At a time when board exam success is usually marked with celebrations and career planning, 16-year-old Akshara Goel from Thane is choosing a different path—one that quite literally climbs above the clouds. Fresh from scoring an impressive 98.8% in her Class 10 exams under the Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (ICSE), Akshara is preparing to trek to Everest Base Camp. But this is not just a personal milestone—she aims to set a world record by conducting a live online class from high altitude, redefining how and where learning can happen.
In this candid conversation, Akshara speaks about discipline, ambition, and why education should go beyond classroom walls.
Q: First of all, congratulations! 98.8% is an incredible achievement. How does it feel?
Akshara Goel: Thank you! It feels really special, but also motivating. I see it not just as a result, but as a stepping stone. I’ve always believed that marks are important, but what you do beyond them matters even more.
Q: Most students celebrate results differently. Why Everest Base Camp?
Akshara: I wanted to do something meaningful and memorable. Trekking to Everest Base Camp is a challenge—physically and mentally. Combining that with a live online class is my way of showing that education doesn’t have boundaries. Learning can happen anywhere, even at extreme altitudes.
Q: Tell us more about this world record attempt.
Akshara: The idea is to conduct a live class from Everest Base Camp. It’s symbolic—it shows how technology and education can come together. If students can learn from such remote places, it opens up possibilities for global, accessible education.
Q: Preparing for such a trek isn’t easy. How did you train, especially during exams?
Akshara: I trained locally at Yeoor Hills in Thane with daily treks. I also did yoga and stair climbing in my 16-storey building. Even during exams, I stuck to my routine. It helped me stay focused and disciplined—not just physically, but mentally too.
Q: That’s impressive—balancing academics and physical training. Was it challenging?
Akshara: Definitely, but it also helped me manage stress. Physical activity kept me energised during exam preparation. I think students often underestimate how important fitness is for academic performance.
Q: Your initiative connects education with real-world experiences. Is that something you strongly believe in?
Akshara: Yes, absolutely. Education shouldn’t be limited to textbooks. Experiences like this teach resilience, problem-solving, and adaptability. These are just as important as academic knowledge.
Q: What are your future aspirations?
Akshara: I’m very interested in robotics and artificial intelligence. I want to work in a field where technology can solve real-world problems. This trek is also part of that mindset—thinking differently and pushing boundaries.
Q: Your family is accompanying you. How important has their support been?
Akshara: Very important. My parents and sister have always encouraged me to dream big and stay disciplined. Having them with me on this journey makes it even more special.
Q: What message would you like to give to students across India?
Akshara: Don’t limit yourself to marks or conventional paths. Work hard, stay curious, and try to do something unique. Education is not just about scoring—it’s about exploring your potential.
Akshara’s journey comes in a year when ICSE results saw a remarkable 99%+ pass rate nationwide. Yet, her story stands out—not just for academic excellence, but for reimagining what learning can look like.
As she prepares to take a classroom to the Himalayas, one thing is clear: for this young achiever, the sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.
