‘Once an Apeejayite, always an Apeejayite’

This astute engineer who now works with a multinational corporation is grateful to his strong academic background in his journey from trials to triumphs. Meet, Ujjwal Gaur, who completed his class 10^th from Apeejay School, Saket, in 2010. Gaur shares that his school has always had his back by providing a strong academic foundation, fostering essential soft skills as well as encouraging exploration.

Read edited excerpts of Gaur’s interview in which he shares about his school life and more:

Tell us about yourself

Born and brought up in Delhi, I’d spent my initial 12 years of schooling at Apeejay School, Saket. I passed out from Class 10 as second highest ranker. I also completed my graduation in Electrical Engineering from Jamia Millia Islamia post which, I went on to pursue my MBA from IIM Lucknow. 

Tell us about your school life.

My academic journey began from nursery, where I developed a strong foundation in core subjects and a love for learning. Throughout my elementary years, I consistently excelled in my studies, laying the groundwork for my academic success in the years to come.

Share a few nostalgic memories from Apeejay?

Ah! Apeejay would not be Apeejay without the Annual Day celebration! Those were some of my most cherished memories. The entire school would come alive with excitement in the weeks leading up to the big event. We’d have rehearsals after school, sometimes even during lunch breaks. The camaraderie amongst classmates was incredible, everyone working together towards putting on a fantastic show. It felt like a secret mission – “Operation Awesome Annual Day Performance!” There was definitely a thrill associated with those “official bunks” from regular classes, knowing we were putting in the extra effort to create something magical. Looking back, it wasn’t just about the performance itself, but the entire journey of preparation, the friendships forged, and the sheer joy of being part of something bigger than ourselves.

How were the teachers at Apeejay?

The teachers at Apeejay were fantastic! They were not only knowledgeable and passionate about their subjects, but also approachable and invested in their students’ success. They created a positive and supportive learning environment. In fact, many of them became mentors and even friends, which made the school experience even more enriching.

What is your dream and goal in life?

I’m a lifelong learner who thrives on new challenges and experiences. My dream is to continue to learn and grow throughout my life, both personally and professionally. I aim to be adaptable and embrace opportunities that allow me to develop new skills and contribute to meaningful endeavours

Any message for the students of the school.

The school days were some of the best years of my life! Embrace all that Apeejay has to offer – the academics, the extracurricular activities, the friendships. Challenge yourselves, step outside your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. The teachers at Apeejay are there to guide you and support you every step of the way. Most importantly, cherish the journey! The memories you make at Apeejay will stay with you forever. Soak it all in, make the most of every opportunity, and never lose sight of your dreams. The future is bright, and this school has equipped you with the tools to achieve anything you set your mind to.

Your comments on the brain drain trend.

Brain drain, the emigration of highly skilled professionals, presents a complex challenge. While countries lose valuable talent that hinders economic growth and innovation, there can be some silver linings. Remittances, money sent back home by emigrants, can be a significant source of foreign currency for developing nations. Additionally, skilled professionals abroad can act as bridges, fostering knowledge transfer and collaboration between their adopted and home countries. Additionally, offering competitive salaries, good work-life balance, and opportunities for professional development can incentivize skilled individuals to stay. By addressing the root causes of emigration while capitalising on the potential benefits of a global workforce, countries can navigate this complex issue.

How did Apeejay help you hone your skills?

Apeejay provided a strong academic foundation, fostering critical thinking, analytical abilities, and a thirst for knowledge. The curriculum, coupled with dedicated teachers, equipped me with the necessary core skills to excel in my further studies and professional life. The school provided unique opportunities that boosted my confidence and broadened my horizons. My experience with the Leadership & Cultural exchange trip to Thailand is a prime example. It instilled in me a sense of adaptability, intercultural understanding, and the courage to step outside my comfort zone – all valuable assets for personal and professional growth.