Alumni Speak
‘I learnt punctuality, discipline, and hard work from school’
Apeejay School, Noida alumnus says that the teachers here were excellent and good human beings
After completing his Class XII at Apeejay School, Noida (batch 1997), he got selected for the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. After his MBBS, he went on to do his specialisation as a paediatrician. He trained at Max Hospital and Apollo Hospital, but since 2007, he has been in full-time private practice based in Delhi. Meet Dr Sahil Virmani.
In a candid interview, he shares some of his fond memories from the school, among other things.
Why did you choose paediatrics as your field?
There is a strong personal reason behind it. My parents are doctors, so medicine was always part of my environment. Over time, I felt naturally inclined towards becoming a child carer. It simply clicked for me, and it remains very close to my heart.
What are some of your fond memories from the school?
I remember my teachers very clearly. There were some excellent teachers and wonderful human beings. We had a lot of fun in school. At the same time, the school always emphasised excellence and hard work. Those early lessons in sincerity and effort have stayed with me.
How did your school prepare you for a demanding field like medicine?
School life was quite disciplined. We followed a strict schedule, and values like punctuality and regular attendance were taken seriously. These habits helped me prepare for and crack the pre-medical exam. I strongly believe that hard work is the key to achieving anything.
What values did you learn during your school years?
The key values were punctuality, discipline, and hard work. Beyond that, I learnt that success in any career requires authenticity and dedication. You need to stay true to yourself and always strive to excel in your chosen field.
What qualities are important to become a good paediatrician?
You need to understand human values deeply. Patience is essential. You have to be compassionate and genuinely love your field. In my 15 to 16 years of practice, I have seen how demanding this field can be. Children may be unwell and uncomfortable, and parents are often anxious or emotional. You must be able to handle these situations with empathy and remain calm. Above all, patient care must come first.
How do you manage work-life balance in such a demanding profession?
It is definitely challenging today. I start my day early, usually around 5:30 am. I make sure to spend about an hour or more on physical activity. It helps calm the mind and prepares me for the day. I also try to spend time with my family whenever possible. I always advise younger people to dedicate at least an hour to their health and well-being. It helps manage stress and maintain balance in a high-pressure environment.
