As Jashvi Desai balances research, music stays close

While science and research take up much of Jashvi Desai’s time, the Yorktown High School senior still makes room for music. Known for her leadership, kindness and broad involvement in school activities, she balances her academic commitments with creative pursuits.

Her orchestra teacher, Meghan Ryan, said that when she was a new teacher in Yorktown last school year, Desai made her feel welcome and was one of the first students to reach out, asking if she could help with the yearly Ice Cream Social event held at the end of August.

“Jashvi is an amazing person,” Ryan said. “Jashvi is such an accomplished student.  She is involved in so many things at YHS yet still finds time to always help others."  

Yorktown News caught up with Desai, who shared her musical journey and how she hopes to keep music as a part of her life as she heads off to college.

When did your interest in music begin? My interest in music began when I was really young. It started as something I enjoyed casually—singing with my dad or making pseudo-instruments with my brother—but over time it became a much more meaningful part of my life. Being involved in orchestra and performances throughout high school helped me grow both technically and creatively, and it’s become something I genuinely look forward to as a break from my academic work.

Do you plan to continue in music after high school? Yes, definitely. While I plan to pursue a pre-med track in college, I can’t really imagine my life without music. I hope to stay involved through a cappella or campus performance groups and continue using it as both a creative outlet and a way to connect with others.

Who inspires you? I’m really inspired by people who are able to balance multiple passions and still excel in each of them. That includes mentors, teachers, and even other students who are deeply committed to both their academic and creative pursuits. I also admire artists who use music to tell meaningful stories and create emotional connections.

What makes music challenging? Music is challenging because it requires both technical precision and emotional expression at the same time. It’s not just about singing the right notes. You have to convey something genuine to an audience, which can be difficult but also really rewarding when it comes together.

How do you spend your free time? Outside of school and music, I spend a lot of my time working on my research, reading, and staying active. I also really enjoy going on walks, listening to music, and spending time with friends and family.

What are the top five songs in your playlist right now? My playlist is ever-evolving, but right now I would say the top five songs are “My Way” by Frank Sinatra, “Picking Up the Pieces” by MAAPS, “Soda Pop” by Saja Boys (from KPDH), “Sofia” by Alvaro Soler, and “Est-ce que tu m’aimes?” by GIMS.