Mumbai, May 13 – Excellence isn’t an act, but a habit — and few exemplify that better than Samara Thettayil, a student of Carmelite Convent English High School, who has emerged as one of Maharashtra’s brightest academic stars with a phenomenal 99.60% in the SSC (10th Standard) Board Examinations, the results of which were declared earlier today.
With near-perfect scores and grace beyond her years, Samara’s achievement is not just a number — it’s the result of consistency, clarity of purpose, and quiet determination. Her success is already inspiring students across the city, and rightfully so.
In an exclusive interview with Journalist Rhea Dadinath, moments after the announcement, Samara shared, “This moment feels surreal. I’ve worked hard, but I never imagined I’d come this far. I owe so much to my school, Arihant Academy, my teachers, and my parents.”
Known among her peers for her academic brilliance and calm composure, Samara balanced rigour with rhythm. “I stayed consistent from the beginning. My goal was never to top, but to do my best every single day,” she said.
Her study strategy? Smart, focused, and built on understanding rather than rote learning. “I revised regularly, used my weekends to solve papers, and ensured I stayed mentally healthy. I didn’t study 12 hours a day, but I made every hour count. The key is to study smart and not hard.”
When asked what kept her grounded during the stressful exam season, Samara smiled, “I kept time for things I loved — I am fortunate enough to have a big backyard where my neighbours and I chill when we are free, sometimes I just scroll on Instagram. Breaks are important. You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
Samara’s favourite subject is Mathematics, and she plans to pursue a career in Commerce. She’s also deeply curious about how things work and hope to one day contribute meaningfully to the world through innovation and knowledge. She mentions on a funny note how she shares a “love-hate relationship with science and physics mainly.”
A proud student of Carmelite Convent and Arihant Academy, Samara credits her school for shaping her both academically and emotionally. “Our teachers were phenomenal — they believed in us and pushed us to believe in ourselves. The discipline and values I’ve learned here will stay with me forever.”
Speaking to Sister Brinal Gareal, the Vice Principal of Carmelite, she was all praises about Samara, “She is so hardworking and always has been good at sports, and was also head girl last year. Very fortunate to have taught her.”
Her parents, too, played a crucial role. “They never pressured me. They believed in balance — and me.”
As the celebrations begin, Samara remains grounded and grateful: “This is a milestone, not the finish line. I want to keep learning, keep growing, and stay curious.”