‘This school gave me lasting bonds’

She passed out in 2009 from Apeejay School, Noida, and was fortunate to get into Kasturba Medical College (KMC) where she completed her MBBS. After that, she pursued her (Diplomate of National Board in Internal Medicine at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Vaishali in Ghaziabad. This brought her back home, and since then she has been based in Delhi, building her practice. Meet Dr Purneetha Singh. In a candid interview, she talks about the school’s contribution in her life, among other things.

Did you start your own practice immediately?

I worked at Max Vaishali for some time. I am a second generation doctor, and my father already had an established practice in East Delhi, so I had a platform to build on. Around the COVID period, I started my venture. I now run a polyclinic in East Delhi called Gulmohar Healthcare; I am also a visiting consultant at Pushpanjali Medical Centre in Anand Vihar. At my practice, I am trying to build a space that brings together medicine and allied specialties in a more integrated way.

Was there something else that inspired you to pursue medicine during school?

At one point, I wanted to do anything but become a doctor. But the strong foundation in science that I received in school gradually shaped my interest. I found myself drawn to biology. I have always been curious. Biology and diseases gave me that space to ask why things happen and to dig deeper. My teachers played a huge role; they left a lasting impact. My Biology teacher’s encouragement stayed with me, and even during my lowest phases, I found strength in her words.

Internal medicine is considered very demanding. How do you keep up?

It is a demanding field, and you can only sustain in it if you are genuinely passionate. That said, today every field is evolving rapidly, so constant learning is not unique to medicine anymore. Everyone has to keep up through refresher courses and further specialisation. Medicine involves long hours and can sometimes feel like a thankless job. So I would say only those who are truly determined should pursue it. There are no shortcuts.

What are the challenges that come with it??

I dropped twice before reaching where I am today. So I strongly believe that taking a break should not be seen as a stigma. You should not feel disheartened. If you truly want something, you have to stay committed to it. Also, this field should never be chosen under peer or parental pressure. The motivation has to come from within.

What values from school still stay with you today?

Discipline, punctuality, and the habit of showing up every day. I had a spotless attendance record for a long time. Even on days when you do not feel like it, just showing up makes a difference. And of course, the strong foundation built by good teachers stays with you for life.

Any fond memories from your school days that still feel vivid?

I studied at the school from nursery to Class XII. That continuity gave me deep friendships and lasting bonds with teachers. I am still in touch with several teachers, some of whom have even retired now. Those years shaped a lot of who I am today. And on a personal note, I am married to my school boyfriend, which makes those memories even more special.