He is an advocate with a vision to resolve all differences and settle matters amicably. Meet Vipin Rathee, who passed out of Apeejay School, Saket in the year 2000. In a candid interview this adept professional shares his recollection of some sentimental memories at school.
What are you doing professionally now?
Well, I’m trying to help litigants in the court of law and sometimes I try to settle their matters amicably out of court. Being a panel lawyer of government departments, agencies, and PSUs I defend their interests too.
What does a typical day look like?
I get up early at around 6 in the morning. Prepare briefs of the cases listed. After having breakfast, leave for the court at 8-8:30. From 10-2-2:30 pm I appear in different courts and do arguments, file documents, and other miscellaneous work. From 6:30-10 pm, I do all sorts of research and drafting work.
Tell us about your school life.
My school life was a learning experience. Most importantly, it is the place where I recognised my uniqueness and individuality. Initially, I was a shy, selectively extrovert person but all credit goes to my alma mater for developing confidence and inculcating values in me which is still helping me out in my personal as well as professional life. The knowledge, experience, and memories, I owe it all to my incredible school life.
Share a few nostalgic memories from Apeejay?
It has indeed been an unforgettable journey that will remain in my heart for eternity. My school life was filled with lots of excitement and love. It made me understand the value of time management. Most importantly, I earned a few friends here who will be there in my life forever. School trips during summer and autumn break were unforgettable with those friends. Playing the role of teacher on Teacher’s Day and participating in sports and other activities with teachers was fun. Farewell was the most emotional moment when we bid adieu to our alma mater. I would that school days were the best part of my life.
How were the teachers at Apeejay?
It’s difficult to describe our teacher’s role in words. They played a pivotal role in shaping our lives by appreciating, criticising, and rebuking us. They used to act like friends, counselors when we were stressed and tried to resolve our issues be it personal or related to academics. Whenever we demanded extra classes for concept clarity, the teachers were more than happy to conduct them. It showed their eagerness to help the students and these fundamental concepts were deeply embedded in our minds.
What is your goal in life?
My dream and goal in life is to help our society evolve with change to make a perfect utopian world where information, independent thoughts, and freedom are promoted; the natural world is embraced and revered; and citizens embrace social and moral ideals. Most of these values were inculcated in me during my school days and then only I decided to become a Civil Servant to serve society.
Any message for the students of the school.
My message to school students is “learn as much as you can while you are young, since life becomes too busy later” as quoted by Dana Stewart Scott. Accept criticism by teachers with grace as they are blessings in disguise wthatwill help you in achieving your dreams. The values, and knowledge imbibed by you in your school days will help you in the future to overcome conflicts and resolve problems in day-to-day life. Never feel shy or scared to ask teachers to clear your fundamental concepts. Teachers are here to help you out and never feel hesitant. Even if you have personal problems you can seek valuable advice from them for redressal.
How did Apeejay help you hone your skills?
I feel privileged to have Apeejay as my alma mater. It’s like my second home where I learnt all the qualities of becoming a good human being. The values inculcated in me during my school days are unmatched. It made me a person of impeccable integrity which is required when I deal with government departments and ministries. I still remember that our Biology teacher once discussed the Theory of Survival of the Fittest. We all are following this policy by evolving every day by acquiring new skills, and knowledge to remain in the system. I give all credit to my school for the success achieved in life so far.