“My school taught me to think beyond the obvious”

From shooting hoops on the basketball court to facing trigonometry problems in class, Saiyam Anand’s school years at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park were filled with formative moments. Now a budding civil engineer at VIT, he fondly credits his school for instilling the values of intellectual curiosity, discipline, and vision that guide him to this day.

Tell us about the spark of learning during your school life.
My favourite subject was always mathematics. I had excellent math teachers throughout the years who made me fall in love with problem-solving. That played a big role in my career choice. Apeejay Panchsheel Park really gave me the freedom and tools to explore what I loved.

Were you active outside the classroom too?
Absolutely. I was very active in sports—especially badminton and basketball. Even today, I continue to play badminton at VIT. It’s a habit that keeps me grounded.

How would you describe the influence of your school in shaping you?
Apeejay Panchsheel Park gave me more than just academics. It gave me a mindset—a way of looking at the world. The atmosphere helped me develop a strong intellect and an open mind. It truly groomed me into who I am today.

Was the idea of becoming an engineer formed in school itself?
The idea started forming in Class 9 and became clear in Class 10 when I chose PCM. That’s when I knew I wanted to become a civil engineer.

What excites you the most about civil engineering?
Civil engineering combines technical knowledge with creativity. It’s not just about construction—it’s about building safe, sustainable, and beautiful structures. We learn how to make buildings smarter, especially using innovations like AI and eco-friendly materials.

Any teachers you’d like to thank?
Yes, several of them. Apart from my math teachers, there were other mentors who motivated me and gave me clarity—not just by teaching, but by encouraging me to aim high.