‘My teachers have left an indelible positive mark on my character’

She dons a multifarious persona- a dancer, theatre artist, and psychology student, which is no mean feat.  Meet Aan Parashar, an alumnus of the 2022 batch from Apeejay School, Faridabad. In a candid interview, she walks down memory lane sharing how her baby steps converted into a leap of faith at her alma mater.

Read edited excerpts here.  

What are you doing professionally now?

I’m at present, pursuing live theatre – stage plays and street plays, as part of my passion, I am the General Secretary of my college’s theatre society. I am also a full-time psychology major student enrolled in BA Psychology Honours, at Kamala Nehru College, Delhi University.

How were your days at Apeejay School? 

I miss the camaraderie of school days. The laughs that I had with my peers, the encouragement from my teachers and most importantly that thrill of performing on my school’s stage. My school days were truly special, they have shaped me into who I am today. It is my days at school that have brought a sense of confidence in me, for both academics and my creative pursuit.

How were the teachers? 

My teachers played a significant role in shaping my school experience, both as a dancer and a student. It’s miraculous how some of the teachers supported my passion while others encouraged my learning. The ones who stood by me left a lasting impact and those are the connections which will stay with me for life. Whenever I meet them, I get a chance to express my gratitude for their support and lessons. I value the foundation which they helped me build for my future.

Share any nostalgic memories from school. 

The most nostalgic memory of mine that still brings so many emotions to life is when I used to stand backstage before my performance, preparing to perform in front of my peers and teachers. I can still feel that era of emotions, that happiness, excitement, the fear and that incredible adrenaline rush coursing through me. It was such an incredible moment knowing that I was going to step out and showcase my passion. That is the feeling that I’ll always treasure.

What are your dreams and aspirations? 

As cliched as it might sound, I aspire to be kind to people, someone who has a sense of empathy and respect for living souls. When it comes to dreams, I dream of becoming a successful human being in the field of Psychology. With that, I would like to continue my passion, which is dancing and theatre. If I get a chance, I would like to teach whatever I have learnt in the future.

What’s your advice to students of the school?

I would like to share this message with the juniors of the present generation who are still in school: I hope you grow to be more generous, more aware of your surroundings, more helpful, and more sensitive to what others may be going through. It’s important to show kindness and understanding in a world where everyone is navigating their challenges.

I also want to encourage you to stick to your passions. While I understand that this generation faces intense competition, especially in academics, it’s equally vital to balance that with pursuing interests outside the classroom. Whether it’s sports, dancing, acting, yoga, exercising, or any other co-curricular activity, engaging in what truly excites you will not only enrich your school experience but also help you grow as an individual.