Simrat Walia

  

Volume 9 | Issue I | March 2025

Basis Independent Silicon Valley ’26

California, USA

  

My fascination with history and politics began at a young age when I explored how the past shapes the present. Stories of empires rising and falling, impactful historical influencers, and the resilience of communities under pressure captivated me. From antiquity to the modern era, Europe’s diverse and intricate past offers a plethora of subjects ripe for scholarly exploration. Over time, my interests focused on the Balkans and Eastern Europe, regions rich with complex accounts of conflict, culture, and transformation. Though I plan to study anthropology or psychology, a mix of art and science, I remain interested in the effects of historical conflicts on modern political systems and their role in shaping global perspectives. At school, I serve as Vice President of the Science Research Group, editor of the school science journal, and a member of the Model United Nations club. Additionally, I was an octa-finalist in the 2022 National History Bee. Publishing my essay with The Schola has been a rewarding experience and my first significant academic research endeavor. The process of analyzing historical records, synthesizing perspectives, and refining ideas has taught me the value of persistence and precision. By examining Montenegro's resistance to Ottoman dominance, I have developed a profound understanding of the role historical narratives play in shaping the identities and political landscapes of nations today. I hope to offer insights into how historical events influence contemporary politics. Outside of academia, I enjoy creating 2D art, reading genre fiction, and engaging in community projects at local and regional levels.