Master of Her Own Fate: 13 Year Old Begins Postgraduate Study

While most 13-year-olds are settling into secondary school, Sushma Verma was already on her way to earning a postgraduate degree in microbiology—defying age, gender norms, and economic hardship in the process.

Originally from Uttar Pradesh, India, Sushma rose to international attention for enrolling in a Master of Science program before most students even begin Year 9. But her journey was about more than just academic talent—it was made possible through sacrifice, resilience, and an unwavering belief in the power of education.

From High School to Higher Education—All Before Her Teens

Sushma completed high school by age 7 and earned her undergraduate science degree before turning 14. In a country where access to education—especially for girls in low-income communities—can be limited, her achievements are exceptional.

Her story shines a light on what’s possible when curiosity is nurtured, and barriers are removed. But it also reveals the challenges that often accompany academic success under difficult circumstances.

The Cost of Learning: A Family’s Sacrifice

Sushma’s family of six lives in a modest single-room apartment. To finance her studies, her father, a sanitation worker, sold their only plot of land for ₹25,000 (about AUD $420)—far below market value. Despite discouragement from others, he made the decision based on principle: to support his daughter’s potential regardless of gender or convention.

In many traditional settings, a daughter’s education might be seen as secondary to that of a son—especially if the family already has one academically gifted child. But in Sushma’s case, her parents made a different choice: they encouraged her ambitions, even at personal financial cost.

Talent Runs in the Family

Sushma’s story isn’t an isolated case in her household. Her older brother earned a degree in computer science at just 14, adding another chapter to the family’s remarkable academic journey. But what makes Sushma’s path even more extraordinary is the social context—being a young girl in a male-dominated academic and cultural environment, and still being empowered to thrive.

What We Can Learn From Sushma’s Journey

Sushma’s achievements are the result of more than just intelligence. Her story reflects the life-changing impact of:

• Supportive family and mentors
• Access to education despite economic constraints
• Perseverance in the face of cultural and systemic barriers
• A commitment to long-term growth over short-term comfort

It’s a powerful reminder that when opportunity meets support and determination, remarkable things can happen—regardless of age, gender, or background.

Inspired to Learn or Support Someone Who Is?

You don’t need to be a prodigy to pursue your goals. Whether you’re exploring science and health, teaching, IT, or business, there are flexible online courses to help you start (or restart) your learning journey—at any age.

And if you’re a parent or mentor, remember that your encouragement matters. Support, belief, and access to the right resources can help someone unlock their full potential—just like Sushma.