‘School is where leadership skills take root’

She is, at present, working as a software engineer at Amazon and will complete five years with the organisation this year. She spent nearly four years with Amazon India and has been working with Amazon US for the past year. Returning as a guest at Apeejay School, Sector 15, Faridabad, was a deeply special and emotional moment for her. She studied here until Class XII, so she practically grew up in the school.

“Returning to the school felt like coming home,” shares Ambika Sadhu in a candid interview, among other things.

What memories came back when you entered the school?

Several childhood memories came flooding back. I remembered the joy of receiving scholar badges, the disappointment of not securing the marks I expected, and the time spent with my teachers and peers. What surprised me most was that I still remembered the entire school song by heart. As the children sang it in the auditorium, I recalled how we used to sing it during almost every assembly.

How did your school years shape your personality and professional journey?

The school gave me a platform to learn continuously, make mistakes, and grow. I still laugh when I remember how much I used to worry about losing even one mark in an exam. Yet the sincerity and discipline I developed here paved the way for where I am today. We often believe that we need to work hard only until Class XII. However, sincerity, discipline, and core values remain equally important in our professional and personal lives. Irrespective of the marks I secured, these qualities have shaped my journey.

Looking back, I realise that my leadership abilities and communication skills emerged from those opportunities. These qualities eventually distinguish us from others. I am grateful that the school helped us grow into confident leaders.

What has changed at the school, and what still feels familiar?

The infrastructure, facilities, and certain parts of the building have changed. Some of my teachers have retired or are no longer associated with the school. However, the spirit of the school remains intact. Its emphasis on discipline, academics, participation, and providing students with varied opportunities still feels the same. Although I returned after many years, I could still sense the strong feeling of community and connection that had endured over time. I am grateful to the teachers and the Principal for preserving these values.

How did the school function compare with those held during your time?

I did not notice much difference. The only real change was that I was seated in the front row instead of among the students in the audience. The school song, prayer, lighting of the diya, and the positive manner in which the ceremony began brought back many memories. I truly appreciate the school for preserving its culture and traditions over the years.

Is there a particular lesson or experience from school that has stayed with you?

It’s hard to talk about a particular lesson because there have been so many of those. But one fundamental thing that the school has shaped for me is the mindset to take a step even when you are not perfect. In my school days, I felt I was able to take part in so many competitions and activities, even when I wasn’t confident. But my teachers always encouraged me to leap, and it is something that has stayed with me even now.