SLU student wins soloist award at ICCA regional competition

SLU student wins soloist award at ICCA regional competition

Srija Boddu, a sophomore at Saint Louis University, has earned national recognition for her vocal performance at a regional collegiate competition.

Boddu, a member of the university's Medical Scholars Program, is studying public health with minors in biology and health care ethics. She competed with her a cappella group, Astha A Cappella, in the International Championship of Collegiate A Cappella circuit organized by Varsity Vocals. Astha A Cappella is the university's premier coed fusion a cappella group. Established in 2006, it was founded by six students who performed Indian fusion music.

Varsity Vocals, founded in 1995, provides performance and competition opportunities for high school and collegiate singers, as well as professional feedback and global performance venues.

Astha A Cappella placed second at the 2026 ICCA Midwest Quarterfinal 3 at Missouri State University. Boddu also received the competition's Outstanding Soloist award for her performance of "Chandrachooda."

Boddu has been singing since age 5 and began formal training in Carnatic music, a form of Indian classical music, at that time. She has performed at large events, birthday parties, graduation celebrations and hospice centers.

Before attending Saint Louis University, Boddu earned multiple awards in Indian singing competitions during high school in New Jersey.

At the university, Boddu said she connects her passion for music with its Jesuit mission of service by volunteering with an after-school music program, where she works with younger students.

"I get to pass on what I've learned and hopefully inspire the next generation," Boddu said.