Letter to my 11-year-old self

Hey kiddo (and I mean it, literally!),

This is a letter from your older self—someone who has seen the journey unfold and experienced all the ups and downs that came along with it.

I am writing to remind you of a few things.

The first thing I want you to remember is just one name: IISc.

Why? I’m not going to reveal that yet. You will eventually understand the why yourself.

You are enjoying a great phase of life right now, but trust me, something very special is still waiting for you in the future.

You are currently in the 6th standard. You have just heard the name IISc—Indian Institute of Science—for the first time. One of your seniors from school has secured admission there through a competitive entrance examination called KVPY, and the entire school is celebrating his achievement. You somewhat understand that IISc is one of the most prestigious institutions in the country, and now your curiosity is compelling you to search for it on the internet. You begin to learn a little more about it.

However, I know you are too young to grasp its full significance right now.

At this point in your life, you are busy running around, playing with your friends, and simply enjoying the memories you are making. And honestly, you should.

But there is something I want you to remember as you grow older:

Never give up on your big dreams.

Stay focused, keep working hard, and hold on to the discipline you have always had. There will always be small ups and downs along the way, but remember that they are a part of your journey—and that the journey is often more important than the destination itself.

The road ahead will be full of obstacles. At times, they will test you to your limits. There will be moments when you will question yourself and wonder whether you are actually capable of reaching where you want to go.

But believe me—it will be worth it.

Eventually, you will reach a place where you belong, a place you have worked incredibly hard to earn.

I know you will understand much of this only later in life. But for now, just keep your learning attitude alive. Stay curious. Keep asking questions, and never be afraid of not knowing something.

You will meet all kinds of people along the way—some absolutely amazing, and some who may not be so great. Don’t let either kind of encounter go to waste. Every person you meet and every experience you have will leave you with something to learn.

There will be times when you feel like it is the end of everything.

And there will also be times when life feels absolutely complete.

Remember that neither lasts forever.

When the going gets tough, the tough get going. And when life is beautiful, appreciate it fully, because those moments are fleeting too.

Have faith in the process. More importantly, be honest with yourself.

Always keep that bright smile on your face. Learn to be graceful in defeat and humble in success. These qualities will take you much further than you can presently imagine.

And finally, never doubt your potential, because you deserve to be THE BEST.

With love,

Your older self
1st October, 2026
Bengaluru