‘Stay curious and open-minded’

The encouragement that she received from teachers to ask questions and think critically shaped her curiosity, which later translated into her interest in management and analytics. More than anything, the school taught her to balance academics with extracurricular activities, which has stayed with her throughout college and now in her master’s. Meet Kavya Sailani, an alumna of Apeejay School, Kharghar, who passed out from the school in 2020.

In a candid interview, she talks about her career aspirations in Human Resources, her interest in people analytics, and her goal of creating inclusive, employee-focused organisations.

What inspired you to pursue a Master’s in Management Science at the University of Texas at Dallas?

I chose the Master’s in Management Science at the University of Texas at Dallas because it offers the perfect blend of analytics and management. My passion lies in using data to solve business challenges, and the program’s strong focus on analytics stood out immediately. At the same time, I value flexibility, and UTD allows me to shape my degree with diverse electives in strategy, operations, and HR. This balance lets me build technical expertise while aligning my studies with long-term career goals.

How do you think your background in HR will influence your approach to management science?

I view management science through both data and people. Analytics drive decisions, but I emphasise empathy, communication, and culture. This balance ensures I focus not just on efficiency and metrics, but also on how choices impact employees, teams, and overall organisational morale.

How did your experience at Apeejay School Kharghar shape your interests and passions?

It gave me a very holistic foundation. It was never just about academics, but also about exploring different talents and building confidence. From participating in competitions to being part of cultural activities and leading the school as captain, I learnt the importance of teamwork, communication, and leadership.

Advice to present Apeejayites.

Stay curious and open-minded. Build a strong academic base, but also participate in activities that sharpen soft skills like communication and teamwork. For those looking to study abroad, plan, research programs carefully, prepare for standardised tests, and develop clarity about your career goals. And most importantly, don’t be afraid of challenges; every step, even the tough ones, adds to your growth.

How do you subscribe to the motto: Soaring high is my Nature?

It means striving for the next milestone while staying grounded in my values. It’s about not limiting myself to comfort zones. Whether it was actively participating in school activities, taking on responsibilities during my HR role, or now moving abroad for my Master’s, I have always tried to aim higher while carrying forward the values instilled in me at Apeejay School.

Fond school memory.

Some of my fondest memories are participating in Inter-school competitions and enjoying overnight camps with my friends. Those moments gave me a sense of belonging, taught me teamwork, and created bonds that I will cherish forever. Another very special memory is that my mother was my teacher in Class X. Learning from her guidance not only deepened my bond with the school but also helped me score the highest in Board exams, making it one of the most memorable milestones of my life.