Girl overcomes financial hardship, bags 6 gold medals from Mysore University

A young woman from Bedrodi, Puttur, has achieved stellar academic accolades despite facing tough times. Smita, whose family struggled financially, couldn’t even afford a mobile phone for online classes during COVID-19. But that didn’t stop her. She topped in the master of social work (MSW) course at Mysore University’s 104th convocation, bagging six gold medals and two cash prizes.

Smita’s parents, Vimala and Bharat, work hard to make ends meet. Due to their dire straits, her parents initially wanted her to work for daily wages, but her lecturer Nandish encouraged her to pursue higher studies. Smita’s Mom once asked if she could take a break from studying because she was always buried in books. That’s how dedicated Smita was to her education.

Her dedication paid off, making her college and family proud. She thanked her parents, friends, and teachers for their support, especially Nandish Y D from Mysore University and another lecturer Nandish from her college in Uppinangady where she pursued her BSW degree. They helped her get scholarships, which kept her education going, she said.

College staff at Uppinangady even arranged a smartphone for her during the pandemic so she could attend online classes, she added.

Despite the tough times, Smita didn’t give up. She continued her studies and achieved a rank at the Mysore University’s 104th convocation, bagging six gold medals. She’s now an assistant researcher at Premji Foundation in Kalaburagi.

Smita’s story is one of determination and hard work, inspiring many.