#2. A TJ Alumnus STEM Journey: Lessons in Learning, Leading & Giving Back.

Learning by Design

In this inspiring episode of Learning by Design, Krishna and Kyla sit down with Kunal Saxena, a proud alumnus of Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (TJHSST), who was once a student and is now a mentor at Young Scholars Circle LLC/The Masterpiece Academy.

Kunal shares his real-world experiences navigating rigorous academics, STEM competitions, hands-on research, and the transition to college. From test prep and math competitions to writing research papers and mentoring younger students, his story is full of insight and encouragement for anyone on a learning journey.

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring STEM students, parents, educators, and anyone who values resilience, mentorship, and meaningful relationships in education.

Summary

Kunal reflects on how his early educational experiences, strong mentorship, and family support shaped his passion for STEM and fostered his personal growth. He discusses how TJ’s challenging curriculum helped build his academic discipline, how research opportunities expanded his understanding, and how college gave him the freedom to take charge of his learning. Along the way, he emphasizes the importance of writing, collaboration, and staying motivated in the face of challenges. His story offers guidance and encouragement for students striving toward excellence.

Key Takeaways

• STEM is about more than skills — it’s about problem solving and communication.
• Early exposure to writing and math builds long-term academic confidence.
• Mentorship helps students realize what they’re capable of.
• Strong writing skills are crucial in STEM fields.
• Facing academic challenges builds long-term resilience.
• Hands-on research creates deeper engagement with learning.
• Peer and teacher relationships shape the learning experience.
• Time management is a vital life skill, especially in college.
• Family support offers both emotional and practical support.
• Internships are valuable real-world learning opportunities.
• Failure is not the end — it’s part of the process.
• Learning is a lifelong process, and students should embrace the journey, not just the outcome.

Sound Bites

“Listen to your parents.” “I love problem solving.” “I just loved math.” “Research itself was the biggest part.” “It's gaining other people.” “There's a lot more freedom.” “You have so much control over this.” “Learning is a process.” “If you're dedicated, you keep at it.”

Episode Chapters

00:00 – The Passion for Problem Solving How a love for problem solving became the foundation for Kunal’s STEM journey.

02:55 – Early Years and Building Foundations Discovering the impact of writing, early math, and mentorship at Young Scholars Circle.

05:55 – The Journey into STEM The role of curiosity, coding, and competition in shaping Kunal’s academic drive.

08:56 – Experiences at TJ Initial struggles, academic rigor, and how Kunal adapted to TJ’s high expectations.

12:01 – Research and Growth at TJ From fieldwork with salamanders to data analysis with university mentors.

14:59 – Standout Moments and Relationships Why the friendships and teacher bonds at TJ mattered more than just grades.

17:59 – Transitioning to College and Evolving Perspectives Adjusting to the pace, flexibility, and freedom of college life.

26:27 – Transitioning from High School to College Life How TJ prepared Kunal for college, and what caught him off guard.

29:16 – The Importance of Time Management Learning to balance workload, self-care, and opportunities.

31:51 – From Learner to Mentor Returning to The Masterpiece Academy to inspire the next generation.

36:28 – The Role of Family in Education How parents and home values grounded his growth and confidence.

41:36 – Advice for Aspiring Students Real talk on setbacks, friendships, and how to thrive academically.

45:14 – Internships and Future Career Paths From classroom to career — how teaching led to a tech opportunity.

49:19 – The Learning Process and Overcoming Challenges Why perseverance, self-reflection, and flexibility are everything.