Isha Bhasin – AIR 3

Isha Bhasin, a humanities student from La Martiniere Girls’ College, scored 99% and secured AIR 3 in the ISC Class XII examinations. Her favourite subject in school was political science and she plans to pursue it in college as well. She gives the credit of her success to her parents and teachers who went out of their way to help her prepare.

Unlike some nerdy toppers, Isha believes that it’s very important to work hard but it’s equally important to cut yourself some slack and relax. A true advocate of the laughter therapy, she loves watching stand-up comedies and spending her break-time with her parents. In this interview with Priya Sarin, this young Champ gives you many simple and practical study tips. So let’s learn from the best!

School and parents play a pivotal role in an achiever’s success. How did your teachers and parents help you achieve this feat?
>>   My parents and teachers went out of their way to help me prepare. My teachers especially helped with regular tests and revisions and at the same time ensured we had our breaks. My parents on the other hand did their part by letting me handle my studies my way with zero pressure.

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?
>>   I never got off social media or my gadgets during my boards but I understand how it can be a distraction. For me, I didn’t deny myself anything which is probably why I felt the need to ensure I studied. I just killed the distraction by making my gadgets more of a regularity.

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?
>>   The only tip I’ll give my juniors is to do your own thing. Every person is different so what suits others won’t necessarily suit you. It’s very important to work hard but it’s equally important to cut yourself some slack and relax. Your mental well-being should always come before marks.

During the hectic exam season how do you manage your time, revisions, relaxation, sleep, etc.?
>>   I didn’t deny myself anything. If I wanted to sleep then I did. I did everything in moderation. That way I had no excuse when it came to my studies. I just took advantage of the hours when I was most productive and went easy on myself when I had to. Plus I surrounded myself with people who helped me keep a balance.

How do you handle long questions and essays in the exams?
>>   My teachers made us practice a lot with long answers and it’s always good to analyse and add your insight to it.

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?
>>   I have always been an average student and my parents put no pressure so I had the luxury of being mediocre, above average or just adequate. Plus I focused more on the work than on how I felt about it.

Though I am not good at organisation, I know that a clean, clutter-free and organised environment makes you more efficient and stress free. Do you agree? Why?
>>   I think it depends on the student. I personally feel being clutter-free is better and you save a lot of time but others may disagree.

Taking breaks while studying is very important. What are your favourite break-time activities and do you have any suggestions for your juniors?
>>   During my breaks, I watched a lot of stand-up comedies so I could laugh it out or I went out to eat or swim. Surprisingly, I spent most of my breaks with my parents.

Most students confuse studying hard as studying productively. Can you share any tips on improving the quality of studying rather than simply maximizing the quantity of studying?
>>   I think you should just do everything but in moderation. Give yourself time and if you want to relax just do. There’s no point studying when you’re mentally exhausted. Allow yourself some good times and don’t take bad grades too seriously. Learn to laugh it off.

In general happy people are healthy people, and healthy people are happy people. And happy and healthy people have a better shot at success. Do you agree? Why?
>>   I think in most cases, yes. My friends helped me out a lot when I was being cynical and pessimistic. Surround yourself with people who constantly encourage and laugh with you.

What are your favourite antidotes to exam stress and anxiety?
>>    Sleep and laughter.

Many students don’t know how to deal with disruptions and interruptions. They find it difficult to schedule and balance their time? Any suggestions on the same?
>>    I think if you’re easily distracted then it’s better to cut off the distraction and prioritise for the time being and indulge once in a while.

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?
>>    In my case my friends helped me out a lot be it with course material, 12 AM doubts or bad moods. They were all very focused and have done well too. I guess having positive people around you helps you grow and do you best.

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?
>>   I was one of those students too. But it’s better to focus on the work and recognise where you went wrong and improve on it. Just remind yourself that there’s nothing you can change.

Multitasking or doing many things at the same time has become a way of life for many teens, and even some tweens. Do you think multitasking works? Or do you believe monotasking is a better way to learn and succeed?
>>   Multitasking works but not for all people. I did cut down on some activities during my board preparation so I could completely focus on my studies. But it’s good to have different activities because it keeps you busy and leaves no room for distractions.

~ Priya Sarin
priya[at]thestudentsdigest.com

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