‘The school’s motto – Soaring High is My Nature – has stayed with me’

School memories often nestle deep in our hearts. We treasure these days because they’re filled with so many firsts — our first real friends, triumphs, and even setbacks. It’s during this time that our personalities begin to take shape, guiding us on the paths we eventually follow. The friendships forged between the bells of class can last a lifetime, woven together with shared adventures and discoveries. School days also offer a precious breather from the complexities that come later in life, a simpler time that brings joy just to think about. Every time we stroll down memory lane, those school day memories reconnect us with our past, echoing the valuable lessons we carry forward.

The same holds for this alumna of Apeejay School, Faridabad in Sector 15. Meet Dr Natasha Mittal who is a Medical Director, ACE Hospital and a senior consultant pathologist, running a 50-bed nursing home in Faridabad. She also works with Park Hospital.

In a candid conversation, Dr Mittal talked about how the school changed her from a shy to a confident person of today.

Describe what a typical day is like at your hospital.

A typical day at my clinic is very busy. I examine patients at my hospital, sign out the reports, and then I go to work at Park Hospital. There, I also have patients waiting and I sign out the reports. My day starts early at 5 am to get the kids ready and manage chores at home. I arrive at the clinic by 9 am.

Why did you choose pathology as your area of specialisation?

Based on my rank, I was offered a diploma in radiology among a few others. I opted for an MD in pathology at that time. I did my MBBS from Rohtak Medical College. The most interesting thing is that a patient’s diagnosis relies heavily on the pathologist. If I give a good diagnosis, the clinician can treat the patient effectively. If the diagnosis is incorrect, treatment becomes difficult.

What innovations in technology have impacted pathology over the years?

Over the last 20 years, there have been significant advancements in pathology, including the introduction of automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Machines and AI now perform tasks that we used to do manually with a microscope. At present, we are not using AI but it is the future of pathology in an appropriate setting and environment.

Share some memories from your school days.

I joined Apeejay School in mid-session in class X. I was a very shy and studious student, having moved from Panipat to a new, larger city like Faridabad. What I found here was how supportive the teachers were, especially our Biology and English teachers. Recently, when the school organised an alumni meet, we met some of our old teachers. It was fantastic to meet them as it brought back so many memories.

What are some important lessons you learnt at Apeejay?

 One thing that has stayed with me is the school’s motto: Soaring High is My Nature. I didn’t participate much in co-curricular activities, but the school helped me build some confidence over the three years I was there.

Advise for students who want to take up pathology as a specialisation.

Pathology is a branch where you are not directly dealing with patients but making diagnoses behind the scenes. It suits those who prefer a less patient-interactive role, akin to an office job, especially for females managing both career and home.

For Admissions Call Helpline Number: 8826074074

Write To Us At (Email): [email protected]