chance to get my doubts cleared individually with my teachers. Other than that, it gave me time to settle into a routine, as I neared the exam date. I more or less had a rough schedule. Mornings I would revise about 2 or 3 subjects. Either by reading or by telling someone about it (as that’s an easy way for me to remember). In the afternoons I would focus only on the parts I found difficult or that I needed more practice. I would also clear my doubts then. And evenings I would solve many question papers.
5. What was your coping mechanism during the exams?
The few months before my exams were stressful and the pressure was definitely high, and in those moments giving up seemed like a very likely option. I kept reminding myself that nothing comes easy and if I wanted anything I had to work for it, this is just the beginning of the challenges in my life and I knew I needed to ace this. My parents helped me by constantly motivating. Apart from that, I ensured that I maintained a proper routine. I got a good nights sleep, which is much-needed to recharge the brain to be able to properly focus and study. During my exams, now and then I would start panicking about the next paper, and my mother would tell me that panicking and studying is absolutely no good. She would help me calm down and that just made things a lot easier and helped me score better.
6. What was your stress-buster?
Listening to music was my main stress buster. It has always calmed me down. And I think it’s really important to have something to do to relieve the stress because only when you’re calm can you retain everything that you study. Apart from that, I would take 15-minute power naps which proved to be far more effective than I assumed. Cooking and dancing also did wonders as stress busters.
7. What was the highlight of your success?
This entire experience has taught me some very important lessons, but more importantly, it instilled a lot of confidence in me. This is the first big test of my life and being able to do well has given my self-belief a major boost. It has also shown me that there is nothing that cannot be done with hard work, passion, and a desire to succeed.
8. In the age of digital distractions, did you have to stay away from gadgets for the month,
My gadget usage definitely minimized during my entire grade 10, but I definitely did use it for study purposes. I got my practice papers, used BlueJ to prepare for computers, and so on. it’s easy to get distracted by the internet with social media and other things, which is why I had to draw a line and be careful not to cross it. It’s definitely hard but I guess it was worth it.
9. How did Ekya help in your preparation for the Boards?
I have been very lucky in this aspect. I had the most amazing support system at Ekya. I have had the privilege to learn from some brilliant teachers who have coached me and taught me well. They actually took out a lot of time to clear all my doubts and take extra classes, which is something I’ll never forget. Our teachers even made many extra papers for us to solve. The amount of faith they’ve had in me and the way they’ve supported and guided me throughout my entire time at Ekya is truly unforgettable and I will always be grateful for everything they’ve done.
10. The success mantra that you want to share with other students?
Nobody is born with more knowledge or a higher IQ than the others. We all come into the world as equals. What we achieve in our lives and how successful we become is solely based on our hard work, determination and most importantly our desire to succeed. You need to want something badly enough to be willing to put your life and soul into attaining it, and that is my success mantra as taught by my parents. In the challenge of these exams, I saw an opportunity to prove myself and I did everything to make good use of it.
11. Other achievements if any?
This year has been amazing for me because not one but two of my biggest dreams were fulfilled. I had the privilege of winning 1st place along with my friend prasidh in the Karnataka ICSE schools association literary debate competition. We then went on to represent Karnataka at the nationals in Hyderabad where we won the first runner-up.
12. What are your best memories from School?
The best part about my school was that we weren’t just a bunch of students learning from teachers, but we were more like a family. Each class had special meaning, and the bond we each shared with our teachers is a very rare one. Amongst my best memories were, talking about anything and everything during lunch breaks, our infamous P. E periods, those unforgettable school trips, and obviously the last minute revision just before the exam. My four years at Ekya may not have been very long, but they’ve been the best 4 years of my life. I’ve laughed, learned, loved, grown and most importantly discovered a new piece of myself every day.
More stories from Ekya:
- Topping Grade 12 CBSE Science – Manali Tanna, Ekya School ITPL
- Topping Grade 10 ICSE – Ananya Milak, Ekya School JP Nagar
- Topping Grade 12 CBSE Science – Isha Abhijit Joshi, Ekya School ITPL
- Sudeeptha Benya – Grade 12 Commerce Topper with 95%
- Hard Work Does Pay Off – Poem by Ms. Sribaghya S, Ekya School BTM Layout
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Ekya / April 03, 2024
The Power of Learning with Intent: A Guide to Purposeful Education
In a world brimming with information, the art of learning has evolved beyond the mere acquisition of facts. Learning with intent, a deliberate approach to education emphasises quality over quantity, depth over breadth, and purpose over passive absorption. It’s about cultivating a mindset that transforms knowledge into meaningful action and empowers individuals to navigate the complexities of the modern age effectively.
At its core, learning with intent involves setting clear objectives and actively engaging with the subject matter. Whether exploring a new language, delving into scientific principles, or honing a creative skill, intentionality infuses each learning endeavour with purpose and direction. As Albert Einstein aptly said, "The only source of knowledge is experience." This quote amplifies the importance of active participation and hands-on learning, highlighting that true understanding arises from deliberate engagement with the material.
Furthermore, engaging actively with the material is paramount. Embrace challenges and embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth. This proactive approach not only deepens your understanding but also cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in any field.
Moreover, learning with intent emphasises relevance and applicability. Seek out opportunities to apply newfound knowledge in real-world scenarios, bridging the gap between theory and practice. By contextualising learning within your personal or professional sphere, you enhance its significance and utility, making it more likely to stick.
In conclusion, learning with intent is a transformative approach that transcends traditional notions of education. By setting clear objectives, engaging actively, prioritising relevance, and fostering a growth mindset, individuals can harness the full potential of learning to achieve their goals and thrive in an ever-changing world. So, embark on your learning journey with purpose, and let each lesson propel you towards a brighter, more fulfilling future.
By Sweta Pradeep Rao
Senior English Educator
Ekya School JP Nagar
Ekya / April 02, 2024
Gadget-free Summer Break
With summer vacation around, I urge parents to explore various ways to facilitate children to make healthy choices during their vacation time.
Last week, when we asked our Early Years to visualise their characters and create a story, most of them came up with stories about ghosts and monsters attacking others. When we had conversations about what gave them this idea, we understood that these story ideas emanated from their online games. While gaming per se develops specific skills and requires focus, it also stifles the imagination of young children. Since it is visually appealing, children tend to remember those images in their heads all the time.
I often see parents providing very young children (1 year to 3 year olds) with gadgets as the means to keep children engaged and entertained. I see children watching phones in the waiting areas of clinics, hospitals, school lobbies and banks.
This brings us to a fundamental question “ Should children be engaged by parents all the time?” Not necessarily. What is likely to happen if children were not handed over gadgets at the waiting lounges? What would they do? Some of them may cry, some may throw a loud tantrum, and some may crib. If parents show resilience and allow children to settle down themselves, they will soon find ways to keep themselves engaged. Likewise, during summer vacation. What if this is a “no gadget” vacation and parents do not take up the responsibility to engage their children? What would children do? How can parents show resilience here and facilitate children to make healthy choices? I leave the readers with this thought for this summer vacation.
Mathangi R,
Head of School,
Ekya NICE Road.
Ekya / April 02, 2024
The Eye of the Storm
In the hushed embrace of an Indian evening, our journey began, a symphony of anticipation orchestrated by the hum of jet engines and the flutter of boarding passes. The promise of adventure beckoned from distant shores as we boarded our flight bound for the United Kingdom, our hearts aflutter with dreams of far-off lands and newfound horizons. But as we soared through the velvet sky, a foreboding shadow loomed on the horizon, a harbinger of the chaos that was soon to unfold. In the blink of an eye, the tranquil serenity of our airborne sanctuary was shattered by a deafening crack, a burst of purple lightning that danced across the heavens with an otherworldly fervour. The air crackled with electricity as the plane shuddered beneath the force of the storm, its metal frame quivering in defiance against the tempestuous onslaught. And then, in a heart-stopping moment of sheer terror, the heavens unleashed their fury upon us, casting our fragile vessel into a maelstrom of chaos and uncertainty. The sky darkened to a shade of ominous charcoal as the winds howled with a primal ferocity, tearing at the wings of our faltering craft with savage intent. The cabin was awash with panicked cries and frantic prayers as we clung to our seats with white-knuckled desperation, each passing moment stretching into eternity.
And then, as if mocking our feeble attempts at control, the plane tilted almost 180 degrees, its nose plummeting towards the earth with a sickening lurch. Time seemed to stand still as we hurtled towards the ground, our fate hanging in the balance as the world spun wildly out of control. But just when all hope seemed lost, a glimmer of salvation emerged from the chaos, a beacon of light amidst the encroaching darkness. With a mighty roar, the engines surged to life once more, their thunderous symphony drowning out the cacophony of the storm as we clawed our way back from the brink of oblivion. As the storm clouds parted and the sun cast its golden rays upon the horizon, we emerged battered but unbroken, our spirits buoyed by the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. And though our journey had been fraught with peril and uncertainty, we emerged from the crucible of the skies stronger and more resilient than ever before. For in the crucible of adversity, we discovered the true measure of our strength, our courage, and our unwavering determination to defy the odds and chart our course through the tempestuous seas of life. As we touched down on solid ground once more, I couldn't help but marvel at the beauty of the world around us, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human soul.
Arjun Narasimhan Kuppuswamy
Grade 8C
WEP 2019 – Experience/Learning – Nithila Ganapathy, Grade 11
On the first day, we started with getting to know the place and how things worked at the store. Then, we were asked to arrange books according to their genre in the respective shelves. It was to be arranged in ascending order of the author's last name. We had to take each book out, dust them and then put them back in place in order.
At first, it was tiresome because none of us were really used to physical work. As the days went by, we got accustomed to the place and the nature of work. Along with stacking books in the racks, we were to keep the place clean and keep a record of books by creating an inventory based on genres. We did the inventory during the last few days of our work. We also took care of the store and duties such as; open the shop once we reached, set the store before it was officially open for the day and do some minimum cleaning.
After a few hours, customers would come in and buy/rent books. Communicating with people was a very different experience and fun, indeed. We would help people pick up books of their choice. We were also involved in sales. We billed the books and calculated the respective discounts. It was altogether a new experience as in our daily life, we usually wouldn’t be practicing selling.
We took regular breaks in between to refresh ourselves. During the small breaks, we bought some fresh juice or an extra bottle of water. Since it was summer, it was important to keep ourselves well hydrated. I learned how to take care of myself.
For transportation, I traveled by bus regularly, which was the easiest mode of commute. I learned how to travel by myself and be independent. Overall, it was an eventful experience, with a lot of learning such as; How to deal with people in public, how to be responsible, etc. Since communication wasn’t my best quality, I was a little nervous to talk to people, but I got over it after a few days of work.
This internship served as a great learning platform for me and I indeed learned things that I thought would not possible to learn within a span of just four weeks. I would like to thank WEP and my school for this wonderful opportunity. This program really taught me the kind of skills I would use later in my life.
More stories from Ekya:
Summer Story of Ridha Manoj, Grade 2, Ekya School JP Nagar – My Summer Vacation to Mumbai/Andaman
Travel to Andaman felt a little confusing. It felt like I was traveling away from my country but to my country. The first peep from the flight just before landing reminded me of one of my favorite movies - Moana. The islands, the shores, the greenery, and the sand – I was thrilled to land and make my way to the beaches.
Andaman was much more than what I expected. On the first day, we went to the Cellular Jail. Mom and Dad were telling me about the cruelty our freedom fighters faced in those small single bed sized cells. I had so many questions in my mind while we walked through the cells, and my mother held my hand and walked beside. Her silence kept me puzzled if I should have asked anything or not. Then came the cell of Veer Savarkarji. My mother removed her footwear, seeing her do that I did the same and walked inside. We shut our eyes and paid a two-minute silence, then did a Martyr Salute and walked out. It was very sad a feeling that I went through.
Next day was fun, as we approached the cruise that was taking us to the Havelock island. The next three days I spent exploring the beaches of the island. I also made friends with a little puppy there and named it Dash.
Following day, we explored another island – Baratang. Mom and dad were discussing the night before about being taken in the convoy through a tribal reserve. I overheard them talk about a tribal group called the Jarawas, but did not ask much. When I woke up early the next morning and drove to a point where all the cars collected to begin the first convoy. 30 cars went in a line, to make sure that we or the tribals did not cause any harm to each other. For the first 20 mins, I looked through the bushes but found no one. Then came an excited shout from my mother – There they are!
When I looked up there was a lady who had stopped the car in front of ours and was demanding something. The driver asked us to keep food packets and our phones aside. Next was our turn, she stopped our car and asked our driver in sign language to give something to eat. He politely refused, but she was still aggressive. My heart skipped a beat and I held tightly held my father’s hand. The tribal lady quickly looked into the car and then let us go. Phew! Right after our car moved a little ahead I noticed that behind her stood a gang of young boys dressed in red bands across the body holding spears. It was quite scary.
As we drove further, we noticed a few more Jarawa kids sitting on the cornerstone of the roads, smiling and waving at the cars that drove past. Then a family of mamma, dada and two children sitting by the side of the road and peeling the garlic and many more small groups like these. They didn’t seem that scary anymore. They were different, but they gave me a feeling that they are probably much friendlier than what we saw. We then reached an area of Mangroves which headed to a 3 km trek to Limestones Caves. Mamma had told me about The Stalactites and the Stalagmites. After which, I got the opportunity to see volcanoes…. Haha, don’t get worried. They were not active. The mud volcanoes of Andaman!
The last day of our vacation in Andaman we explored yet another island – The Ross Island. It was the British Capital of Andaman islands. Only the Ruins remains now. So eerie it was to see how the roots of the trees had engulfed the buildings. The market, the church, the houses now remain swallowed by the trees.
I came back with lots of new learnings, new experiences and lots and lots of shells to make my new terrarium."
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