Sumeet Gulati ’19 is known on campus for his energetic Bhangra dance performances with the Indian Heritage Club.
He began dancing when he was six years old, and cites it as having a profound impact on his life. He believes Bhangra helps break down stereotypes and educate people about the Punjabi culture.
“It gives the community an opportunity to understand how vibrant our heritage is,” said Sumeet. “Instead of just generalizing, they truly begin to understand what we stand for and what we believe in.”
Sumeet regularly volunteers with local Indian community organizations where he comes together with students from across the county to teach and choreograph Bhangra as well as perform.
“My choreography comes from listening to music,” said Sumeet. “I have watched a lot of Bhangra videos and have learned from professional dancers too, so that gives me a lot of creativity to come up with new steps and blend steps together to create something totally new.”
Sumeet joined the Pine Crest School family as a fifth grade student and says he felt immediately welcome.
“I remember most new students having one Panther Pal, but I had two, Mark Rozencwaig ’19 and Jared Orenstein ’19,” said Sumeet. “Mark, Jared, and the other students helped make my transition to a new school seamless and remain some of my best friends today.”
Sumeet is also known for his broadcast journalism work. He elected to participate in PCNN beginning in sixth grade, having little idea about what he was getting into. While in Middle School, he was mostly behind the scenes working as a videographer. It was not until he joined PCTV in Upper School that he realized reporting in front of the camera was his hidden talent.
“I enjoyed the challenge of taking a complex story and boiling it down to concise, engaging copy that had to be delivered in 60 seconds or less,” said Sumeet. “I know the skills I acquired through PCNN and PCTV will serve me well in college and beyond.”
Sumeet plans to attend Nova Southeastern University in their dual admission program in the fall. After completing his undergraduate degree, he will continue to medical school where he intends to study nephrology.
While at Nova, Sumeet hopes to establish a Bhangra dancing team and will continue serving as a teacher and role model to young people in the community.
Pine Crest students and teachers believe in him and are grateful for the profound impact on the School community!