TalesOfTradition: ‘I trusted my teachers then; I trust them for my child now’

He is an investment banker with INCRED Private Wealth. He manages the investment side and handles a portfolio of around Rs 3,000 crores. His clients typically have portfolios ranging from Rs 10 crores to Rs 100 crores, and he works with about 110 clients. Meet Sooraj Saini (batch 2008), an alumnus of Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park. Interestingly, his daughter, Tullika, is also studying in the same school.

In a candid interview, he explained how his long association with the school influenced his decision to have his daughter enrolled here, among other things.

What drew you back to this one?

My entire schooling was at this school, from nursery to Class XII, so I already had a strong connection with it. I was very fond of my teachers, and that experience stayed with me. At the same time, my parents were quite strict and always trusted the teachers, and I see myself following a similar approach today. That overall experience is what made me want my child to have the same environment.

Did your long association with the school influence your decision?

Absolutely. I have been associated with this institution for a long time. I even met Dr Stya Paul during my school days. I feel a strong emotional connection with the Apeejay family. I had always imagined that, after marriage, my children would study in the same school.

Is there any memory from your school days that stands out?

I went through many ups and downs. I was not a very bright student, to be honest. But my teachers consistently worked on improving me every single day. That effort had a lasting impact on me, and I wanted my child to experience the same kind of support.

Are there any lessons from school that still guide you?

The school motto has stayed with me deeply. I still remember it and believe in its essence. I want my daughter to embrace the same spirit and to feel that everything she does in her education should help her grow.

Is there something from your school life you would want your daughter to experience?

I was the Sports Captain in classes XI and XII, so I would like to see her grow into leadership roles, maybe even become part of the Prefectorial Board. I was also part of the Rotaract Club and participated in CSR activities. I would want her to experience that same sense of social responsibility and emotional connection to such initiatives.

Was there a teacher or mentor who guided you?

Yes, one of the most influential figures was our then Principal. We were petrified of her in school. Whenever she walked through the corridor, there would be complete silence. That kind of discipline is rare today, but I still teach my daughter to respect every teacher. Every teacher plays a role in shaping a student’s future, and that respect is important.

Has that shaped how you see teachers and their effort today?

Yes. My wife teaches Chemistry in senior classes. When I see the kind of effort she puts in for her students and the pressure she handles, it reminds me of what my teachers must have done for us. I have also seen many of my teachers, who have passed away during COVID-19. So I feel that respect for teachers is critical because they are always making efforts to help you grow in your education and career.