Question 1: Greetings,could you please introduce yourself?
Answer: Hello, I am Nayia Chauhan. I have completed my undergraduate course in BSc. Life Sciences from Maitreyi College in 2023. Currently I am pursuing my masters in Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from University of Delhi, South campus.
Question 2: How did you develop your interest in Life Sciences?
Answer: After completing my 12th grade education, I focused on science subjects, particularly chemistry and biology. However, upon reaching this juncture, I found myself at a crossroads, unsure of which path to take for my undergraduate studies. My inclination towards biology was clear, but within that realm, I found myself confused between botany and zoology. Recognizing my interest in both, I ultimately decided to pursue life sciences as my major. This choice allows me to delve into both botany and zoology. Additionally, I understand the inseparable link between biology and chemistry. Therefore, I recognize the importance of including chemistry in my academic pursuits to fully comprehend the intricacies of biological systems.
Question 3: You have done a lot of research work on different topics. So how did you get your first opportunity in this field and how was your experience?
Answer: In my second year of college, I participated in a two-month summer internship project at Maitreyi College under the guidance of Dr. Rama Sisodia ma’am and Dr. Shweta ma’am from the botany department. They were incredibly supportive mentors, guiding us through the research process with patience and clarity. With a personal interest in research but unsure of where to start, I approached Rama ma’am with a previously written article on the Importance of Agricultural Genetics, which I had presented at Equinox 2021. With her permission, I initiated a summer project with her, forming a team of four girls and two mentors. Our project, titled "Efficacy of Selected Seed Priming Agents," focused on testing the effectiveness of priming agents on seed germination under salinity stress. Grateful for the opportunity, we successfully conducted the project and Rama ma’am helped publish our paper in international journals.
Question 4: You have presented before several national and international conferences, how did you develop your public speaking skills?
Answer: Despite being an extreme introvert, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone upon joining college after a year and a half of being at home due to the COVID pandemic. I gradually began interacting with others, attending conferences, and even presenting my own research. Recognizing the importance of communication skills, I saw presenting as an opportunity for personal growth. I presented individually on the topic of agricultural genetics at one conference and participated with my group in defending our research at another conference. These experiences have helped me develop my communication skills and broaden my horizons.
Question 5: How did you manage your time effectively while doing so well in the extracurricular activities in different conferences and research?
Answer: Effective time management is crucial for success. I learned this skill during my time at Maitreyi College. For example, I utilised my summer break to complete a summer internship and worked on research papers and articles during my free time. Additionally, I attended online conferences and completed additional courses in the evenings, showcasing my ability to balance multiple commitments efficiently.
Question 6: How do you think that enrolling in different certified courses and different research work have shaped you both personally as well as professionally?
Answer: Enrolling in additional courses alongside our regular curriculum serves multiple purposes. Primarily, it allows us to acquire new skills and stay updated on emerging technologies. This not only enhances our knowledge but also provides insight into current trends and inventions. Moreover, participating in these courses offers a different perspective on various topics and enables us to understand others' viewpoints. Additionally, it helps us build valuable networks by connecting with fellow participants and instructors. These connections often lead to further opportunities for collaboration or learning through continued contact via email or other means.
Question 7: Would you like to share any challenges or difficulties that you faced in your journey and how did you overcome it?
Answer: Managing time effectively has been a significant challenge for me, particularly balancing academic responsibilities with extracurricular commitments like summer internships. The timing of these internships often overlaps with final exams and practicals, requiring meticulous planning and prioritisation. Additionally, the process of securing a mentor and finalising a topic adds another layer of complexity to an already busy schedule. Furthermore, as an introvert, interacting with strangers has been daunting, but I am actively working on overcoming this hurdle through continuous practice and perseverance.
Question 8: What piece of advice would you like to give to the people who are really interested in the research work and want to take it forward, be it as a career?
Answer: I believe in sharing my journey to inspire others, despite not feeling entirely qualified to give advice. From my experience, I've learned that research requires patience and perseverance. Often, experiments may not yield immediate results, but the confidence in our work benefiting the community and mankind keeps us going. For instance, my research aims to address the pressing issue of food security due to the rapid population growth. Currently pursuing a master's in plant molecular biology and biotechnology, I'm among a select few in a highly competitive field. Securing admission and pursuing a career in research demands hard work, high academic performance, publication of papers, and acquisition of necessary skills. Additionally, obtaining fellowships is crucial for funding and sustaining research endeavours, which can span several years, as evidenced by colleagues pursuing PhDs for up to six years. Patience, dedication, and success in competitive exams are essential for securing fellowships and advancing in the field of research.
Question 9: What role do you think friends, family and other people around play in our journey of success?
Answer: Parents are like the presence of God itself in our lives, facilitating our access to education. Through their guidance, we grasp the essence and significance of education, shaping our understanding of its importance. Moreover, mentors, such as teachers in colleges, hold a pivotal role in personal growth. While all educational institutions offer learning opportunities, select few comprehend the holistic needs of students. Personally, I found Maitreyi to be such a place, where my growth transcended academics, nurturing me on a personal level. The teachers across departments exhibited immense generosity and kindness, dedicating their time to my development. Even now, I maintain connections with them, appreciating their ongoing support. Additionally, friends contribute significantly to our college experience, fostering understanding beyond classroom notes. They aid in comprehending past lessons and navigating through challenges, enriching our learning journey.
Question 10: What are the things in your bucket list that you are still to take off?
Answer: Currently, I am pursuing my master's degree. I aim to excel in my master's studies and subsequently pursue a Ph.D. in a reputable research institute, preferably with a fellowship. Securing a fellowship is paramount, as it greatly aids in academic pursuits. That sums up my current aspirations.
HIGHLIGHTS-
●Having her UG degree in Life sciences from Maitreyi college, Naiya is pursuing Masters in Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology from University of Delhi, South campus.
●While pursuing Life Sciences, Nayia did research work on several vital topics and even got her work published in international journals that she conducted with her teammates.
●Nayia has presented before several national and international conferences.
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