Stars Shine at Their Own Time- by Chitra Sisodia, Faculty, KIS NOIDA

Ms. Chitra Sisodia

For the brightest young minds who are currently battling parental expectations and societal pressure over their not-so-great exam results.

You do not see stars in the daylight, but that does not mean they do not exist. They are always there, waiting for the right moment to shine. Similarly, when board/competitive exam results are declared, many young aspirants begin doubting their potential: some feel they do not belong; others believe they are destined to remain unseen, like 'lost stars.' In extreme cases, the despair drives them to take irreversible steps, leaving their families shattered. Tragically, they fail to realize they are stars meant to shine, only at the right time. Sadly, they do not wait for their moment, and their parents, grappling with the grief over their child's result, often forget to remind them that they are unique, capable of remarkable achievements in their own way.

This situation stems from two key issues. First, students—and often parents—succumb to herd mentality. If everyone aspires to be an engineer or doctor, they blindly follow suit. Many students, fresh out of school, are unsure of their passions or torn between choices. This uncertainty is challenging for both the child and the parents. In such cases, it is better to PAUSE rather than PUSH them into conventional paths. Instead, identify their strengths and interests, then explore opportunities aligned with them.

Second, schools and society must stop being relentlessly demanding. Studies have shown that scoring 100% does not guarantee success, yet we obsess over perfect grades. In chasing this unrealistic ideal, we strip students of essential life skills: kindness, respect, and empathy-reducing them to mere score-producing machines. So much for our so-called 'progressive' education system.

Ironically, we applaud films like 3 Idiots for critiquing societal pressures, yet fail to apply their lessons in real life. Parents must remember: your child is incomparable. Measuring them against others undermines their individuality. Celebrate their distinct talents and guide them toward a path that resonates with their passions. When they flourish, their brilliance will illuminate the world—but only if parents stand by them with patience and faith.

The world must learn sensitivity—if someone clears a tough exam like JEE, you will hear about it. There is no need to probe. Likewise, parents must refrain from blaming their child. Remember, the child is already grappling with guilt and regret,over their performance,over distractions like social media. The result may have broken their spirit or strengthened their resolve, but either way, they are enduring an emotional storm. Adding to their burden with criticism or comparisons only fuels anxiety and despair.

This is a plea to parents to believe in their children unconditionally; to society, to curb its intrusive curiosity about results; and most importantly, to students themselves.

You matter the most. Believe in yourself. You are a star, destined to shine. Keep working hard, keep refining your skills, and when your time comes, nothing will dim your light. For no one can stop the stars from guiding the night.