“I heard from everyone that the 10th-grade exam is difficult. I don’t like to study. So I was constantly worried whether I would pass or not,” recalls Danish Sheikh, a 16-year-old from Salve Nagar, Yerwada.
Background and family aspirations
Danish lives with his parents and older siblings, depending on his father’s income while his mother handles the household chores. Despite their limited formal education, his parents are deeply invested in his future, hoping he will excel academically and achieve success, believing that education is the key to a better life.
Struggles and Challenges
However, Danish has faced significant struggles. His passion for football, writing, and bike riding was often overshadowed by academic pressure. He struggled with shyness and low confidence, leading to feelings of uncertainty in class. Balancing academics with personal interests proved challenging for him, and he often found it difficult to manage his time effectively. Despite these challenges, his parents continue to support him in his pursuit of a brighter future.
Danish’s daily routine primarily revolved around his school schedule, followed by hours spent scrolling through his phone instead of focusing on his studies. When he did attempt to study, he would recite answers repetitively, without fully understanding the underlying concepts. The closure of schools during the pandemic had a severe impact on his education, significantly hindering his academic progress. As a result, he scored only 24% in grade 9. This struggle began to take a toll on his entire family, affecting their well-being and sense of stability. His parents, who had high hopes for his future, grew increasingly concerned as they noticed his lack of motivation and understanding. The tension surrounding his academic challenges led to growing worries about Danish’s potential and his future opportunities.
Fascinated by the idea of CRC through his friend, studying could be combined with fun, they decided to join which marked a significant beginning in his life. – says Danish.
Role of CRC in Danish’s Transformation
CRC became a pivotal center in his journey. Beyond academics, he learned the importance of hard work and determination. This patiently helped him improve his reading skills, introducing techniques that made learning enjoyable. The center allowed Danish to make mistakes and learn from them, gradually building his confidence. As he immersed himself in the 10th-grade subjects, Danish discovered newfound clarity. He picked up valuable computer skills and found joy in drawing and drama activities. This holistic approach reshaped his attitude toward learning, inspiring him to excel.
Discovering new skills and interests
As days passed at CRC, a remarkable transformation took place. Surrounded by a nurturing environment, Danish’s confidence began to blossom. He felt comfortable asking questions and engaging with his studies. Mathematics, once a source of dread, became his favorite subject as he grasped its concepts with ease. Danish’s shyness melted away. He embraced extracurricular activities, stepping up as the leader of the football team. For the first time, he felt a sense of belonging and purpose, which fueled his determination.
Overcoming Challenges and Gaining Confidence
“I want to open my own hotel and make my parents proud,” he shares, his eyes shining with ambition”.
With renewed confidence and the unwavering support of the center, Danish tackled his 10th-grade exams with determination and focus. His dedication and hard work paid off when the results were announced, reflecting his persistence. He achieved a commendable 48% in grade 10, a true testament to his resilience and commitment. This achievement was more than just academic success; it symbolized his triumph over self-doubt and marked a significant step toward a promising future. Encouraged by this accomplishment, Danish has decided to pursue commerce, aligning with his growing interest in the business world. Looking ahead, he dreams of enrolling in a hotel management course, driven by his passion for the hospitality industry and his desire to build a successful career.
(This article is contributed by Kalyani Mudaliar, Documentation Officer at CYDA)
