Khandelwal singing notes in STEM

Why did you apply to be a Red Jacket?

Coppell High School senior Rhythm Kandelwal wears a blue and pink ribbon in her hair representing her achievements in Coppell Band. Outside of Red Jackets, Khandelwal is involved in Coppell Band, Technology Science Association (TSA) and taekwondo. (Angelina Liu)

In eighth grade, I was deciding whether to go to New Tech or the freshman center. The Red Jackets were giving a tour of the school. I wanted to be in the same position as them to let other students choose to come to this school. I think they were a really good representation of what Coppell has to offer.

What extracurriculars are you involved in?

I’ve been a member of the band for over seven years, part of Technology Science Association (TSA) for three years, danced outside of the school for 14 years, taekwondo – I’m a black belt- and I used to swim.

If you could meet any historical figure, dead or alive, who would you meet and why?

I would meet Princess Diana. She’s a really cool person. I think she’s a very inspiring figure to a lot of people. A lot of people really feel that she’s representative of Royals who actually care. I’d want to meet her and see how she would fix things that are happening right now in not only America but around the world.

What are your hobbies?

I really like to sing. Recently, I opened an Instagram account (@rhythym.sings) to sing. I also really like reading again; I haven’t had much time this year to read. Some of my favorite books I’ve read were honestly when I was younger because they inspired me to have an actual imagination. Another hobby that I have [is] I really like walking, going to trails and biking.

What is on your bucket list?

I want to do a summer program in another country when I’m in college. Another thing I want to do is skydive. I want to dye my hair a different color once I’m in college.

What is your most prized possession?

Ribbons from band. The blue one is for being state-bound. And then the pink one is for being a senior, and they’re just a reminder of everything you’ve done in band.

Describe your ideal day.

I would naturally wake up around 7:30 a.m. in the morning. Usually, I always have some sort of meeting in the morning. I would have some time to finish some homework. After that, I’ve got all my classes and everything and then once I come home, I want to finish all my homework first and then I will probably watch a show that I really like and then read a book and then go to bed.

What are you most thankful for?

I am thankful to live in a country that has so many opportunities for STEM for women. My parents are from India. My mom shared an experience with me that I’ll never forget. When she didn’t get the opportunity to get the job that she wanted only because she was a woman, I realized how privileged I was to be in America, where I could apply to be any major. And while I would obviously still face some struggles, it’s not as much as other countries.

What is your dream concert?

I want to go to BLACKPINK.

What three items would you take with you on a deserted island?

My phone, saltwater to freshwater converter and an SOS signal.