This memoir celebrates the pivotal moments, inspiring mentors, and lifelong friendships that shaped my educational journey. Those years, etched in my memory, are like a patchwork of experiences—each moment contributing to the person I am today.
My adventure began in pre-primary section in the South Extension-1 building when Mrs. Khosla was looking after the admin role. Though my memories are clouded about specifics, but names of Mrs. Bindra and Mrs. Gill do flashback in my memory as my kindergarten teachers who shaped and nurtured my spirit of curiosity and exploration and fondly took me under their wings to give me free flight. Little did I know that these foundational years would lay the groundwork for a lifetime of learning and growth.
A turning point in my schooling years was when I discovered my love for the game of basketball and joined the school’s basketball team in 1995(Class X), following the footsteps of a few dear seniors whom I used to watch in awe from the school corridors during games period. Sports at school for me was such a character builder and taught me essential life lessons of camaraderie, being humble in victory and graceful in defeat. Competing in school sport events like athletics, basketball & football made me build some lifelong association and friendships. My PTIs at the time were Rajni maam, Shukla Sir, Tarun Sir and Shakti Sir with whom I have shared a lot of fun moments both on and off the field.
The next defining moment for me was when I was nominated to be the Head Boy of the school in 1996(Class XI), and it gave me an opportunity to interact with the legendary Fr Carvalho as the Principal, teachers and other staff of the school. And till date my batchmates from school remember me more as a head boy than anything else.
Teachers played a pivotal role too. Mrs. Mishra, Mrs. Krishnani, Mrs. Aruna, Mrs. Mathur, Mrs. George, Mrs. Vibha, Mr. Ravinder are some of the names of teachers who are still etched in my memory who wished me well both as a student and sportsperson and were always supportive. Their dedication and passion left an indelible mark on me. Some were strict, pushing me to reach my potential, while others were nurturing, guiding me with kindness. I remember the way they believed in me even when I doubted myself. They imparted not only knowledge but life lessons—shaping my mind and character.
Winning a race, giving a speech at the school assembly, or receiving good marks on a test felt like small victories that shaped my confidence. The school has given me such a solid foundation in ethics and social morals which have held me in good stead in life even after school, in my years of studying to be a dentist and later in the Armed Forces and in providing compassionate dental care to all my patient clientele in the Army.
As a young adult, school helped me discover my strengths early on, broadened my horizons and helped me develop a confident demeanor and an inquisitive mind which has later helped to develop the mental fortitude and resilience to survive in the world outside. Looking back, I realize that my school years were not just about lessons in textbooks, but about learning how to navigate life. The friendships I made, the values I learned, and the memories I cherish have all been woven into the fabric of who I am.
Through the Alumni Association, I aspire to build enduring bonds with my batchmates, seniors, and juniors, all of whom have shared the common foundation of Father Agnel School with me. The friendships that I forged at school continue to be the most valuable treasure for me till date. I am a proud alumnus of FAS and committed to making a positive impact in my community and beyond.
Fr Agnel School will forever hold a special place in my heart. This memoir honors the transformative power of education, and the enduring connections forged within those hallowed halls. School may have ended, but the experiences and lessons continue to guide me every day. In many ways, those years were the foundation upon which the rest of my life is built. Thank you, FAS.