Anshu Shines
Meet Anshutha, or Anshu, as she’s fondly known by her friends. Anshu’s story is one of resilience, determination, and a smile that lights up any room. She’s a familiar face around campus, recognized not only for her warm demeanor but also for her incredible ability to make nearly anyone smile. But behind her confidence lies a journey of growth that didn’t happen overnight.
Before joining MSB, Anshu relied on an assistant to help her navigate through her school day. Tasks like writing and participating in classroom discussions required support. However, with the help of MSB’s technology experts, her world began to change. Anshu was introduced to assistive technology, which enabled her to dictate her words and complete her schoolwork independently. The sense of pride she feels today comes from the empowerment of doing things on her own, a reflection of her unwavering determination to overcome challenges.
Music has played a transformative role in Anshu’s journey at MSB. Recognizing her unique talent for auditory memory, Ms. Lynnie, the school’s music teacher, encouraged her to embrace and nurture this passion. For the past ten years, Anshu has been diving deep into the world of Indian classical music, and for the past three years, she’s been learning to play the harmonium and kartal. Check out Anshu’s singing in the video below.
Her parents, Krishna and Radhika, have been her biggest cheerleaders, watching her grow and devote herself to this art form. Anshu practices every day, steadily building an impressive repertoire of songs. Her dedication recently culminated in a stunning performance at a school concert, where she sang an Indian song. Despite her initial nerves about singing for a predominantly English-speaking audience, Anshu’s performance captivated everyone. Many of her peers and their parents expressed how deeply moved they were by the music, even though they didn’t understand the language. It was a moment that highlighted the power of music to transcend barriers, and Anshu stood proudly at the center of it.
While Anshu shines brightly in the spotlight, she’s equally impressive behind the scenes. Over the past school year, she’s gained valuable experience working at the student-run Rock N Roll Café, where she developed skills in various aspects of food service. This experience gave her a newfound sense of independence and confidence in her abilities.
This summer, through a job coaching program, Anshu took her talents into the community, working at a local restaurant. She eagerly tackled tasks like assembling takeout boxes and rolling silverware, always willing to pitch in wherever she could. Each task, no matter how small, is helping her build real-world experience and confidence in her abilities, setting the stage for a future filled with independence and purpose.
Anshu’s story is one of perseverance, growth, and the courage to create a life beyond what she once thought possible. Whether she’s making music, working in a café, or tackling new challenges in the workplace, Anshu approaches everything with heart, passion, and an inspiring determination. Her journey is a testament to the power of self-belief and the impact of a supportive community that encourages students to rise to their full potential.
