The Art of Man-making: ‘The school has taught me to respect everyone’

They are young, dynamic, and intelligent and therefore no longer confined to excelling solely in academics. Their ambition is to make their mark in every field. Anvi Gupta, a Class X (now Class XI) student at Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, exemplifies this spirit. She has been celebrated for her exceptional efforts in promoting human values and making a meaningful impact on society through acts of compassion, empathy, and kindness.

In an impromptu interview, the recipient of the prestigious Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values (academic year 2024-25) speaks about how the school has imbibed human values in her, among other things.

What was your reaction to getting this coveted award?

The news of my final selection for the award filled me with joy. I had earlier taken the test but could not move to the next round. This time, I adhered strictly to the guidelines, which instilled confidence in my selection.

What kind of questions were you asked? 

After I cleared the written test, during the one-on-one interview, I was asked questions like: What values should we incorporate? What kind of values has the school taught us? How would we instil human values among our peers?

Were you a little apprehensive?

For the written test, I was not scared since I had taken the test earlier as well. I was more confident this time – in the written; for the interview, I was a little nervous, but when I sat down and started answering the questions, I was calm.

Tell us about yourself.

I am in class XI at present. My hobbies include reading novels, doing paintings, and playing chess, basketball, and badminton. I also love to spend time with my family and friends. While I am not sure what stream to pursue, I may end up taking Physics, Chemistry, and Math.

What do human values mean to you? 

They are values that are incorporated in all of us. These values are taught to us from the time we are born. Values like kindness and generosity towards everyone, like the Late Ratan Tata exhibited, are only a few human values that we must all have.

These values are taught to a person. Nelson Mandela once said: No one is born hating another person… Hence, human values are taught to a person. 

One aspect of Dr Stya Paul that inspires you.

His determination! How he did it all by himself while managing his siblings is commendable. 

An act of kindness, you would suggest. 

People could donate to NGOs. If they’re unable to go to NGOs, they can just donate to the poor people around them. Even taking care of your children nicely and teaching them human values is an act of kindness.

Values that you have learnt from your parents.

My parents have taught me to be trustworthy, always speak the truth, and be confident. And while it is tough to speak the truth since people don’t believe you, I am steadfast in what I have been taught. I tell my mother everything that has happened from the time I am away from home.

What are some of the values that the school has taught you? 

I have been at the school since nursery. The school has taught me a lot, whether it be sharing, caring, kindness, or helping others. The school has taught me to respect everyone, as it differentiates me from cultured and uncultured people. The teachers have taught me how to be curious and ask questions.