‘My best moments at Apeejay were definitely with my teachers’

Alisha Verma, a proud alumna of Apeejay School, Noida, has recently completed her schooling in 2024 and is now pursuing her studies at Indraprastha College for Women, University of Delhi. Reflecting on her formative years, Alisha credits Apeejay for shaping her confidence, friendships, and passion for academics, particularly in psychology and economics.

In this conversation, Alisha shares her most cherished memories, her bond with teachers, and the valuable lessons she learned during her time at Apeejay. Her story highlights the importance of a supportive learning environment and the vast opportunities available at Apeejay. Read edited excerpts:

Can you share one of your most memorable moments at Apeejay School, Noida?

My best moments at Apeejay were definitely with my teachers. I had a close bond with many of them, especially during the crucial years of 11th and 12th. They supported me academically and personally. I remember one of the highlights was participating in the Annual Day during 11th grade. My friends and I, all part of a dance group, got to return to the primary block for practice, which brought back fond memories of our younger days. It felt like a full-circle moment as we realised how far we had come.

How did your teachers influence your academic choices and career path?

The teachers at Apeejay played a pivotal role in shaping my academic interests. My economics teacher, in particular, was my biggest motivator. She encouraged me to aim high and helped me prepare for competitive exams like CUET. Thanks to her guidance, I am now studying at Indraprastha College for Women. Similarly, my psychology teacher’s approach made learning so engaging that I began to see psychology as a potential career path. I also had the opportunity to participate in the Fortis psychology quiz, which was a great experience.

Did Apeejay offer extracurricular opportunities that helped you grow?

Absolutely! Apeejay provided a wealth of opportunities beyond the classroom. I participated in various sports, starting with racing competitions in primary school, which later led to district-level swimming competitions. In my senior years, I became more involved in football and played in several inter-house competitions. I was also active in the school’s Model United Nations (MUN) and attended various workshops, including career counselling sessions. These activities helped me develop leadership and teamwork skills, which are invaluable today.

How did Apeejay help you grow as a person, especially in terms of confidence?

When I first joined Apeejay, I was quite introverted. But the school provided me with platforms to break out of my shell. Whether it was speaking in front of the entire auditorium during events or participating in group activities, these experiences helped me build my confidence. Over time, I became much more social and outgoing, which has really benefited me in college. I credit Apeejay for giving me the confidence to speak up and interact with different groups of people.

What is the one lesson from Apeejay that you will carry with you forever?

One lesson that will always stay with me is to be open to all opportunities and remain optimistic, no matter the outcome. The school has taught me that it’s not about excelling at everything but about gaining valuable experiences. Whether it was participating in sports, academic quizzes, or extracurricular activities, I learned that trying new things is what truly matters.