We asked some of the brightest folks from within the community to reflect back on their days in school and to share with us a story of when they learned a particularly important or impactful lesson. We’ve shared highlights below.

Danielle Ramos

Growing up, I was that kid—the straight-A student with a side of test anxiety so intense, I could’ve powered a small city. I’d study like my life depended on it, convinced that if I just memorized everything and got those perfect grades, I’d unlock the secret formula to success. Spoiler alert: it’s not that simple. I was so deep in the books, I’d cancel plans, ditch memorable events, and basically hermit myself away to cram for projects. My mom would casually suggest that I, you know, live a little. Take a break. Maybe breathe? But did I listen? Nope. (And now I wish I had—shoutout to Mom, you were right.) Read more>>

Nikita Magan

In high school, I learned a crucial lesson about perseverance and adaptability. Struggling with a challenging math class, I was frustrated by my inability to grasp the concepts. After a particularly tough test, I stayed after class to seek help from my teacher. She patiently explained the material in a new way, showing me that adapting my approach could lead to success. This experience taught me that perseverance isn’t just about pushing through difficulties; it’s about being open to new strategies and perspectives. This lesson has been vital in my journey, especially in launching Vedi Beauty, where adaptability and determination have helped me overcome obstacles and achieve my goals. Read more>>

Selva Chandraseakran Selvaraj

A Journey of Determination: Selva’s Path to Science In a small village named Chinnakarattupatty, located in southern India’s Tamil Nadu state, a young boy named Selva Chandrasekaran Selvaraj dreamed of a life beyond the fields his family had tended for generations. Born into a poor agricultural family, Selva’s future seemed predetermined – his parents expected him to find work as a helper in a nearby garment factory after finishing school. But Selva Chandrasekaran Selvaraj harbored a secret passion for science. Despite his struggles with English, he found himself captivated by the stories of great thinkers. Two figures, in particular, shaped his worldview: Periyar E.V. Ramasamy and Archimedes. Read more>>

Sesha Woodard

I was in tears! Yes. I was standing there crying because I didn’t feel encouraged or supported. The teacher that was yelling at me with a voice and tone that could pop a ballon by merely grazing it with a hand. I wasn’t even in kindergarten yet. It was daycare/pre-k. I remember her hair color, and the color of her shirt. My classmates and I were playing the game Twister and this teacher was overseeing us. In the game of Twister, directions of right and left are in fact important. I had no idea that progress toward knowing my right from left was a just cause for the response she dished out towards me- in this “learning” stage of my life. Read more>>