The Art of Man-Making: ‘My school exposed me to diverse cultures, fostering empathy, understanding, and appreciation’

Meet Aadya Garg, a Class XII student at Apeejay School, Pitampura. A sports enthusiast, she aims to pursue higher studies at a reputed Delhi University, with a focus on Economics (Hons) or Business Analytics and Data Science, blending her academic interests with a passion for analytical thinking. Aadya shares her experience and happiness after being conferred with the prestigious Dr Stya Paul Award for Human values.

What does receiving the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values mean to you at this stage of your school journey?

Receiving this award at this stage of my school journey is truly overwhelming and deeply meaningful. It has been a moving experience—one that goes beyond achievement and speaks to our shared humanity and the positive impact we can have on one another. 

How do human values shape an individual beyond academics and achievements?

Human values shape an individual beyond academics and achievements. While hard work may lead to success, it is humility that helps sustain it. Skills and accomplishments enable us to make a living, but human values guide us in choosing a life that is truly meaningful and worthwhile.

Can you recall a moment in school when standing by your values mattered more than winning or being right?

A small yet significant moment in school was when I noticed I had been awarded two extra marks. I went to my teacher and asked her to deduct them, because standing by my values mattered more to me than winning, and fairness mattered more than recognition.

Who has been the biggest influence in shaping your value system, and why?

The biggest influence in shaping my value system has been my parents, who have moulded me into who I am today. Not through grand gestures, but through their everyday actions, they taught me integrity and empathy. The consistency between their words and actions has become the foundation of my core beliefs.

How has your school environment helped nurture values such as respect, responsibility, and integrity?

My school environment nurtured values such as respect, responsibility, and integrity through teachers who acted as mentors, consistently modelling accountability and ethical conduct. It also gave me exposure to diverse cultures and backgrounds, fostering understanding, empathy, and appreciation.

As a senior student, how do you try to lead by example for your juniors?

I lead by showing responsibility, integrity, and kindness. By mentoring juniors, fostering inclusivity, owning my mistakes, and staying reliable and supportive, I strive to create a positive and collaborative environment.

Has this recognition motivated you to take up any new responsibility or initiative? 

This recognition has inspired me to take meaningful initiatives—being more empathetic, standing up for what is right, and helping others. It has reinforced my belief that values matter in everyday actions and motivates me to keep improving myself while contributing positively to my community.

As you step into the next phase of your life, which human values do you hope to carry forward most strongly?

As I step into the next phase of my life, I hope to carry forward the values of integrity, respect, and charity. I believe respect must be earned, integrity serves as an inner compass guiding honorable actions, and charity through helping others, supporting causes, or donating time and resources, is a simple yet powerful way to spread kindness and hope.

What message would you like to share with your peers about living with purpose and values?

I would like to share with my peers that living with purpose and values makes life more meaningful and memorable. Purpose gives direction, while values act as an inner compass—guiding decisions, shaping identity, and fostering authenticity—leading to a focused, fulfilling, and healthier life.