My name is Tejesvi Patel and I recently graduated with a Masters in Science Degree Chemistry. My master’s thesis was on “Preparation of Hydrogel Using Biodegradable Polymers and Investigating the Miscibility, Drug Release and Adsorption Behaviour”.

When I completed my undergraduate degree in 2019 from the University of the South Pacific, the world was in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many recent graduates, I found myself facing a future filled with uncertainty. It was during this time that my future supervisor, Dr. David Rohindra, suggested I consider perusing a Postgraduate Diploma in Chemistry. At the time, I saw it as a way to stay engaged and continue learning, but I could not have anticipated the doors it would open. The PGD became more than just an academic step forward—it laid the foundation for what would become my Master’s research project.

Throughout this journey, Dr. Rohindra and the polymer research group were a constant source of support and inspiration. Their passion for research and unwavering dedication to students had a profound influence on me. Under Dr. Rohindras guidance, I learned not only how to design experiments and interpret data, but also how to think critically, stay resilient, and remain curious in the face of setbacks. He didn’t just supervise me—he inspired me to believe that curiosity could change the world.

One of the most defining moments of my Master’s experience was being selected to present my research at the Falling Walls Science Summit in Berlin, Germany. To stand on an international stage, among some of the world’s brightest minds, was both humbling and empowering. It was a moment of validation—not just for the work I had done, but for the decision to pursue a path I hadn’t originally planned for.

Looking back, my Master’s journey wasn’t just about Chemistry. It was about resilience, serendipity, and learning to laugh when everything went a bit sideways (because in science, it often does). It’s about finding purpose in the unexpected, and hope in the midst of global uncertainty.

To those who may be standing where I once stood—uncertain about the future—I offer this: sometimes, the most rewarding journeys begin with a single, unplanned step. Embrace the unknown, remain open to growth, and surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you.

I would like to end by thanking my friends (Akuila Ravunawa, Dhivesh Naidu, Shimneet Chand) and family (Mr. Nagin Patel, Mrs. Ramila Patel and Mr. Brehant Patel), who have been a pivotal foundation throughout this journey. Their unwavering encouragement, patience and belief in me gave me the strength to keep going, even during the most challenging moments. This achievement is as much theirs as it is mine.