Coverage of Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg, Alumni interview in Sugermint

By Abhilasha Munjal: She, at present, serves as a  doctor at  Shrimann Hospital in Jalandhar, specialising in ICU patient care. After completing her high school education, she pursued a medical degree, MBBS, followed by an MD and a diploma in critical care from India.

Meet Radhika Dhawan Khanna, an esteemed alumna of Apeejay School Mahavir Marg from the class of 1998. She attributes her success to the unwavering support she received from her alma mater — Apeejay School.

‘At Apeejay, there’s a deliberate avoidance of spoon-feeding. Instead, children here are encouraged to take charge of their learning journey, fostering independence and a proactive approach to education’ opines Dr Khanna.

In a telephonic conversation, Dr Radhika gave great insights about her exceptional journey at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg, and how it helped her choose the same school for her kids as well.

How was your journey at Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg?
Radhika Dhawan Khanna: My journey with Apeejay has been remarkably smooth, which is why I believe my deep affection for the school has played a significant role in my kids’ enrollment there. There’s something truly special and unique about Apeejay; it fosters the development of leadership skills. I must say, all Apeejayites seem to stand out in a crowd due to their exceptional confidence.

How were the teachers back during your time?
Radhika Dhawan Khanna: They were truly superb. The teaching methodology employed at Apeejay is exceptional, going above and beyond conventional approaches. Their innovative teaching style ensures that students grasp concepts thoroughly and develop a deeper understanding of the subjects. It’s no wonder that Apeejay students consistently excel academically and beyond.

What does your workday looks like?
Radhika Dhawan Khanna: As a critical care consultant, I specialise in treating the most severely ill patients. We aim to provide the best possible care and help them recover to the fullest extent. After work, which typically ends by 5 pm, I relax and often engage in activities like playing chess or helping my kids with their studies.

What do you reminisce the most about your school days?
Radhika Dhawan Khanna: It’s heartening to see that many of my former teachers are still imparting knowledge at Apeejay. Their dedication is truly commendable. I’ve noticed that the majority of Apeejay alumni excel in various fields, reflecting the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Has the school been beneficial in helping you reach where you are today?
Radhika Dhawan Khanna: Absolutely. I owe a great deal to the support and guidance of my school teachers. Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

What motivated you to become a  doctor?

Radhika Dhawan Khanna: Becoming a  doctor was always my aspiration, fueled by the encouragement of my grandparents and parents. My father, a bank officer, and my retired grandmother, who was a Hindi professor at a college, created a supportive environment at home where studying and playing were both valued.

How do you keep up the work-life balance?

Radhika Dhawan Khanna: I spend my evenings at the hospital, but once I return home, I take on the role of teaching my children myself. They don’t have any additional academic support outside of school; the excellent teaching they receive there covers the majority of their learning.

Any additional assistance they need at home is easily understood, thanks to the solid foundation they’ve built at school.

Advice to those who would want to become a doctor
Radhika Dhawan Khanna: Becoming a  doctor requires dedication and burning the midnight oil. However, it doesn’t stop at college admission; the real challenge lies in striving to become not just a doctor, but a truly exceptional one.