News Pick
Why the Skills You Once Questioned (Like Stitching!) Turn Out Useful Later
From school activities to real-life moments, the lessons we once ignored often become surprisingly relevant
Every student has asked this at least once: “When will I ever use this in real life?”
It could be stitching in a home science class, a random co-curricular activity, or even something as simple as learning basic discipline. At the time, it feels unnecessary, almost like a distraction from “important” subjects. But fast forward a few years, and those very skills quietly start making sense.
Sometimes, the most unexpected lessons turn out to be the most practical ones.
The hidden value of “extra” school activities
Schools today offer a wide mix of activities beyond textbooks, sports, art, cooking, or even stitching. While students often prioritise academics, these sessions are designed to build life skills that don’t always show up on report cards.
They teach patience, independence, and problem-solving in ways a classroom lecture cannot. More importantly, they prepare students for real-life situations where adaptability matters more than theory.
When small skills show up in big ways
Gordon Anuj Miranda, an alumnus of Apeejay School, Kharghar (Batch of 2013), explains how one such skill stayed with him long after school.
“We had a CAPA period every morning before the first class. It included sports, cooking, karate, and even home science.”
At the time, not everything felt relevant. In fact, some of it seemed odd.
“My mom insisted I learn stitching, which I found odd back then but has proven handy now!”
It’s a simple example, but also a powerful reminder. Skills we once resisted often come back in unexpected ways, whether it’s fixing something on the go, managing daily tasks, or simply feeling more self-reliant.
Beyond marks: Learning that lasts
The real takeaway isn’t just about stitching or cooking. It’s about how schools quietly prepare students for life beyond exams.
These experiences build confidence, the kind that helps in both personal and professional spaces. They also teach students to value learning for its usefulness, not just for marks.
As Gordon reflects, “Spending 10 years at Apeejay taught me how to be a responsible individual and represent myself well in society.”
That sense of responsibility doesn’t come from textbooks alone. It grows through small, everyday learnings that often go unnoticed at the time.
Maybe it’s not useless after all
The next time a student wonders, “Why am I even learning this?”, it might be worth pausing for a moment.
Not every lesson reveals its purpose immediately. Some take years. Others show up quietly, when least expected.
And sometimes, it’s the skill you once questioned the most that ends up being the one you’re most grateful for.
