Alumni Speak
‘My art teacher always pushed me to do my best’
Alumna shares how her experiences at Apeejay School, Noida shaped her passion for art and inspired her career in design
Apeejay School, Noida, has always been a nurturing ground for creativity, and alumna Dhwani Jain, Batch of 2025, is a shining example of how the school’s supportive environment can shape a student’s future. Now pursuing a Bachelor’s in Design with a specialisation in Communication and Film Design at IIAD (Indian Institute of Art and Design), Dhwani reflects on her school journey, the teachers who inspired her, and the lessons she carries into her burgeoning career.
What made your school experience at Apeejay special?
I had the best time in school because of the incredibly supportive teachers and my close-knit group of friends. My class teacher in 12th was always there for me, offering guidance whenever I needed it. Then there was my art teacher who treated me like her own child. She always encouraged me to explore my creativity and nurtured my artistic talent in a way that made me feel confident and valued.
Dhwani fondly recalls participating in inter-school painting competitions, one of which she won first prize. My art teacher recognised my potential early on and always pushed me to do my best. She would personally choose me for competitions and shared her experiences in art and design, which helped shape my thinking. Her trust and encouragement made me certain that art would be my future.
How did your passion for art evolve into a career aspiration?
Art has always been a part of me. Even though there were moments when I doubted whether I should pursue design, my teacher’s guidance kept me focused. Through art, I learned patience, self-control, and persistence. These qualities are essential not just in creating art but also in life. Art teaches you when to pause, when to push forward, and the value of perseverance, lessons that have influenced my approach to both design and personal growth.
How has the transition from school to college been for you?
College life has been refreshing and quite different from school. Sometimes, I do miss the school environment, the structured curriculum, the lively classrooms, and the daily interactions with teachers and friends. But Apeejay has given me the confidence to navigate challenges, adapt to new environments, and embrace opportunities with optimism.
What specific lessons or skills from school have helped you in college?
Apeejay taught me to never give up and to seize every opportunity. My experiences in art competitions, combined with the mentoring from teachers, strengthened my resilience. Even small experiences, like working on projects with peers or receiving feedback from teachers, taught me valuable lessons about collaboration, observation, and self-expression – skills that are vital in design.
