Meet the all-rounder who made the mark

Read how one student’s journey at Apeejay School, Noida, embodies holistic growth

By Shalini Saksena: In today’s dynamic environment, success requires more than just academic excellence.

The Principal’s Award celebrates students who demonstrate all-round development, excelling in academics while actively engaging in co-curricular activities. This recognition encourages holistic growth by acknowledging talents across multiple domains.

Nominated by class teachers, recipients are those who consistently perform well and embody the values of balanced achievement.

The award honours their dedication and inspires peers to strive for excellence in every aspect of school life, fostering a culture of versatility, leadership, and continuous self-improvement.

Meet one such student from the senior wing — Ishita Aadya, a student of Class XI at Apeejay School, Noida, who received this award for the academic year 2024-25. In a candid interview, she shares her journey.

Tell us about your academic excellence over the years.

It would be difficult to remember my percentage, but I do know that I used to score 95% and above throughout my schooling to date.

What about sports or extracurricular activities?

Before Class X, we had different activity sections. I participated in vocal singing and was also part of a club and the group discussion committee.

In sports, since we have a huge campus with ample opportunities, I played a lot of basketball, though not at the Inter-school level. I played more for enjoyment.

When your name came up, were you aware that it was for the Principal’s Award?

No, I wasn’t. I wasn’t feeling well, so I wasn’t present in school. I got a call from my class teacher telling me I had won the Principal’s Award and had to come the next day.

It was a total surprise. My class teacher told me that only one student is selected from the whole senior block. I was like, “Why me? What did I do?” But later, it felt great.

Was there a process involved?

Not for this particular award. I remember last year I appeared for an interview with the Principal for the Dr Stya Paul Award for Human Values. There were four or five other students present at the interview, but I didn’t win the Dr Stya Paul Award. But I did end up with the Principal’s Award.

Do you think receiving this award puts extra responsibility on you?

Yes, I would say so. But I wouldn’t call it pressure. I enjoy that responsibility. It feels good to be selected for something so significant.

What does this award mean to you, personally?

I joined the school during COVID-19, so everything was new and different. But over time, I adapted and adjusted. It feels amazing that the school saw my potential and appreciated it. To me, this award signifies my entire journey here.

Going forward, how do you plan to uphold what this award stands for?

I believe no one can be perfect, but I just have to try my hardest. I need to recognise where I’m lacking and focus on improving. That itself ensures that I’ll be the best version of myself.

Source: www.apeejay.news

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