Question. Can you start by telling me a bit about yourself?
I’m Sneha Gupta from the batch of 2025/26 pursuing B.Com Hons at Jesus and Mary College, University of Delhi. I'm a passionate and energetic person who loves exploring new things. Over the past two years in college, I’ve had the chance to visit multiple colleges across Delhi University for various events and competitions, whether in North Campus, South Campus, or other parts of DU. I’m really into public speaking, which has led me to participate in national-level debates and MUN conferences. Besides that, I’m a trained Kathak dancer and even started my own Dance Summer Camp called ‘Dance Dil Se’ in 11th grade for young children. I still pursue dancing and perform at various places.
Question. What sparked your interest in filmmaking?
Well, as you can see, I have a wide range of interests and I love trying new things. During college, I found a safe space to grow and experiment. I’ve always loved speaking to large audiences, and that passion for expression naturally extended to filmmaking. Plus, being the Cultural Head of my department due to my involvement in Kathak also played a role in fostering my creative side.
Question. Since you won first place in a filmmaking competition at your college, can you tell me about the concept and production of your award-winning film?
The theme of the competition was "Breaking the Binary: Where There's Power, There's Resistance." We had to create a three-minute short film with no more than two cuts and scene changes. Our film explores how societal pressures make it difficult for two people to love each other freely due to fear of judgment and non-acceptance. But in the end, they break free from these shackles and embrace their love and fate.
Our team was called the Picture Poets, and I have to give credit to my partner, Rosemary Arya, who directed the video. She did an amazing job! The film was about love and inclusivity, and it had to be a one-shot film. My team and I decided to shoot at the Safdarjung Tomb. We wrote the script and poem ourselves, focusing on the idea that inclusive love knows no boundaries. It was my first attempt at filmmaking, so it was purely an exploratory experience. We didn’t expect to win, but it was a wonderful surprise.
Question. As you've participated in many MUNs, how did they help you grow as an individual?
MUNs are fantastic for personal growth. You get to meet and collaborate with so many new people. The format is really formal and professional, just like actual UN conferences. You engage in general discussions, moderated and unmoderated caucuses, and negotiate and draft formal documents. It requires a lot of research and in-depth analysis of current issues.
There are various committees, like the General Assembly and the United Nations Security Council, and you can choose one based on your interests. The in-depth discussions on different agendas help you become more aware of global issues. You learn a lot and gain exposure to the current world scenario, which helps you form and express your opinions. Plus, it's a great way to build your network.
Question. Tell me about your journey in opening your dance school, 'Dance Dil Se'.
Dancing has been my passion since childhood. My mom enrolled me in Kathak classes when I was five, and I've been dedicated to it ever since. During the COVID pandemic, while I was in 11th grade, I decided to start my own dance classes on Zoom. It was my first earning experience, and it was really fun. People were eager to join since it was a way to stay active and engaged during the lockdown.
Question. You were the Second Runner Up in a National Debate Competition at JIMS, Kalkaji. What was the theme of your debate, and what strategies do you use?
There were three rounds. The first was about teenagers' perception of social media, the second was on 'Godi Media' and media transparency, and the final round, which we had only 15 minutes to prepare for, was about Capitalism vs. Socialism and its environmental impact. When it comes to debating, I believe winning debates requires being well-informed, presenting strong analysis with case studies, and effective communication. It's important to stay calm and rely on solid, reliable information rather than simply being the loudest voice. Since we went there as a team, I believe, effective team synchronization is crucial for ensuring that everyone is on the same page and working together efficiently.
Question. As the Treasurer of Chanakya, the Economics Cell of your college, what financial management skills have you developed?
As a treasurer, the first thing you learn is how to keep detailed records of every expense. This means you plan your spending thoughtfully and have proof and records for everything to present to your teacher when making a balance sheet. Your every transaction must be recorded aligned with the date, amount, purpose, etc. It's basically like an entire plethora of your financial activities.
These experiences are incredibly valuable in personal life too. As a college student, it's easy to lose track of expenses, but being a treasurer has helped me develop the habit of tracking my spending meticulously at my individual level to manage my personal finances.
Question. How have you contributed to the cultural activities as the Cultural Head of the Commerce Department?
Whenever we have events like the recent International Conference or any other where we need dance and music, that's our thing. We look for good dancers, but even if someone isn't that into it, we still pick them. As the Cultural Head, it's my job to make sure everyone gets a chance to learn and join in, even if they're just interested.
We've got our core team that helps them learn the steps, and sometimes we even carry out choreography for the performances. And it's not just dance; music falls under my purview too.
Question. What kind of work culture do you promote in your team?
As a leader, I'd describe my style as democratic. I give my teammates plenty of space to share their ideas and get creative. I'm very particular about the quality of work, though. I'm approachable and always ready to help if anyone faces difficulties. However, if someone isn't taking their work seriously, that's not appreciated. I respect everyone's way of working, as long as it doesn't negatively impact the team.
Question. You worked as an outreach intern at Girl Up, UN. How did this experience change your perspectives on gender equality?
I did this internship while I was still in school because one of my schoolmates started the initiative, so I got to observe the process closely. It really showed me how even at a young age, you can make a big impact. Through this internship, I learned about the struggles of underprivileged women who don't have access to the same facilities we do in urban areas.
Visiting these areas was eye-opening. Women there often live in unhygienic conditions, unable to even use sanitary pads, yet they still have to do all the household chores. Despite being in the 21st century, these rural areas are still lacking basic developments. For example, it's shocking that many people still don't use LPG for cooking.
Initially, it was heartbreaking to see such conditions, but it also helped me develop a sense of empathy and gratitude for what I have. Helping others without expecting anything in return is incredibly rewarding. I also got the chance to teach students in the slum areas. This experience made me realize how much talent and potential these people have, but they lack the resources to thrive. It really puts into perspective how fortunate we are and the importance of valuing what we have.
Question. As a core team member of NSS, JMC, have you been involved in other community service projects?
We used to visit Prabhatara Hostel, a girl's hostel, as part of our community service activities. During Christmas, we went there and they had organized plays and enactments. We helped them with their play scripts and costumes. It was heartwarming to see not just children, but also young women participating.
Many of these women were daily wage labourers who came to the hostel after work to engage in activities. Some were involved in stitching, while others spent their free time honing their skills and learning about different festivities.
Additionally, NSS runs an English course there, so some of my teammates and I also volunteered to teach them. It was a rewarding experience to be able to contribute to their learning and well-being.
Question. You've explored Human Resource Management through internships and as a member of LeHR JMC. Can you tell me more about LeHR?
LeHR is basically the HR hub of our college. It's all about diving into different Human Resource activities and competitions. One of our big events is called 'Thrive'. In the first round, we usually kick off with a quiz covering topics like MNCs and HR-related stuff. Then, things heat up with rounds like debates or mock interviews. It's a great opportunity to learn about HR in the corporate world and put your skills to the test.
Question. How have these experiences helped you understand Human Resource Management, and do you plan to pursue it in the future?
During my internship, I focused a lot on the recruitment process. It gave me a glimpse into how hiring works and the challenges of earning trust and credibility as a student intern. You also learn about the criteria used to evaluate candidates, which requires a deep understanding of human psychology.
It's fascinating to see how people behave in work environments and what motivates them. As a commerce student, HR is definitely an option for me in terms of career paths, but I'm also drawn to marketing. Right now, I'm keeping my options open and exploring where my interests and skills align best.
Question. Which experience holds the closest place in your heart?
The filmmaking experience is very special to me. It was my first time trying something completely new, and the support from my peers was incredible. I’m grateful for the opportunities and the environment at JMC, especially in the Commerce Department, which has allowed me to explore various interests and grow as an individual.
HIGHLIGHTS-
●Second Runner Up, National Debate Competition, JIMS, KALKAJI
● 2nd In NSS Presentation Competition, Mata Sundri College
● 1st in Short Film Making Competition, Jesus and Mary College
● All India Junior Anchoring Competition, Yantrikom Ventures Pvt Ltd
●Treasurer of Chanakya, The Economics Cell
● Cultural Sub-head of Dept. of Commerce, JMC
● Organising Head of Management Interaction Cell, JMC
● Core Team Member of NSS, JMC
●Executive Marketing and Networking Member of LeHR JMC
● Founder of Dance Dil Se
● Intern at Chamber of Indian Micro Small & Medium Enterprises
● Project Intern at Experiences Digital
●HR Intern, Aashman Foundation
●Marketing Intern at Pregrad
●Outreach Intern at Girl Up, UN
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