Achievements
“As Head Girl, I had to plan, speak, coordinate, and most importantly – listen”
A CBSE Topper from Apeejay School, Kharghar, reflects on how student leadership shaped her confidence and why she believes non-science streams are the future
With a stunning 97.6% in the CBSE Class 12 board exams, Madhyarla Mahathi, a Commerce stream student at Apeejay School, Kharghar, isn’t just a topper – she’s also a confident leader and changemaker. As the former Head Girl, Mahathi reflects on how her time in student government sharpened her confidence and communication skills, and why she believes non-science streams are rising as the future of education.
In this conversation, she talks about her growth, her stream, and what truly defines student leadership.
Did student leadership influence your academic success?
Absolutely. As Head Girl, I had to plan, speak, coordinate, and most importantly – listen. That role boosted my confidence and helped me manage my time better. I learned how to handle stress, balance multiple responsibilities, and stay focused. These qualities helped me throughout the board preparation. Leadership isn’t separate from academics – it adds to it.
What are some key lessons from being part of the student council?
One of the biggest lessons was teamwork. We had to represent student voices, work with teachers, and ensure school events ran smoothly. I also learned how to speak up respectfully, resolve conflicts, and carry responsibility. The experience truly prepared me for life outside school.
In your opinion, what makes a good student leader?
Someone who listens more than they speak. A leader must be approachable, inclusive, and committed. It’s not about being perfect – it’s about showing up for others and handling both appreciation and criticism gracefully.
Please tell us about your choice of subject stream Commerce
Commerce genuinely excites me – especially subjects like Business Studies and Economics. I think there’s still a myth that only science leads to “serious careers.” But that’s changing. Commerce opens up doors to finance, law, entrepreneurship, marketing – the list is long. I believe non-science streams are the future because the world now values creativity, innovation, and economic thinking just as much as technical skills.
