Aanandi Arjun – AIR 3
Aanandi Arjun of La Martiniere Girls’ College scored 99% and secured AIR 3 in the ISC (Class XII) board examinations. Apart from studying, this young girl loves to read and listen to music. She owes her success to her teachers and parents who acted as a friend and guide at all times. The school principal, Mrs. A. Dass lays great emphasis on all-round development of her students so that they get the best and give their utmost.
Anandi believes that perseverance and sincerity are the best way to overcome any weaknesses. And like a true topper, she is quite good at the art of identifying her stress-triggers and ultimately combating them. In this interview with Priya Sarin, she offers some very effective and practical study tips to help you ace your exams. Let’s pay heed to this young Champ!
School and parents play a pivotal role in an achiever’s success. How did your teachers and parents help you achieve this feat?
>> Parents and teachers form the support systems at our homes and in school – two places where we spend most of our time. My parents were always supportive of any initiative I took, giving me advice on how to balance my interests with the requirements of the practical world. The teachers at school were the perfect example of being true to one’s purpose, acting as a friend and guide at all times. When a person’s emotional backing is this strong, it gives them the thrust to focus on their work, thus contributing to an individual’s success.
Are you the master of your gadgets or their slave? In this digital age, how do you practise self-control when it comes to gadgets?
>> There is no escaping the advent of technology. Rather than choosing between the master/slave equation, make technology your guide. Use it to research beyond the textbook or to give yourself a break when external pressures get too much. Using it productively is easier than most people believe, just be conscious of what you’re doing and check yourself when you feel you’re not going in the right direction.
Change your attitude, and know that there’s always someone who knows more than you, so learn from them rather than seeing them as adversaries.
Achievers have a ‘growth mindset’ which means that a person recognises that abilities are not fixed, but developed through practice. Do you think that this is the key behind their success? Any tips for your juniors to follow your lead?
>> It is definitely important to believe in yourself and not belittle yourself for your weaknesses. Don’t think too much about how someone is better than you at a particular task, but just try and grow on your own skills and talents – it’ll be much more productive than being miserable about the same situation. Change your attitude, and know that there’s always someone who knows more than you, so learn from them rather than seeing them as adversaries.
During the hectic exam season how do you manage your time, revisions, relaxation, sleep, etc.?
>> Don’t go for a template to manage your studies and co-curriculars. Find your own rhythm, see when you’re most productive and give yourself adequate breaks to rejuvenate your mind.
… make sure you understand yourself. If you know your weaknesses and strengths, you’ll be alright.
In my interactions with students as an author, I found that some students are overconfident while others are under-confident. But toppers know how to maintain optimum confidence. How did you ensure that you stayed motivated and confident?
>> Again, make sure you understand yourself. If you know your weaknesses and strengths, you’ll be alright. Acknowledge your merit and let it grow. Whatever your weak points are, perseverance and sincerity will sail your ship through.
Taking breaks while studying is very important. What are your favourite break-time activities and do you have any suggestions for your juniors?
>> I loved to read and listen to music, so I always used them to relax myself. See what you like, and pursue it to realise the stress.
What are your favourite antidotes to exam stress and anxiety?
>> Most people understand their stress-triggers. Analyse and see what situations make you uncomfortable or worried, and try and find methods to diffuse the situation. Stress can never help. Make sure you’re aware of what’s going on around you to avoid surprises. For me, I loved to read, listen to music or interact with my family to give myself adequate break.
Don’t be worried about being part of the ‘cool’ crowd – look for people that match your wavelength, and it’ll make things a lot easier.
Your friends influence your behaviour. Do you agree? If yes, how do you capitalise on it so that it has a positive effect on your performance? If your answer is no, how do you remain uninfluenced in this connected world?
>> A good peer group can make all the difference. Associate with people who know how to balance between work and fun. Don’t be worried about being part of the ‘cool’ crowd – look for people that match your wavelength, and it’ll make things a lot easier.
Many students worry more about the exam they have given rather than focussing on the upcoming ones? Any tips to control such behaviour and remain motivated?
>> Don’t focus on examinations – past or upcoming. Focus on what you’re learning, because these exams will come and go but the knowledge will stay. Forget about the marks, life extends way beyond that. That being said, learn from your mistakes instead of cursing yourself for committing them. Understand the pattern of the exam, and prepare accordingly.
~ Priya Sarin
priya[at]thestudentsdigest.com
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