Ishita Pandey
Ishita Pandey is an Indian author, youth leader and advocate for social impact, environmental sustainability and community welfare. She has written two published books titled A Window to the World of Wonder and Dream Big Fly High: 55 Journeys to Inspire Young Minds, both of which reflect her creative imagination and inspirational writing style. Alongside her literary journey, she has actively contributed to society through impactful social service projects, awareness campaigns and youth engagement activities.
Her participation in the global John Locke Essay Competition earned her multiple Certificates of Merit across History, Politics and Philosophy securing recognition for her analytical writing and academic insight. Beyond authorship, Ishita has been deeply involved in charity drives, elderly care, cataract surgery fundraising and the promotion of eco-friendly living practices.
Early Life and Education
Ishita Pandey was born and raised in Kota, Rajasthan, India. She attends Jayshree Periwal International School, Jaipur, where she has been actively involved in academic, creative and community-oriented initiatives. She completed her IGCSE with 7 A*s and 2 As, and is pursuing the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
She completed a creative writing program at Somerville College, Oxford which further enhanced her literary skills. Her academic interests include digital storytelling, activism, history, philosophy and social issues.
She is currently pursuing higher studies at the University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, at the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Ishita continues writing while studying abroad, contributing articles and opinions to USC’s publication platforms and participating in media, research and youth-based engagements.
Authorship and Publications
Ishita began her writing journey at a young age, publishing her first novel during high school.
A Window to the World of Wonder (2023)
A fantasy-adventure novel published by Maple Press featuring three protagonists embarking on magical quests across mythical worlds. The story blends imagination, courage and emotional discovery, encouraging readers to explore the unknown and believe in inner strength - Available on Amazon.
Dream Big Fly High: 55 Journeys to Inspire Young Minds (2024)
A motivational anthology highlighting stories of global achievers including Elon Musk, Malala Yousafzai, Helen Keller and others. Published by Maple Press, the book crossed over 1,000 sales within four months Available on Amazon.
Start Young, Think Big: 55 Stories of Teen Changemakers
Features 55 stories of teen achievers who made social impact around the world Available on Amazon.
Profile Summary
| Full Name | Ishita Pandey |
| Profession | Author and Student |
| Genre | Inspirational Literature, Non-fiction, Children and Teen Learning |
| Alma Mater (School) | Jayshree Periwal International School, Jaipur |
| Current Institution | University of Southern California (USC), Los Angeles, USA |
| School at USC | Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism |
| Published Works | A Window to the World of Wonder; Dream Big Fly High; Start Young Think Big |
Awards and Recognition
- Certificate of Merit – John Locke Essay Competition (History, Politics, Philosophy)
- Selected for award ceremony shortlisting internationally
- Recognized for academic writing excellence
Media Recognition and Notable Highlights
Kota's daughter Ishita Pandey secured admission into the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, USA under the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. During her academic visit, she presented her published books to USC President Beong-Soo Kim and Dean Willow Bay, earning appreciation for her creative and literary contribution.
Her achievements are considered a matter of pride for Kota and Rajasthan, inspiring young students to pursue global education. She contributes articles to USC’s media verticals and continues expanding her presence in journalism and youth writing.
Community Service and Social Impact
- Raised Rs 70,000 for cataract surgeries of 10 underprivileged patients
- Organized meal drives for abandoned elderly at Apna Ghar Ashram, Kota
- Distributed jute eco bags for 7+ years promoting sustainability
- Managed YouTube content for SuVi Eye Hospital
- Created health awareness and digital hygiene campaigns
Research and Academic Work
- Digital Storytelling in Activism: Transforming Voices into Movements
- A Journey from Visionary Beginnings to a Bright Future (IOL Evolution Study)
- Breaking the Silence: The Urgent Need to Protect Female Resident Doctors
Leadership Experience
- Internship with Energy Minister of Rajasthan
- Event organizer for IB League programs
- Consultant at student social-cause clubs
- Founder of The Trivia Wizards youth quiz group
- Volunteer in eye care and senior support initiatives
Skills and Interests
Creative writing Event management Recycling advocacy Research and analysis Youth engagement Storytelling
Contact
- Email: ishitapandey@gmail.com, suvieye@gmail.com
- Phone: +91 93514 12449
- Website: https://www.ishitapandey.com/
External links
Gallery
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A defining moment of joy and pride-presenting my books A Window to the World of Wonder and Dream Big, Fly High to Mr. Stephen Davies, Oxford Summer Course Director, at the historic Somerville College, University of Oxford. Sharing my journey as a young author in a place that has nurtured literary greats was both humbling and unforgettable.
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I had the honour of being invited to the John Locke Global Essay Award Ceremony held in London, United Kingdom, on September 21, 2024-an unforgettable moment in my journey as a young writer. Pictured Left to Right: Ishita Pandey, Dr. Jamie Whyte (Chairman of Examiners), Mr. Martin Cox (Director General), and Hon. Liz Truss, Former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.
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A proud moment-receiving the Certificate of Merit in Politics, History, and Philosophy from Mr. Martin Cox, Director General, at the John Locke Global Essay Award Ceremony held in London, United Kingdom.
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A dream transformed into reality-celebrating my admission to the University of Southern California (USC), home to the world-renowned Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Draped in cardinal and gold, I proudly embraced the legendary "Fight On" spirit of the Trojan Family-a symbol of grit, unity, and endless possibility. This moment wasn't just about a college acceptance-it was the culmination of years of hard work, unwavering support, and an unshakable belief in the power of storytelling.
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A dream transformed into reality-celebrating my admission to the University of Southern California (USC), home to the world-renowned Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. Draped in cardinal and gold, I proudly embraced the legendary "Fight On" spirit of the Trojan Family-a symbol of grit, unity, and endless possibility. This moment wasn't just about a college acceptance-it was the culmination of years of hard work, unwavering support, and an unshakable belief in the power of storytelling.
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A cherished memory with my classmates of Class 12, Section F at Jayshree Periwal International School, Jaipur-a group that shared not just lessons and laughter, but also dreams, challenges, and unforgettable moments. This photograph captures the spirit of friendship, resilience, and youthful ambition that defined our final year together.
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A proud and emotional moment at the Graduation Ceremony held at the Upper Auditorium, IBDP Block of Jayshree Periwal International School, Jaipur. Standing beside the stalwarts of our institution: Anvita Chaturvedi Madam (DP Coordinator), Dr. Jayshree Periwal Madam (Chairperson), Aakriti Periwal Madam (Academic Director), and myself-Ishita Pandey-I felt a wave of gratitude for their constant guidance and belief in me.
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A moment frozen in time-April 6, 2025, my Graduation Day. Standing proudly between my parents, Dr. Vidushi Sharma and Dr. Suresh K. Pandey, and the pillars of the institution, Mr. Ayush Periwal Sir (CEO) and Aakriti Periwal Madam (Academic Director), this photograph symbolizes not just the end of a chapter, but the beginning of a promising new journey filled with hope, purpose, and passion.
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Ishita Pandey with her parents, Dr. Suresh Kumar Pandey and Dr. Vidushi Sharma, after securing admission at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA.
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Ishita Pandey with University of Southern California, Los Angeles, USA President Mr. Beong-Soo Kim
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Ishita Pandey with USC Annenberg School Dean Professor Willow Bay.
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During the prestigious Rajasthan MedEx Award ceremony, Ishita Pandey was honoured with the Young Author Award by none other than the eminent doctor, author, and actress Dr. Aditi Govitrikar. Adding a special touch to the occasion, Ishita presented her inspiring book "Start Young, Think Big: 55 Stories of Teen Changemakers" to Dr. Govitrikar — a moment filled with pride, purpose, and the power of youth.
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Sincere thanks to the Urban Herald team, Mr. Rishabh Bhargava, Mr. Mohit Bhargava, and the entire team for creating a platform that celebrates young voices and changemakers. Ishita’s journey is a powerful reminder that age is never a limitation — when dreams are big and purpose is strong, even the sky is not the limit.
Books
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A Window to the World of Wonder
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Dream Big, Fly High: 55 Journeys to Inspire Young Minds
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Start Young, Think Big: 55 Stories of Teen Changemakers