A Summer of Growth: Inside and Out (Summer '25)

When people ask me how my summer went, I find myself smiling. This wasn’t a summer filled with airports or new countries. It was something far more important, a season of discovery, healing, and transformation. I indulged in new interests like cooking pasta or making matcha ice cream and I healed myself mentally and physically, and focused more on myself with all the free time

For the first time, I truly discovered gardening. It started with a few pots on the balcony, but soon I found myself checking on my plants each morning as if they were old friends. In the quiet moments of watering and transplanting, I found peace. Who knew that something as simple as soil and sunlight could calm a restless mind?

This homework blog, oddly enough, introduced me to blogging itself, and I found I had so much to say! I began expressing my thoughts online, and for the first time, I felt heard.

Of course, I didn’t stop there. I enrolled in multiple online courses and extracurricular activities, building both skills and confidence. I even set up my own LinkedIn profile, connecting with teachers and classmates. It made me feel... professional. Like I was preparing for the future, one step at a time.

Not everything about this summer was easy, though. I broke off a friendship that had been weighing me down for far too long. This person constantly belittled me, made cruel jokes, and even hurt me — both emotionally and physically. Walking away wasn’t easy, especially as he was a good friend before and it had been four years, but it was necessary. Letting go of toxic people is painful, but it’s also freeing.

Thankfully, I had my real friends: the ones who make me laugh until my stomach aches. We made silly jokes, talked for hours, and just existed together. No pressure, no judgement.

I also got back into Minecraft - not just for fun, but as a way to explore creativity. I built an entire city, unintentionally learning about architecture in the process. Who says video games are a waste of time?

Academically, I saw real progress in my extra coaching classes. It felt good to understand difficult concepts that once confused me. Each improvement was a reminder that I’m capable of more than I think.

There were also moments of joy outside the house — family outings, fine dining (my favorite!), and even unexpected adventures. While cycling one day, I saw a cat staring into the bushes. When I stopped to fuss over it, I realized it was frozen in fear — a huge python was nearby, crushing a rat. I quickly called security. That moment reminded me how life can surprise you when you never expect it to. 

Another milestone: I was finally old enough to join the gym. At first, I was nervous. But now, it’s a part of my daily routine - and I feel better about my body and my physical health.

Looking back, this wasn’t just a holiday. It was a journey. I didn’t travel anywhere, but I went a long way. I healed, mentally and physically. I grew. And for the first time in a while, I feel ready, truly ready, for the school year ahead.

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Written by Tanay Raj Gowda

All Photography Courtesy of Tanay Raj Gowda