In a world increasingly dominated by distractions, the simple act of reading can feel like a lost art. For many, including sophomore student Sareena Naganand from Piscataway, New Jersey, finding time to immerse oneself in a book presents a significant challenge. On February 1, 2026, Naganand reflected on her struggle to engage with literature amidst the demands of academic life, sparking a broader conversation on the importance of reading in personal growth and understanding.
Naganand’s experience highlights a common dilemma for students today. While studying Biomedical Engineering, she finds herself caught between the pressures of coursework and the desire to escape into fictional worlds. As she read Kelly Rimmer‘s historical fiction novel, The Things We Cannot Say, the unexpected death of a character jolted her from the surrounding noise of the Student Center, reminding her of the emotional power of storytelling.
The profound connection between reading and personal development has been a recurring theme in Naganand’s life. She recalls how books like Born a Crime by Trevor Noah and When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi shaped her understanding of life and the world around her. Such narratives not only entertain but also inspire critical thinking and empathy, essential qualities in today’s interconnected society.
Reflecting on her past, Naganand remembers the joy of getting lost in stories during her middle school years, particularly with The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. This deep engagement with literature fostered her interest in history, particularly regarding World War II and its aftermath. She acknowledges how this literary exploration led her to seek out additional resources, such as online museum pages and articles, to expand her knowledge of the subject.
Yet, the current academic environment poses challenges to this engagement. Naganand notes that the omnipresent distractions from social media and various online platforms often detract from her ability to focus on reading. The constant reminders of assignments and study obligations create a mental barrier that interrupts her narrative immersion.
As she grapples with this self-imposed pressure, Naganand recognizes that her reading experience doesn’t have to be confined to lengthy novels. She suggests that even shorter articles, such as those found in The New Yorker, can provide valuable insights and inspiration throughout a busy day. This shift in perspective allows her to appreciate the smaller moments of reading without the guilt of not fully dedicating time to it.
Ultimately, Naganand emphasizes the significance of reading in shaping her values and motivations. She attributes her understanding of potential career paths at the intersection of medicine, innovation, and the humanities to the influence of literature. Books like The Secrets Between Us by Thrity Umrigar have not only painted vivid images of distant places like Mumbai but have also served as a source of inspiration for her creative writing.
As she continues her academic journey, Naganand’s reflections remind us of the enduring power of storytelling. In a fast-paced world where time is often scarce, the ability to engage with narratives—whether through novels, essays, or articles—can provide not only an escape but also a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us. As she eloquently puts it, reading is what got her to where she is today, and it remains a vital part of her ongoing story.
