Exploring Interacting Galaxies: Nikhil De’s Everyday Routine

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Diego Casanova, Reporter

As he gazes into the ethereal beauty of the heavens, Nikhil De ’18 ponders. He ponders his existence, his purpose, his future. For the past 13 years, he has exhausted himself, pouring every last drop of his being into academics, music, and athletics. For the past 13 years, he has told himself that his work will culminate in a grand finale as he receives that elusive and respected piece of paper upon that stage; however, he feels doubt.

“Even though I don’t really know what I want to do, I am excited to have such an open journey ahead of me” says De.

He has no idea what the future holds for him, but he knows it holds opportunity. Dangerous, prosperous, sweet opportunity.

In academics, Nikhil De flourishes, spellbound by the vast fields of science and mechanics of math. His love of learning is rivaled only by his love for music. He has mastered the violin and has made All-State Orchestra for the past two years, mostly due to his hard work and determination during his time at Fort Worth Country Day. This prowess in the art of harmonious chords has also transferred to the guitar, which he studies on the side. As a matter of fact, he has become so skilled at his secondary instrument that he plays in the school band, despite not being enrolled in the class. However, it has been a woeful two years for De in athletics. Tragedy struck all three seasons of his sophomore and junior year, which were riddled with injuries.

Nevertheless, De is happy. Recently, he has spent his days studying astrophysics with a Texas Christian University professor and researching the wonders of the universe, specifically the interactions of relatively-close galaxies. He continues to play the violin and the guitar, and he is looking forward to another successful year in class. Most importantly, he sees an endless road of opportunities in front of him, and he will keep exploring until he discovers his passion.