‘Apeejay’s industry-aligned journalism program made a huge difference’

Hrushikesh Paatiel, a finance and journalism graduate, began his journey by shifting from science to humanities, where he discovered a love for debates and media. Influenced by leading journalists and real-world exposure, he pursued journalism at School of Journalism at Apeejay Stya University, Gurugram, gaining hands-on industry experience before pivoting towards finance in search of greater freedom and entrepreneurial growth. Read edited excerpts of the interview 

Tell us a bit about your early academic choices.
I began my academic journey by deliberately moving away from science and mathematics. I chose humanities in my higher secondary years, where I discovered my passion for debate and journalism. Influencers like Arnab Goswami and my own participation in school competitions really inspired me.

What made you choose journalism as a career path?
For me, journalism was not just about reporting news—it was about mastering persuasive communication. I saw it as a powerful training ground for building skills critical to entrepreneurship. Being able to clearly articulate ideas and influence decisions is an asset in any business journey.

How did your time at Apeejay help shape your direction?
Apeejay’s industry-aligned journalism program made a huge difference. The hands-on learning, exposure to media tools, and the incredible faculty helped me develop both skill and confidence. It also gave me access to a strong professional network that has proved valuable even beyond journalism.

Can you share some industry experiences you had during your journalism studies?
Absolutely. I interned with International Finance Magazine and worked with publications like Business Today and the India Today Group. These roles taught me the ins and outs of media—from content creation to packaging stories. But over time, I realised that traditional journalism didn’t align with my vision for the future.

What led you to pivot from journalism?
While I valued the experience, I found the limitations in traditional journalism—like restricted pay scales and lack of freedom—too confining. I wanted financial independence and flexibility, which eventually drew me toward the world of trading and finance.