‘The school provided a solid foundation in academics and moral education’

Pravneet Kaur, an alumna of Apeejay School, Saket (batch 2017), is at present, pursuing her PhD at Jamia Hamdard. From excelling in academics to exploring her passion for chess and Biology, her journey has been marked by perseverance and growth. In this conversation, she reflects on her time at Apeejay School and how it shaped her personally and academically, guiding her toward a career in sustainable agriculture. 

How would you describe your time at Apeejay School, Saket?

My time at the school is filled with happy memories. I joined in nursery and studied there until class XII, passing out in 2017. I made great friends and admired my teachers immensely. I was always more inclined towards academics, but Apeejay School also encouraged me to explore extracurricular activities like art, calligraphy, and chess, which helped build my confidence. I was the only girl in the chess club in class IV, but eventually, more girls joined, and I even represented the school in Inter-school competitions.

What role did Apeejay School play in shaping your career in biology and sustainable agriculture?

Apeejay School provided me with a solid foundation not only in academics but also in moral education. We had dedicated lessons that instilled important values, which gave me the courage to pursue my dreams, even when the journey felt daunting. I was always passionate about Biology, and my teachers supported me through challenges, including a health condition during classes XI and XII. Despite everything, their encouragement helped me excel in biology, eventually leading me to pursue a PhD.

Can you share some experiences where your teachers made a significant impact on you?

Oh, definitely! I had no tuition, so I self-studied. Teachers gave me extra books from their personal libraries, which helped me improve in subjects I struggled with, like Math. Their belief in me was incredibly motivating. Their words about resilience still inspire me today. Every Teacher’s Day, I make it a point to reach out and thank them.

What advice would you give to the present Apeejayites?

Don’t give up on your dreams, no matter how difficult the journey seems. Endure through the tough times, lean on your teachers and friends for support, and always be grateful for the opportunities you have. Resilience is key, and it will shape you both as a professional and as a person.