As 2025 comes to a close, NT BUZZ speaks to people about the first-time experiences that made their year memorable
I travelled alone for the first time to attend a week-long summer school in Cape Town. It was also my first time abroad and a chance to present my poster and learn new things about my research. Being far from home and on my own for the first time felt very freeing.
-Debasmita Chaki
My most memorable experience was a one-month digital detox. I travelled to Kochi, Kerala, after giving up my phone and deactivating my social media accounts. This voluntary disconnection allowed me to travel and stay there without relying on technology. It helped me truly appreciate the beauty around me and focus on real-life experiences.”
-Himanshu Singh
This year, I learned to cook, trying dishes I never thought I would and it quickly became a fun and creative hobby. There’s something special about seeing a dish turn out well, as it always brings me joy. I also completed a certification in acrylic painting, something I had wanted to do for a long time. Painting taught me patience and reminded me to enjoy the process. I hope to carry this same spirit into the year ahead.”
-Tanisha Samant Lolienkar
My first was stepping into the IT industry as a working professional. I moved from being a student who learned concepts in the classroom to someone responsible for real systems, real data and real deadlines. That year, I stopped preparing for a career and truly began living it.”
-Soham Tanvade
I decided to take charge of my health for myself. Losing weight was not just about the numbers on the scale; it was about discipline, consistency and changing my daily habits. There were tough days but sticking to it taught me patience and resilience. As I lost weight, my confidence, energy and focus grew.”
-Atish Lolienkar
I boarded a research vessel for the first time, an experience that completely changed my perspective. I completed my master’s in chemistry and took the first step toward my dream research career as a project associate at CSIR. I felt the excitement of conducting oceanographic surveys in international waters and gradually gained hands-on experience in research operations on the vessel. I also learned new skills, including handling samples, especially aerosols, as well as collecting data and operating instruments. These challenges were new to me but incredibly rewarding.”
– Kingsley Periera
I tried many things for the first time. I went on two work-related cruises, where I did onboard work and saw whales, sharks, dolphins and other marine life. I also tried snorkeling, saw marine creatures up close and learned to swim. I also flew for the first time, from the Maldives to Goa, which was my first trip abroad. Overall, 2025 was full of learning and adventure.
-Ashish Shrivastava
This year, I experienced an important change in my mindset. I learned that taking responsibility and thinking positively doesn’t mean ignoring reality but looking at it differently. It hasn’t always been easy, but understanding that I can control my attitude has been empowering, especially after years of self-sabotage.”
-Sukhada Kelekar
