Interviews
BuildingFutureLeaders: ‘I have learnt discipline at this school’
A tennis player from Apeejay School, Saket, reflects on his journey and his dream of becoming world No. 1
He is at present studying in Class 12 and pursuing the Commerce stream. His biggest interest and passion has always been tennis. Playing tennis is not just a hobby for him; it is his dream. His aspiration? To become the world number one tennis player. Meet Priyank Kaushik, who joined Apeejay School, Saket, in the nursery.
In a candid interview, he shares how the school has shaped him beyond academics.
What are some of your earliest memories of school?
My early school days were very enjoyable and carefree. There was no pressure of studies back then, just learning and making friends. One memory that stands out is from an Annual Day when I won a prize in Class IV. Celebrating that moment with my friends made it very special for me.
How has the school shaped you beyond academics?
From nursery onwards, school has played a big role in shaping who I am today. In the early years, I attended school regularly. Later, when tennis became more professional for me, I spent less time on campus because of practice and tournaments. The school supported me by allowing me to come late, sometimes around 10 or 10.30 am. That understanding made a huge difference in balancing both academics and sports.
How did the teachers support you academically?
My teachers, especially from Class VI onwards, helped me a lot in academics. They always knew about my involvement in sports and supported me in all subjects. The school understood my journey as a sportsperson and guided me accordingly. The teachers made extra efforts so that I could keep up with my studies despite my training schedule.
How would you describe your relationship with your teachers over the years?
My relationship with my teachers has grown stronger with time. Earlier, it was different when I was younger, but now there is a much deeper bond. Whenever I have doubts, I call my teachers, and they are always ready to help. I feel comfortable approaching them, and that support has meant a lot to me.
What are some of the most important values or skills you have learnt here?
One of the most important things I have learnt is discipline. It has helped me not only in my studies but also in my life as a sportsperson. I truly believe that discipline is something I learnt because I studied at Apeejay School.
What lessons from tennis have helped you as a student?
The game has taught me time management and consistency. Being regular and following a routine is very important in sports, and consistency is the key to improvement. These lessons have helped me a lot in managing my studies along with my training, especially now that I am in Class XII.
Did the school help you discover any new interests or strengths?
When I chose commerce in Class XI, I did not like Accountancy. I found it difficult and uninteresting. But with the guidance and support of my Accounts teacher, I slowly began to understand the subject. The way my teacher explained things and counselled me helped me realise that the subject is interesting.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself?
I would tell myself to spend more time in school. Now that I am in Class 12 and only two to three months are left, I realise how important these moments are. School life passes very quickly, and I wish I had spent even more time enjoying it.
