Juann Abraham is a freshman who spends his time playing sports, working on robotics, or playing chess. In fact, it was during a chess game that he found a topic he truly resonated with: the importance of stepping back and doubting yourself rather than being blindly, unerringly confident.

Neeraja Nair, the founder of the Toastmasters Club chapter here at IA, is an artist and an avid reader. She discovered the power of boredom after an incident involving a broken phone and having nothing to do for several long days. She realized that boredom isn’t always dullness; it can sometimes be the stagnation you need to soar.

Rebanto Nath loves both building and learning about new things. He has a vested interest in AI, from conducting research projects to developing his own AI-related tools. However, he also realized the challenges that come with rapid technological development: would human growth still be meaningful in a world where a computer program can do everything we can, but faster?

Viraj Das has a passion for coding, public speaking, and creating once-in-a-lifetime experiences. He spends much of his time working in AI and VR, and much of that work has been recognized through awards and competitive achievement. He chose to use this knowledge to inspire people to seek out new and different experiences and perspectives from our own.

Samhita Narayanan loves music and the arts and has pursued competitive gymnastics for twelve years. However, all paths face roadblocks at some point; Samhita faced hers when she reached a turning point in her gymnastics career last year and discovered the true value of second chances.

Arjun Nair aspires to be a doctor and holds a strong passion for healthcare and the arts, but he’s also an athlete, representing his home school at the state level in tennis. After facing his own struggles to improve across different areas of his life, he realized the drastic impact an optimistic, action-focused mindset can have on success.

Anoushka Shinde is a fervent public speaker who loves singing, dancing, and anything involving performance. Through reflecting on a few seemingly insignificant moments in her life, she discovered the empowerment that comes from embracing our fears.

Tafadzwa Motsi enjoys learning about women’s health, medical ethics, and health equity. She serves as a blood donor ambassador for the American Red Cross and as a small group leader at her church and hopes to one day become an OBGYN. Navigating many colliding voices and perspectives along the way, Tafadzwa reflects on the different sides of culture and how each helps shape who we become.

Austin Guy loves reading, writing, and learning about any and everything. In an effort to solve one of the world’s many problems, he learned of a new and inspiring way of thinking and problem solving.

Arshia Rampuria is a sophomore in IA’s Engineering pathway who enjoys competing, creating, and exploring big ideas. From TSA and Quiz Bowl to piano and running, she is always chasing new challenges. Through her running journey, Arshia discovered how small, intentional actions can quietly build confidence and reshape the limits we place on ourselves.