Neeha Gupta

It is not everyday that you meet a young school girl who is a state level air pistol shooter, an author and an aspiring entrepreneur. Neeha Gupta of Jamnabai Narsee International School is all this and much more. An avid reader since childhood, she has authored a science fiction book titled ‘Different’. It is an aspiring novel that shows how the youth can make a difference if they’re engaged and active. What’s more! This exceptional girl has pledged the accrued sales proceeds of her book to charity. She has also represented Maharashtra in national level Table Tennis competitions. Besides making a mark in other domains, she is a bright student who excelled in her IGCSE exams and topped her school by scoring 8 A* in all the 8 subjects that she took. She plans to pursue IB level from the same school. Other career options aside, this talented young girl plans to pursue air pistol shooting for sure and aims to win an Olympic medal for India. Let’s learn more about this young winner’s study techniques and learn some success mantras from her!

Neeha Gupta, Jamnabai Narsee International School

It is said that behind every successful student stands a teacher. How did your teachers and parents help you in your preparation for the exams?

>>   My teachers and parents have been instrumental in helping me achieve my results. I always approached my teachers for the smallest of doubts, or if I wanted feedback on any work and they were readily available to help. My parents also supported me greatly in terms of giving me privacy, good food, and just ensuring that I’m in a good mood before my exams.

What is your least favourite subject? And how do you manage it?

>>   I don’t have a least favourite subject per se, but I didn’t have a liking for maths at that time. It’s not that the content was hard, just that I had a wrong mindset while approaching the subject. Hence, I started practicing a lot of maths, more than other subjects, and kept telling myself that I was good at it. As I did more practice, and got results, my confidence kept increasing!

Little things make a big difference. Can you share some simple study techniques and tips that you followed?

>>   Well, hands down, the most crucial thing for me was the syllabus and past papers. As long as I was satisfied that I knew everything that we needed to, I would be confident before walking into the exam. For each subject, I dowloaded the syllabus, and ensured that each pointer is checked by me . I made my own notes, compiling the syllabus and textbook, and revised them regularly.Then, after doing past papers, always check the mark scheme on your own, mark yourself, and ask your teacher where you went wrong in terms of concepts. Really, each student has their own style, but I found this to be great for me.

A good mood is essential for good marks. Ironically exam season is the time when you don’t have time to uplift your mood, but you need it the most. What are your shortcuts to a good mood during the exam season?

>>   My brother! He is 4 years younger than me, and would often cheer me up if I felt bored or low. He’d just talk, lighten me up, and then I’d start again. Another thing is my breaks. They were very important to me. When I studied I studied, but during breaks, it was sacred that I watch television while eating food.

Most students forget what they have studied in just a few days. Any tips for improving the memory and ensuring better retain and recall?

>>   Well, this happens to everyone. You should say your pointers/notes out loud, as that may help you register them. Revise the same thing within 2/3 days, the repetition helps. And also, sometimes you just think you’ve forgotten , while it’s all really there and will come out when needed.

Many students find it hard to balance academics and co-curricular activities. And hence, they tend to sacrifice one for the sake of another. But an all-rounder like you can surely share some tips on how to keep a balance in life and keep learning new things?

>>   It’s important that you love what you do. If you love your extra curricular activities you will never be ‘too tired’ or ‘drained’ to go practice after studying. You will make time for it, and ensure that both the aspects of your life are active. So choose wisely!

Toppers recognise that well-being is very important for their academic and personal success. They know that being well is a key to doing well in life, and it helps them to perform to the best of their ability day in and day out. But then, many students ignore their health for the sake of studies? How do you take care of your physical and mental health?

>>   I’m probably not the best person to answer this question as I often get worked up over studies…but yes it is important that health comes before all and nothing trumps that.

Breaks are essential to ensure effective studying. What are your favourite break time activities?

>>   I’d often go to my shooting range and shoot to clear my mind, or play the drums. But as mentioned earlier, if it’s a meal break, I watch television.

There is an increase in the levels of stress and anxiety among teenagers. Any tips for dealing with negative emotions and ensuring that they don’t come in the way of your success march?

>>   At this age it’s impossible to not have any negative emotions or distractions, because they will exist. I realised that I can only do something about the things in my control, and whatever else happens, will happen anyways. Learn to channel that extra energy and time into a sport or another hobby instead of letting bad thoughts enter your head.

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?

>>   My friends are truly amazing. We often went on long calls during the boards helping each other with doubts, and met often to study together. And when we needed a break, it was easy to derail the conversation into non-academic subjects. I feel that the friends you choose are very crucial to your outlook on life, as they surround you all the time! So make sure to choose the right friends, those who will pull you up and keep you happy.

~  Priya Sarin
priya[at]thestudentsdigest.com

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