‘Apeejay gave me freedom to take opportunities & explore’

Aastha is pursuing her Integrated B Tech and M Tech in Biotechnology from Apeejay Stya University (ASU), Gurugram. To quench her thirst of curiosity, the 22-year-old joined ASU and took on the challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Currently, she is working at The Simple AI, a next-generation consulting firm, where she began as an intern before transitioning into her current role. In this interview, Aastha reflects on her University journey and her path into consulting.

Read edited excerpts: 

What are the two best parts about the University?

For me, it’s the hostel experience and the opportunities. Hostel life gave me some of my best memories and taught me independence. Alongside, the University gave me plenty of opportunities to take initiative, from Rotaract to organising events and taking on responsibilities.

How does the University help you pursue your hobbies and goals?

It gives you a platform and the freedom to explore. If you have an idea or an interest, there’s usually a way to turn it into something real. That helped me explore my interests while also figuring out what I wanted professionally.

How do teachers help you develop different skills?

They don’t just give you answers, they give you responsibility. Being trusted to handle things independently taught me to think, communicate, solve problems and, most importantly, take ownership.

How has the University changed you as a person and added to your growth?

Apeejay Stya University has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I have become more confident, independent and much less hesitant about putting myself out. I have also learnt that sometimes you just have to take the opportunity and figure out the rest along the way.

What new skills have you learned at Apeejay?

Confidence, initiative and ownership. I’ve learnt to speak up, take responsibility and not wait for someone else to make the first move.

Where are you working, and how did you prepare for this offer?

I’m currently working at The Simple AI, a next-generation consulting firm. I actually started there as an intern and transitioned into my current role. My biotechnology background gave me the foundation, while university helped me build the communication, research and problem-solving skills I needed to step into consulting.

What are your future aspirations?

I want to become a consultant and go far in the industry. I’d like to combine my biotechnology background with strategic thinking, keep learning and eventually work on problems where life science meets business.