‘Even today, humming the school song, Soaring High Is My Nature, fills me with pride’

Meet Dr Anupama Srinivasan, an alumna of Apeejay School, Nerul, whose childhood dream of becoming a doctor became a reality. Today, she is a distinguished dental specialist and private practitioner in Chennai. From serving as head girl at school to earning international qualifications, she continues to embody the Apeejay School spirit of excellence, integrity, and lifelong learning. 

Let’s read how…

Tell us about your current professional journey.

In Class III, we were asked to write about our ambitions, and I knew even then that I wanted to be a doctor. I would secretly sign my textbooks as Dr. Anupama Srinivasan, imagining the future I hoped to create. Looking back, I am grateful to the teachers and friends who saw my passion, encouraged it, and helped me pursue it. Today, I am a BDS, MDS (Oral Medicine, Diagnosis & Radiology), Fellow, and Master in Orofacial Pain, Temporomandibular Disorders, and Dental Sleep Medicine (USA), and a private practitioner in Chennai. 

What are some of your fondest memories of your school?

School was my second home. Our teachers were strict yet incredibly caring, and they made us feel secure with their warmth and affection. My fondest memories are of sharing lunch boxes, laughter, and endless banter with friends. I also remember sneaking into the medical inspection room with fake stomach aches when we forgot a notebook and hearing the familiar refrain, “Class, I want pin-drop silence! This is not a fish market!” echoes through the classrooms. I miss those carefree days and cherish the teachers who shaped them.

How did your years at the school help shape your personality, values, and work ethic?

I was initially an introvert, but gradually gained confidence through debates, oratory competitions, and plays, winning several awards along the way. A turning point came when I won the Best Debater Award at a YMCA competition in Navi Mumbai. My teachers saw potential in me that I had not yet recognised and constantly encouraged me to aim higher. Their support helped shape me into an independent, confident, and grounded individual. One memory that remains close to my heart is the “Honesty Shop,” whose lessons in integrity have influenced my decisions throughout life.

Share some key milestones from your professional journey that you are particularly proud of.

My professional journey was not as smooth as I had imagined, but it ultimately unfolded well. I pursued BDS, earning several scholarships along the way, and after a two-year personal break, completed my postgraduate studies in oral medicine and radiology with a gold medal. I also received best paper awards at both college and national-level symposiums. A year later, I started my private practice, which has grown successfully over the years. Two years back, driven by a desire to keep learning, I pursued a fellowship and a master’s in orofacial pain in the USA, an experience that has significantly transformed my approach to patient care. I am also proud to have contributed to several publications in reputed scientific journals.

What challenges did you face while building your career, and how did you overcome them?

It was maintaining a healthy work-life balance. I wanted to be the primary caregiver for my children, so I reduced my working hours and established my practice close to home to manage both responsibilities effectively. Another challenge was staying professionally updated while working independently. To ensure continuous growth, I made it a point to pursue at least one online course every year, helping me stay current and keep learning throughout my career.

How important do you think qualities like empathy, communication, and perseverance are in the field of healthcare?

Empathy, honest communication, and integrity are essential qualities in healthcare. While doctors may not always have all the answers, they must do their best for every patient and communicate clearly and compassionately. Perseverance is equally important, helping one navigate demanding situations with resilience and consistency. 

How do you stay updated with the latest advancements and innovations?

I attend conferences, seminars, and online lectures, most importantly, by reading regularly. I make it a point to spend at least half an hour each day reading about my specialty. Even on my busiest days, I try to read for at least five minutes. It may seem small, but those few minutes still make a meaningful difference. 

 What does being an Apeejay alumnus mean to you today?

I am extremely proud to be an Apeejayite. Even today, humming the school song, Soaring High Is My Nature, fills me with pride. Passing out as the head girl remains one of my most cherished achievements. I am deeply grateful to the school for nurturing my potential, celebrating my small victories, and giving me the confidence to dream big. I fondly remember all my teachers, many of whom I still recall vividly from my primary school days.