Interviews
TalesOfTradition: ‘I proudly say that my daughter is a second-generation Apeejayite’
Watching his daughter study at Apeejay School, Noida, brings back many memories for this alumnus-parent
Watching his daughter study at Apeejay School, Noida, brings back many memories for this alumnus-parent
Published
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His fondest memory was shifting from the earlier school building to the present building. They had a really big playground that was nowhere in any school in Noida back then and bigger classrooms. He used to tease his sister about that as she studied at a different school. Participating in the annual school event, where students, teachers, and parents came together, was also an unforgettable experience for this alumni-parent. Meet Rajeev Raina, whose daughter, Aadya, is also studying at Apeejay School, Noida.
In a candid interview, he shares what made him choose his alma mater for his daughter.
How does it feel to see your daughter study on the same campus where you once grew up?
It feels special and at the same time nostalgic. Watching my daughter study in the same classrooms and walk through the corridors where I once grew up brings back so many memories of my school days. I can proudly say that my daughter is a second-generation Apeejayite.
In what ways has the school changed since your student days, and what has remained the same?
The school has changed a lot since my days in terms of infrastructure, facilities, and emphasis on extracurricular activities for students, which is great to see. But what has remained the same are its core values, discipline, and the warm sense of belonging that made it special during my student days.

What made you choose this school for her?
I chose this school for my daughter because I studied here myself and know the kind of education, values, and environment it offers. This school shaped me in many ways, and I wanted her to experience the same strong foundation.
How did the school shape your career path?
The school provided me with a strong foundation in academics, values, discipline, and confidence. What was especially remarkable for that time was the emphasis on extracurricular activities, be it Newspaper in Education, NCC, dramas, or debates, which opened up opportunities that were otherwise quite rare.
Being encouraged to participate in various events taught me invaluable lessons in hard work, self-belief, and resilience, qualities that have stayed with me throughout my professional journey
How do you think the school is shaping your children’s academic growth and personality?
I think the school is contributing greatly to both my children’s academic growth and personality development. It is giving them a strong educational foundation while also helping them become confident, disciplined, and well-rounded individuals.
Shalini is an Executive Editor with Apeejay Newsroom. With a PG Diploma in Business Management and Industrial Administration and an MA in Mass Communication, she was a former Associate Editor with News9live. She has worked on varied topics - from news-based to feature articles.