Hello, my name is Kehkashan and I’d like to share a turning point from my own life that helped shape the person I am today. I always thought stories about people going from being a dropper to a class topper all of a sudden were exaggerated, or maybe just not meant for someone like me. That is, until I found myself having a similar experience

I was always an average scorer with high-expecting parents. That meant I was used to seeing their smile fading every time they opened that one piece of paper. They say one piece of paper cannot decide your future, but it did feel like it decided the amount of pride and respect I would be getting from my parents. The hardest part of my situation was that my best friend was a high achiever, and with the constant pressure from my parents to live up to certain expectations, I found myself always comparing my life to hers. I couldn’t help but feel like I was falling short, and at times, I wished I could trade places with her, thinking that her life was somehow easier or more perfect than mine. It felt like the weight of my own struggles was even heavier when I saw her succeeding effortlessly, which only made me more frustrated with myself. 

When I was 12 years old, there was a quiz in our school and we were divided into teams. My team was in the lead, but when it came down to the last question, I knew the answer. I shared it with the team leader, but she responded by saying, "You achieve B’s and C’s, do you really think I can trust you with this?" Her words hit me hard and left me feeling completely deflated. I felt dismissed and judged, and her response was a blow to my confidence. 

After that, I simply believed that no matter how much I work hard, I cannot improve myself. The thing is, I used to think that I was working hard, but in reality, I was just comforting myself with the idea that the education system was rigged, and that I was perfect. Instead of facing the areas where I could improve, I convinced myself that any struggles I faced were because the system was unfair, rather than taking responsibility for my own growth.

However, something changed within me when I got a “D” in class 8, as it was the worst possible grade I had gotten, and the fact that I failed 2 subjects was the most atrocious thing that could ever happen to me. That day I realized that this is not how I want my future to be. I realized that, while grades aren’t the only measure of a person’s worth, they often shape the opportunities and respect one receives, and I desperately desired the kind of success that comes with "A"s. Usually, self-doubt only leads to destruction, but, in my case, it was my biggest weapon. I worked day and night, taking online tuitions and started focusing more in school. 

They say hard work pays off, and it did, as in no time, I became the wild card entry. Everyone was surprised. My teachers were amazed that the girl who was failing till yesterday is now scoring the highest grades. For the first time, I understood what success truly felt like. Success for me was when I saw the faded smiles of my parents turn into smiles of pride. That success is the most beautiful yet painstaking journey. 

For anyone feeling stuck, I want you to know that nothing is impossible. No matter how dark the situation looks right now, your hard work and dedication will turn this darkness into the light of success. All you have to do is keep going and never stop.