Durga attended Harvard Secondary School Programme with flying colours

This summer TISB's Grade 12 student, Durga, attended courses at the Harvard Secondary School Programme in 'Political Economy of Russia and China' (4 credits), and 'Introduction to Comparative Politics' (4 credits). Durga recently received her grades from the courses; both As - the equivalent of a 4.0 GP.

"I am immensely grateful to TISB. Without the school's constant and unrelenting support, this would not have been possible." - Durga, Grade 12.

Durga is very passionate about Political Science, and believes that these two courses have given her wonderful insights into studying college-level Political Science. The opportunity gave her the chance to interact with resourceful and enthusiastic professors during lectures and seminar sessions; learning about research interests of PhD students and Teaching Assistants at Harvard during the courses; as well as to interact with students – both of same age and those much older than herself.

"Introduction to Comparative Politics gave me a holistic view about how and why different political systems developed in different places and at different time periods. Political Economy of Russia and China delved into the current political-economic stance of the two countries in issues swaying the global arena and how their pasts shape important decisions now", Durga explains. She continues: "Both courses were taken by high school, undergraduate, and graduate students from around the world - even those studying in Harvard currently."

Due to the pandemic, the courses were conducted online, vide Zoom Video Conferencing, where Durga attended 12 hours of lecture per week, with additional discussion seminars with Teaching Assistants to delve deeper into concepts that lessons covered. Because of the time difference, classes took in late evenings - between 6PM -9PM and 9:30PM – 12:30AM (IST). This did not stop Durga: "There were regular debates in class that I loved to participate in and insightful discussions that we carried into sections. I could access the course material, syllabus and reading lists as Harvard made available its entire Library virtually - which I found extremely resourceful. It conducted a series of discussion-based programs and workshops, that I actively took part in. These resources and opportunities ensured all students an experience that most resembled the on-campus curricular and extra-curricular experience."

The courses kept Durga busy and entertained during the summer, and have given her the chance to explore her interest in political studies on a deeper and broader level. "I truly enjoyed the entire experience, because it allowed me to broaden my horizons of learning and understanding and it brought me closer to the subject that I love. It introduced me to exemplary thinkers in the field and case studies that I found both enjoyable and rigorous. I would certainly recommend this to any student who is extremely fervent about the subject. It was a very rigorous and memorable summer!", says Durga.

Read more about the Harvard Secondary School Programme, and find out how you can explore your interests like Durga.