‘My school days were a mixed bag of camaraderie and genuine connection’

Each time she thinks about her school, there are happy tears. Words fall short to express her emotions which makes for all the memorable joyful days at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg. Meet Aruna Singh, from the batch of 1980 who gets candid in this interview about how she has come a long way since school but that invisible cord persists.

Read edited excerpts here.

What are you doing professionally?

During my youth days, I became a renowned fashion model. Post marriage, in Chandigarh, in October 2002, I started working as a marketing executive with a Principal Agent of Western Union of India, (M/s. Paul Merchants Ltd ) which was a new and small business organisation, licensed by the Reserve Bank Of India. I travelled and worked across India opened 700-plus branches of the company and made 22,000-plus sub-agents, including a few banks, lots of retailers and big organisations.

I did projects in various countries like the US, Canada, UAE, China, New Zealand, and Thailand. Paul Merchants Ltd, became Western Union’s biggest revenue-generating organisation, across the world, while I was the President. I had to leave the organisation in 2018 because of advanced Stage 4 cancer. However, I continue to work even now, as a Collaborator, Counsellor and Chief Advisor with various organisations.

How were your days at Apeejay School?

My school days were a whirlwind of learning, friendships, and memorable experiences. I loved the sense of community and the thrill of discovering new things every day. Whether it was facing a test, participating in sports, or just goofing around with friends, there was always something exciting happening. The teachers were inspiring, and the lessons learned both inside and outside the classroom have stayed with me. Overall, it was a time of growth, fun, and endless possibilities.

How were the teachers?

My school teachers were a diverse group of dedicated and passionate individuals who played a significant role in shaping my education and character. They had a unique ability to make learning engaging and accessible, each bringing their strengths and teaching styles to the classroom. Some were strict yet fair, pushing us to achieve our best, while others were more nurturing, providing encouragement and support. Overall, they instilled in me a love for learning and a respect for knowledge that I carry with me to this day.

Share any nostalgic memories from school.

One of my fondest memories from school days is our Sports Day and Annual Day functions. The excitement in the air was palpable as students from all grades gathered on the field, cheering for their teams. The camaraderie and team spirit were incredible, and even though I didn’t always win, the sense of unity and fun made it all worthwhile.

School annual functions were more than just events; they were, always, a celebration of our talents, teamwork, and school spirit. Participating in these functions offered us all students a chance to explore our creative sides, build lasting friendships, and create unforgettable memories.

What are your dreams and aspirations?

My dreams and aspirations are to make a meaningful impact in whatever field I choose to pursue. I aspire to be a lifelong learner, constantly evolving and adapting to new challenges and opportunities. I’m passionate about the current project I am working on – to create a skillset for every Indian youth which will provide them with good jobs and services. I hope to contribute to advancements in this area by creating innovative solutions.