Award-winning author graduates after standout Heriot-Watt journey
After making an outstanding contribution to campus life, a Heriot-Watt University student graduating this summer has been recognised for her positive impact on the University.
Award-winning author and MSc student Jaanvi Joshi has received the Principal’s Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Local Community in recognition of her volunteering, student engagement and community leadership.
The award acknowledges students who go above and beyond their studies to make a positive difference to the wider University experience.
The multicultural environment at Heriot-Watt transformed my perspective. It reminded me that education is not only about degrees, but also about learning humanity through people.
Professor Richard A. Williams, Principal and Vice-Chancellor at Heriot-Watt University, said: “Jaanvi’s contribution to our university has been truly exceptional and reflects one of our core values through her commitment to building a flourishing and inclusive community.
“Alongside her academic achievements, she has shown outstanding dedication to supporting others and helping new students feel welcome and connected from the moment they arrive.
“Her generosity of time, energy and compassion has had a lasting impact on campus life, and the Principal’s Award is a fitting recognition of the positive difference she has made during her time at the University.”
Jaanvi arrived at Heriot-Watt University in January 2025 from Jaipur, Rajasthan in India, famously known as the Pink City. She will graduate this summer from the Edinburgh campus after completing an MSc in Economics, Banking and Finance on the Edinburgh campus.
Before arriving in Scotland, Jaanvi had already built an impressive creative and professional profile, having received more than 150 awards for her writing and being named India’s Youngest Poet on two occasions.
Jaanvi said: “Studying in Scotland felt like stepping into a completely different rhythm of learning and life. In India, education often carries structure, discipline, and strong theoretical foundations.
“Here, I discovered a learning environment that encouraged independence, critical thinking, and the confidence to question, discuss, and explore beyond textbooks.
“But perhaps the greatest difference was emotional rather than academic. Moving countries teaches you resilience in quiet ways.
“It teaches you how to build a home within unfamiliar streets, how to find comfort in conversations with strangers who slowly become friends, and how to carry your identity proudly while learning from cultures entirely different from your own.
“The multicultural environment at Heriot-Watt transformed my perspective. It reminded me that education is not only about degrees, but also about learning humanity through people.”
Beyond the classroom, Jaanvi became a familiar and valued presence across campus through her extensive involvement in volunteering and student activities.
She served as a Freshers’ Representative and supported new students as they settled into University life, helping to create a sense of belonging during the transition to higher education.
Throughout her studies, she contributed to a wide range of events including Freshers’ Week, Global Day celebrations, Diwali and Holi events, chaplaincy meals, movie nights, game nights, open mic evenings, cultural society activities and community engagement initiatives.
These activities brought together students from different backgrounds and cultures, helping to build connection and understanding across the University community.
Jaanvi added: “Receiving this recognition felt deeply emotional because behind the award existed a story filled with silent battles, homesickness, pressure, healing, and perseverance.
“There were moments when life felt heavier than words could explain, yet volunteering became my way of giving light to others while searching for my own.
“To be recognised by the University for those efforts reminded me that even the smallest acts of kindness can echo further than we realise.
“Sometimes, the people who are quietly struggling are also the ones trying hardest to make others feel less alone.”
As she prepares to graduate, Jaanvi hopes to begin her professional career within the UK banking and finance sector.
She aims to build a career that combines technical expertise with empathy, leadership and a strong sense of social responsibility.
Alongside her professional ambitions, she plans to continue writing, mentoring and contributing to community initiatives that support others.