After dinner, the lively din of family chatter slowly dwindled as we cleared the table and helped Mum with the dishes. The aroma of spices and the soft clatter of cutlery filled the house one last time before the temporary lull set in. I, along with Ilyas and Darius, finally dispersed, each retreating to our personal spaces. I headed toward my room, my mind still abuzz with the ideas and discussions from lunch. The day had been a rich tapestry of conversation—from Dad's thoughtful questions on our progress to the exciting chatter about Ilyas's game prototype and my own research on study‐abroad profile building. I felt a deep sense of relief; the relatives had left, and our home belonged, for now, to just us.
I closed the door behind me, leaning against it as I exhaled slowly. I spread out the notes I'd scribbled earlier and reviewed them. My heart still fluttered with excitement at the prospects of enhancing my profile for international studies. I thought about how my excellent academics were only part of the picture—I needed to build up my social service, extracurricular, and leadership credentials. Yet even as I lost myself in ideas and research, I felt I couldn't wait much longer to share more creative thoughts with my siblings about our future projects.
Approximately half an hour later, I was still absorbed in reading some articles when I heard a light knock on my door. I looked up to see Ilyas stepping into my room. He carried his laptop under one arm and a cautious smile played on his lips.
"Hey, Meher," he said softly as he walked further in and sank down on the couch right in front of my desk. I could see a spark in his eyes, as if he carried news that only we could understand between us.
I closed my notebook and sat up straight. "What's up, Ilyas? You look excited."
He fiddled with a loose thread on the couch cushion before speaking. "I was thinking… you know how you're amazing with art? How you can sketch characters and design artwork both digitally and with a pencil?" I asked, already nodding in agreement, remembering all the times I'd been complimented on my artistic flair.
Ilyas's smile widened. "Exactly. And I had this idea. What if I add your name as a co-creator or a key helper in my game project? It would not only enhance your profile in the extracurricular section but also highlight your artistic talent. I mean, I can't do everything, and your style could be a unique feature that distinguishes our game in the market."
I stared at him in pleasant disbelief. A slow grin spread across my face as excitement surged through me. "Really?" I asked eagerly. "Do you really think that having my input on the game would look good on my profile? I mean, it's something I absolutely love doing as well."
Ilyas leaned forward, hands animated. "Yes, absolutely. Listen, you're an excellent artist. Your sketches have that extra layer of creativity—your designs are distinct and vibrant. By incorporating your contributions into the game's character development and artwork, not only would the product become much more original, but it would also serve as an outstanding extracurricular accomplishment for both of us. Trust me, this is a win-win."
I felt a flutter of excitement and validation. "I love that idea, Ilyas. It sounds like a perfect collaboration. But… are you sure it won't be a problem, adding my name as a helper in the project?" I asked hesitantly, aware that this was a new step in our creative journey.
He reached out and patted my shoulder reassuringly. "There's absolutely no problem. In fact, I've already discussed it with our advisor briefly. Your name will be credited as a creative consultant and artist. Nobody can argue with that, especially since your work is undeniable."
I smiled, my heart warming at the sincere support. "Okay then, count me in. I'm excited to join you in this project. I've been wanting to contribute more than just ideas—I can draft some sketches and even create concept art as needed."
Ilyas's eyes gleamed. "That's what I wanted to hear. I'll send you the latest version of the prototype later, and we can brainstorm ways to integrate your art seamlessly. I think a few new character designs right here could really elevate what I've already built."
Our conversation carried on with lively discussion about technical tweaks and creative visions. I offered suggestions, such as incorporating subtle animations during transitions and designing a mentor character whose visuals could be evocative of traditional artistic sketches, blending modern digital art with hand-drawn charm. We exchanged ideas, sometimes disagreeing playfully about color palettes or narrative flow, but always with mutual respect and unwavering enthusiasm.
After about twenty minutes of intense yet joyful collaboration, Ilyas glanced at the clock, his tone suddenly apologetic. "It's getting late, Meher. I should probably head back to my room now. We've got a lot to work on tomorrow, and I don't want to disturb you too much."
I nodded, feeling reluctant to break our creative bubble but understanding the need for rest. "Absolutely, Ilyas. Thanks for coming by and for the brilliant idea. We'll talk more in our session after dinner, okay?"
"Definitely," he replied with a determined nod. "Good night, Meher. Dream of epic adventures and brilliant designs!" With that, Ilyas gathered his laptop and left the room quietly, leaving me with a lingering sense of inspiration.
I stared at the door for several moments, contemplating all the possibilities of our newfound collaboration. My thoughts turned to my own future—beyond our creative synergy with Ilyas, I had ambitions to refine my study-abroad profile thoroughly. I knew that tomorrow, armed with the energy of a good night's rest, I had to dive into searching for research fellowships and internships. Not only that, but I also wanted to discuss these opportunities with Ava, to get her invaluable opinion, knowing that her own experience in professional projects would give me plenty of perspective.
With these thoughts swirling in my mind, I powered down my computer. I arranged my notes on my desk and prepared to leave for the night. I realized that I needed to sleep soundly if I were to tackle tomorrow with a fresh, burning determination. I snuggled into my soft pillow and closed my eyes, thinking about the exciting possibilities that awaited me. I imagined new opportunities to enhance my profile—more than just academics, but real-world experiences, research fellowships, and a solid mentorship that could guide me on the path of international success.
Before sleep finally overtook me, I remembered I still had one more message I wanted to send. I picked up my phone and, with a hopeful heart, texted Ava:
"Hey Ava, I'm off to sleep now, but tomorrow I'm diving into searching for fellowships and internships. I'd love to chat and get your thoughts on some ideas. Let's catch up in the morning!"
I quickly hit send and then allowed my eyelids to flutter closed, my mind both relaxed and teeming with visions of a bright future. I drifted off with a warm smile, comforted by the idea that shortly, I would be able to enrich my study-abroad profile further, and excited to discuss every detail with Ava.
The night passed in a blur of pleasant dreams, and soon the gentle light of dawn crept through my window. I woke up with an invigorated breath—a new day had begun. The promise of opportunities danced in my mind, and a fierce resolve took hold of me; today, I would not let a single chance slip by. I sat up, stretching luxuriously, and reached for my phone. Without hesitating, I sent a quick text message to Ava:
"Good morning, Ava! Ready to conquer today? I've got big plans to search for fellowships and internships. Let's chat soon!"
Almost immediately, I received a reply.
"Morning, Meher! Absolutely—today is our day. I've been thinking about a few opportunities as well. Let's catch up soon."
That brief exchange made my heart soar. I felt as if every bit of determination evoked last night had been reaffirmed with Ava's shared enthusiasm. I quickly swung out of bed and moved to get myself ready. I took a long, refreshing shower, dressed in my favorite casual attire, and looked at myself in the mirror with the reflection of a girl determined to make the most of the opportunities before her.
Before noon, I descended the stairs to help Mum with breakfast. The house, now bathed in natural daylight and filled with the alluring aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling parathas, felt like an inviting haven. Mum was already bustling in the kitchen, setting the table, and smiling as she greeted me warmly.
"Good morning, Meher," she said as I entered, placing a gentle kiss on my forehead. "I made your favorite for breakfast today—masala chai with freshly baked biscuits and a warm bowl of upma."
I grinned, "You truly know the way to my heart, Mum." I helped her line up the dishes on the table, carefully arranging bowls and plates with practiced ease. As soon as we sat down, the cheerful notes of family conversation began anew. Mum's voice blended with my father's friendly commentary about the weather and the day ahead. I could see hints of relief in everyone's expressions as the house radiated warmth, free from the earlier chaos.
Over breakfast, conversation flowed freely. Mum asked, "So, Meher, I heard you were planning to search for fellowship opportunities today. How's that going?"
I replied thoughtfully, "I've been gathering so many ideas. I'm really looking to combine academic excellence with practical experiences. I need a research fellowship or an internship that lets me build my profile—the type of experience that will help me not only academically but also in terms of leadership and community engagement."
My father interjected, "That sounds like a fine plan, dear. Your academic records are stellar; adding that real-world experience should set you apart. Have you identified any potential programs yet?"
I explained, "I've been doing preliminary research online. I found a few promising internships in the country and some appealing fellowships abroad. I'm looking for opportunities where I can work under the guidance of experienced researchers to build a solid foundation. I've also been reading profiles of well-known professors and researchers to see whose work resonates with mine. I might even reach out to a couple of them for mentorship."
Mum's eyes shone with pride. "I'm so proud of you, Meher. It's amazing to see you plan so carefully. Just remember, balance is key. Don't overburden yourself."
I nodded, sipping my chai. "I know, Mum. I promise to pace myself. I want my profile to reflect passion, but also resilience and a realistic approach to growth."
The morning passed in gentle conversation and hearty laughter. After breakfast, I excused myself to return to my room and continue my research online. I settled at my desk, connected my laptop to the Wi-Fi, and began methodically searching through websites, academic journals, and fellowship databases. I typed queries like "international research fellowships 2025" and "internship opportunities abroad for undergraduates." I bookmarked pages, downloaded PDFs, and even jotted down preliminary notes in my digital notebook.
Almost as soon as I got lost in the search for opportunities, my phone buzzed with another notification—a message from Ava. I glanced at the screen; her reply read:
"Hey, Meher, I'm definitely looking into some opportunities too. I've got some professional experience on a coding project at my uncle's company, and they say it could be an excellent addition to your profile if you mention collaborative projects. We should pool our ideas!"
I smiled uncontrollably. It was incredible how our ambitions aligned, even though our fields of interest sometimes diverged. I promptly typed back:
"Great, Ava! Let's definitely collaborate. I'm thoroughly researching both domestic and international programs. I'm even looking up the profiles of several renowned professors to see how to approach potential mentors. Let's compare notes later!"
And I hit send.
The conversation with Ava had boosted my determination further. I began typing with fervor, scrolling through countless fellowship listings, reading detailed program requirements, and analyzing the profiles of potential mentors. I scribbled ideas in my notebook: one list for domestic opportunities and another for overseas ones. I looked carefully at the application deadlines and the type of support provided by various programs. I marveled at the resilience and brilliance of successful mentors I've read about—researchers with brilliant accolades who had curated impressive academic journeys of their own. Their profiles were not just resumes, but actual roadmaps to success, and I wanted to learn from them.
I spent almost two hours combing through academic websites and forums, even sending a couple of emails asking for additional information about certain opportunities. I felt a mixed cocktail of excitement and nervous anticipation with every potential opportunity that I logged, every mentor that I thought might be a fit. My mind buzzed with ideas and possibilities. Sometimes, I paused and reread the emails of alumni I had received before—from professors like Professor Desai and Professor Mukherjee—and compared their valuable insights with what I'd found on my own. I made careful notes on how I could structure my future applications.
As I was about to click on another website about international internships, my phone vibrated unexpectedly. I glanced at the screen, and an unexpected text popped up from one of my batchmates from college. The message read:
"Hey, Meher—long time no see! I just saw your profile update. Mind if we chat about some study abroad stuff? I have some wild experiences, and I think they might interest you."
My heart skipped a beat. I hadn't expected to hear from anyone from college so soon, and the prospect of exchanging ideas with a batchmate—someone who had seen things firsthand—was thrilling. I sat back in my chair, a smile spreading across my face as I read the message over and over. It was an unexpected reminder that sometimes, opportunities and connections came from the most unexpected sources.
At that moment, I took a break, leaned back in my chair, and allowed the significance of that message to sink in. I felt incredibly grateful for the support network I was building—seldom did I feel so positively connected with people from every facet of my journey: family, mentors, best friends, and even old batchmates. The text from my peer was like a spark of serendipity, confirming that my aspirations were shared by others who had walked a similar path.
I typed back a quick reply:
"Hi! Absolutely, I'd love to chat. Let's catch up sometime today or tomorrow. I'm in full research mode today but will be free later. Looking forward to hearing about your experiences!"
After sending the text, I closed my eyes for a moment and let out a satisfied sigh. At that moment, I realized that the journey to build my profile was not one I had to walk alone. With support from Ava, my siblings' creative collaboration, and now even my batchmates reaching out, the road ahead seemed full of hope and promise.
I leaned back and glanced around my room, feeling peaceful after a day of intense productivity and heartfelt conversations. I thought back to last night's discussion with Ilyas about adding my creative talent to his project. His idea had been so innovative and validating that it reaffirmed my passion for art and design. I recalled the eagerness in his voice as he explained how my unique style would blend perfectly with his adaptive narrative game—and that our collaboration would not only enhance his project but also fortify my own extra‐curricular profile.
I opened a new document on my laptop and began jotting down some sketches and ideas of my own—drafts of character designs and concepts that could be integrated into Ilyas's game. I typed out a list of potential features: a character evolution system, interactive artwork that responded to the game's narrative shifts, even a dynamic color palette that changed with the storyline's mood. My internal dialogue swirled with creative energy, and I felt more in tune with my artistic side than I had in a long time.
At the same time, I glanced at the message thread from Ava and my research notes on fellowships. The synergy between my technical aspirations and my artistic capabilities made me realize that my journey toward building a strong international profile was multifaceted. I wasn't just an academic achiever—I was a creative force, a problem solver, and an innovative thinker. The path ahead might be challenging, but I felt more determined than ever to embrace every opportunity.
I typed notes furiously, interweaving my ideas for future projects with details of the opportunities I hoped to secure. Every research paper, every informative email response in my inbox, and every encouraging text from friends and mentors was a stepping stone to a future that promised endless growth. I pictured the collaborative project with Ilyas evolving into something extraordinary—a game that wasn't just fun, but a testament to our passion and ingenuity, and simultaneously a highlight of my extracurricular portfolio, showcasing my abilities in design, art, innovation, and teamwork.
Before long, the quiet of the morning was punctuated by another text—a brief message from Ava confirming she was finalizing her own research on internships and coding projects through her uncle's company. Her message read:
"Meher, I found a great opportunity that can boost our profiles. I'm excited about the professional project at my uncle's company—it's right up our alley. Let's compare notes later!"
I felt a surge of excitement again. It was incredible, the way our paths intersected with opportunities from every direction. I quickly replied, "Awesome, Ava! Can't wait to hear more. We're definitely stronger together."
As I continued my work, I reminded myself that today was not just another day; it was the beginning of a focused journey toward creating the future I envisioned. My research on fellowships led me to detailed pages discussing both domestic and international opportunities. I read about various programs that provided funding for undergraduate research, mentorship initiatives in the sciences, and even creative fellowships that supported interdisciplinary projects, marrying art with technology.
I clicked through profiles of renowned professors and researchers. I studied the backgrounds of successful alumni who had pursued advanced studies abroad. I made lists of potential mentors whose research interests aligned with mine, hoping to someday reach out for guidance. Every now and then, I paused and adjusted my screen brightness as I read through long, inspiring profiles, letting the passion of these scholars fuel my own ambitions.
I jotted down ideas—perhaps I could draft an application for a research fellowship on environmental studies, or maybe venture into a creative interdisciplinary program that combined art and technology. I carefully noted deadlines and criteria, determined to build a portfolio that reflected both academic excellence and creative vision.
Time seemed to fly, and the room grew quiet except for the soft tapping of keys and the occasional rustle of paper. I felt completely absorbed by the possibilities. My heart beat with the thrill of knowing that every bit of effort today was an investment in my future.
Then, without warning, my phone buzzed with yet another message. I glanced at the screen and my breath caught in surprise. It was an unexpected text from one of my batchmates back in college—a friend I hadn't spoken to in a while. The message read simply:
"Hey, Meher, I saw your recent update on the study-abroad forum. Got some ideas to share if you're free. Let's catch up!"
I stared at that message for a long moment. It was completely unanticipated, yet it filled me with a sense of exhilaration and connection. Here was someone from my academic past, reaching out with ideas and experiences that might further enrich my journey. The feeling was akin to a spark igniting a hidden flame—an assurance that I was on the right track.
I quickly typed back a reply, my fingers trembling with excitement:
"Hi! That sounds great—let's definitely chat. I'm free now; I'd love to hear your thoughts on study-abroad experiences and any useful tips you have."
After sending the message, I leaned back in my chair and allowed myself a moment of quiet reflection. I gazed out the window at the gentle morning light spilling over the horizon and smiled softly to myself. Everything was beginning to come together: the creative collaboration with Ilyas, my intensive research on opportunities, Ava's supportive texts, and now this message from a batchmate with practical insights. I felt hopeful, energized, and ready to take on the challenges that lay ahead.
I closed my eyes for a brief moment, committing all these thoughts to memory, knowing I would soon have a lengthy discussion with Ava over the phone. Today was a day of building bridges—between my past and my future, between creativity and academia, and between collaborative projects and individual ambitions.
As I gazed at my screen one last time, filled with research articles on internships, fellowships, and mentor profiles, I realized that the journey to build a solid international profile was as much about the connections we made as it was about the accomplishments we achieved. Each conversation, every message, was a building block on the path to a fulfilling future.
I took a deep breath and resumed my work with renewed determination, my heart light and my mind sharp. With every click and scroll, I could almost see the tapestry of my future taking shape—vibrant, multifaceted, and entirely my own.
---
Thus ends this chapter—a day that stretched from a satisfying family lunch through a night filled with creative brainstorming and meaningful discussions, to a morning of relentless research and hopeful connection. I have come a long way from the days of being overwhelmed by intrusive relatives; now, I stand firm in my determination to craft a future that encompasses academic, creative, and personal growth. The unexpected text from my batchmate is not merely a message; it is a beacon that promises further insight and shared experiences on this exhilarating journey.
I close my laptop with a quiet smile, knowing that tonight, after dinner, I will reconvene with Ilyas and Darius in my room to discuss his updated ideas for the prototype. Their support, the wisdom of Ava's guidance, and this renewed sense of opportunity all blend together, affirming that my path forward is bright, promising, and uniquely mine.
With that thought, I lean back in my chair, stretch once more, and allow the calm determination of the new day to carry me forward—ever ready to embrace the opportunities that await, and to build the future I've always dreamed of.