Geetanjali Arora is an alumna of Apeejay School, Mahavir Marg, Jalandhar. She went on to pursue her B Com professional degree from Apeejay College of Fine Arts, Jalandhar (ACFA). Currently, she is working as an officer in Punjab National Bank. In a brief telephonic interview, the banking officer says the pandemic was the toughest time she has faced on duty: Read edited excerpts:
What all work does an officer at the Punjab National Bank have to do?
I have to do everything, from savings to loans, all work that is allotted to me. I work 8 hours. It is in the offline mode. So, I have to go to the bank everyday. I had to even report to duty during the pandemic.
Bank officials risked their lives during the pandemic? Your thoughts from those days?
During the pandemic, we were all scared, more about our families. We were all frontline workers. Though the customer visits were less at the bank, we still gave our best services, we did our work. At one time, we even contracted Covid, but fortunately that phase has passed now!
Special memories from Apeejay days?
Apeejay school days were the golden days of my life. I was a part of my volleyball and badminton team, then the best art and craft student, four times in a row. At ACFA, I was the Vice-Head girl and also a merit holder during graduation.
One life lesson for current students?
Be confident. Do your best and success will chase you.
One finance tip for youngsters?
Do as much saving as you can. Start from the small. Small amounts for mutual funds or open your PPF (Public Provident Fund) account during college days. It will pay you immensely later.
One improvement in the banking industry you look forward to?
Like foreign culture, all Saturdays should be off (laughs)!