Words from A Sulonian's Heart

I graduated from Smt. Sulochanadevi Singhania School in 2014, but the memories I made there are fresh as a daisy! The teachers were always supportive of my ideas, and there was always a galaxy of opportunities for us to choose from, according to our talent and interests. From the comprehensive English syllabus to the Topographical maps in Geography, from waiting impatiently for the P.E. Periodically performing melodious songs, dances and dramas for our loved ones during Parents Day in the beloved Gopalvan, Singhania School has had a massive impact in shaping me into the adult that I am today. It makes me glad to hear about the colossal advancements in infrastructure and facilities which have taken place in the last few years, and the accolades received by the school give me bragging rights when I tell my peers about my days at Singhania. As I entered college(and hence, the professional world), I realised that being a Sulonian is not only a pedestal of pride to stand on, but also, it is a great responsibility. I feel proud to have been a part of this premier institution which continues to nurture me even today, and I always strive to make my beloved school and my teachers proud of me through my deeds and achievements. Once a Sulonian, always a Sulonian!

Amit Chitanvis

2014 Batch

The least I could possibly say about Singhania is that it gave me the best two years of my academic life. It is an institution of opportunities galore and a pathway leading to umpteen experiences."Good teachers know how to bring the best out of the students"- this quote is a true reflection of all my teachers and their teachings have guided me at several crucial junctures. When I reflect on how well I have been able to progress with my professional development, I certainly value the unmatched insights I gained from my experience at Singhania. To have been selected for a student exchange program to Denmark, to have discovered the passion for singing, and innumerable other experiences, Singhania has been the reason. It's a proud feeling to have been associated with the school and even today, whenever I drive past my Alma mater, an internal rush of emotion fills my heart with a desire to come back!

Sanjeev S Nair

ISC - Batch of 2014-15

"Excellence is not a goal, it's a way of life." - These words of Dr. Vijaypat Singhania have always been in my mind, every time I set a goal for myself. Every time I think of school, it instils in me a feeling of coming home. The innumerable memories of the Sports Day, the inter-house competitions, the march past and the mass drills. The uncountable performances during the Parents Day, Annual Day, Youth Fest and numerous other competitions made me develop as a dancer, a performer. The management of the various programmes taught me to keep calm. To think about all of this along with the school trips, the exchange programme and The Sulonia Films Division hits me with nostalgia.Though I felt sentimental I never cried when I left the school because I know that a part of me will always stay in school and I will always look back at this school as my home, just like all the Sulonians do, since we always believed: "Once A Sulonian, Always a Sulonian!"

Heramb Gupta

"As I look back at my school days, I feel grateful for being a part of this esteemed institution. It taught me everything right from reading and writing to handling immense pressure and getting ready for college. The teachers taught us how to learn, pursue our passion and excel in every field. It felt almost unreal to have study abroad opportunities available to us in the school, start a film club and receive full support for it, provide music for an event as big as the sports day and gain raw, self-learnt experience that no form of coaching could have given me.
The change wasn't easy. I entered with tears of fright but left with tears of pride. I will, forever, cherish those fourteen years in my second home where I grew up to be an adult.
Once a Sulonian, always a Sulonian!

Savya Agarwal

When I was first asked to pen down my thoughts about being a Sulonian, what struck me the most was that despite my short two year period in this institute, my teachers still remember me and consider me worthy enough to speak so….. Singhania as I would like to call it, was the first institute that made me realize that school indeed could be your second home. I had entered the premises of this college as a mere above-average student who could only boast about her grades but nothing about her confidence. As a coy, silent girl like I had always been, I had never expected anyone to recognize my inner strengths and weaknesses. I was just harbouring the same old fear of getting lost in the crowd. But to my sheer surprise, I was proven wrong. It all started with my selection in the Student Exchange Program. As a part of its screening process, I had to give an interview with the Principal Mrs Revathi Sreenivasan ma'am. There I was again standing as terrified as a bird waiting to be called in. But the welcome I received from her was far from what I had intended it to be… Since then began my journey of sincerely loving my college and considering myself a proud Sulonian. And there has been no looking back since then…. Even now after three years of having passed out I still find myself running through the pages of the calendar reciting the verses of the Shanti Paath and reliving those wonderful years all over again. The hectic schedule that MBBS puts me through has taught me to value and treasure every single passing moment. But what I value the most is my past all beautifully woven together by the fond memories of Singhania. Yes, I was and will always be a true Sulonian…

Nandini Nair

Batch 2012-14

WE, THE SULONIANS...
Those tiny steps, taking a big leap and entering the prestigious school is a dream come true. The teachers have groomed our children and taken care to make them into better human beings with a focus on studies and extracurricular activities.
We have seen our child's transformation from one, holding our fingers and walking, to becoming an independent, confident child with that special spark in their eyes.
The school song itself talks of the child becoming a good human being which is the need of the hour in a civilised society. We are proud to be members of the prestigious "SULONIAN" Family.

Vibha Mundra

School conducts many cultural competitions like clay, drawing, fancy dress, singing & origami, and encourage students to take part in it. This adds to the overall development of kids. They learn many life skills at such an early age, healthy competition, team spirit, sportsmanship and being healing and supportive to their classmates.
The school appreciates the students by giving certificates.

Kashmira

For me, as a mother of twins, the initial days of school were full of anxiety. Both my daughters being in different divisions, used to cry a lot as a result of separation anxiety. Today, after two beautiful fun-filled years, with the motherly love of their kindergarten teachers, they have come up so well. They have their own set of friends and look forward to going to school each morning. The methodology used for teaching is so apt that nothing seems a 'task'. Things just flow so easily, that they have now started writing well and converse fluently in English. The fancy dress theme - countries of the world, gave them exposure to names and uniqueness of different countries at such a young age. The Clay modelling and Origami cultural activities, made them develop a liking to craft. KG day taught them songs of different languages. They picked it up so well that I was amazed. The picnic taught them to take care of themselves independently while enjoying it too. As a parent performing on different occasions, in-school programs have helped me bond with the school.
The journey was a memorable one.

Manisha Thorat

Vishnu's journey through Kindergarten has been fairly remarkable. He has transformed, from being a shy boy to a more confident and independent one. It has made him creative, not only being able to write on his own but being able to express his thoughts through sketches. He has made friends and learnt to share and care. He has enjoyed and has vivid memories of the school picnic.
He has a special bond with his teachers and is also thankful to the maushis, who have helped him in this journey.

Rajini Rahul

My son Aarav Pandit 1J has been in your esteemed school from Sr Kg. Being a parent's annual day is always exciting for the parents. As we descended towards Gopalvan in the evening that day we could hear the birds chirping little did we know that we were in for a musical extravaganza!
Have you seen any Annual day without a CD player or a Cassette or any digital backdrop!
Beat 1 the children enter!
Beat 2 they bow!
Beat 3 and performance starts!
There is dance and no CD playing ...children singing live..from folk music to songs in one of the multiple languages across the country! Amazing no teacher near the stage, no prompting, no stopping! Starting to end, the children did everything on their own! And music by their very own teachers! Amazing performance! Amazing show! All in-house including Costumes, Lights, Stage, Singing and Music!
Truly a fascinating Parents day!
Blessed to be a proud parent of a Sulonian!

Kajal Pandit

My daughter Suruchi enjoys singing and dancing and loves to go to school. Though it would be early morning, she would struggle to get up and go to school. Suruchi loved her teachers as they would love her in different ways. The teachers not only taught but also loved and pampered our kids. I as a parent was always happy to see my kid with a rising graph in learning. On the first day of Junior KG, my kid was like a small fish in the big ocean, but at the end of Senior KG, she was like the dolphin fish, jumping and dancing, happy in the huge ocean! School has given us parents, very beautiful days, to hear our kids narrating lovely, lively, day to day experiences from school activities.
'School is fun' is so true

Rupali Deshmukh

What being a Sulonian means to me....
When you study at such a legendary institution for fourteen years, it becomes a mammoth task, describing what it feels like being a part of it. When I tell my friends in college that my alma mater is Smt. Sulochanadevi Singhania School, their look of awe (especially my friends from Mumbai), fills me with pride. Being a Sulonian means a myriad of memories and all that they have taught me. From performing for our parents and teachers to composing our own farewell song for the last parents’ day, from shrieking and cheering for our house during inter-house competitions, sports days to do the same for something as unimportant as a girls versus boys game during the PE classes, from being reprimanded by the teachers for not handing in our homework on time to seeing their faces light up with immense joy when we are felicitated after our board exam results, being a Sulonian isn’t just having studied at that institution. It is an emotion of such enormity, that hardly anyone who’s not experienced it, can understand.

Avani Ranade

WE, THE SULONIANS... Those tiny steps, taking a big leap and entering the prestigious school is a dream come true. The teachers have groomed our children and taken care to make them into better human beings with a focus on studies and extracurricular activities. We have seen our child's transformation from one, holding our fingers and walking, to becoming an independent, confident child with that special spark in their eyes. The school song itself talks of the child becoming a good human being which is the need of the hour in a civilised society. We are proud to be members of the prestigious "SULONIAN" Family.

Vibha Mundra

School conducts many cultural competitions like clay, drawing, fancy dress, singing & origami, and encourage students to take part in it. This adds to the overall development of kids. They learn many life skills at such an early age, healthy competition, team spirit, sportsmanship and being healing and supportive to their classmates. The school appreciates the students by giving certificates.

Kashmira

School conducts many cultural competitions like clay, drawing, fancy dress, singing & origami, and encourage students to take part in it. This adds to the overall development of kids. They learn many life skills at such an early age, healthy competition, team spirit, sportsmanship and being healing and supportive to their classmates. The school appreciates the students by giving certificates.

Kashmira

A Unique Experience

The excitement started almost 2 months back when I was selected to accompany the ISC students on an Exchange programme to Campus BornHolm, Denmark.

Right from the word go it was a learning experience for me. Having never taught or interacted with this age group, I was surprised by their talent, enthusiasm and the ability to take decisions. The prep-sessions helped me to bond with the students and my colleague and accompanying teacher.

On arrival at BornHolm it was wonderful to see the Danish students and the Sulonians greet each other with enthusiasm. The hosting teachers ensured that our stay in BornHolm was an amazing and enriching experience.

The trip around BornHolm with its castle ruins and round churches was an excellent lessonin the history of the medieval times and Nordic history. The presentations made by the Danish students added to my new learning. Watching the interaction between the student and the teacher, I was struck by the friendliness, patience and the teacher’s respect for the opinion of the student. I would definitely like to imbibe these qualities.

The Maths lesson was not just about math but also history and architecture. It was an excellent example of integrated teaching and learning with the use of ICT, Chalk and Board and Outdoor activity, where the students had to reconstruct an architectural design using only a piece of string and chalk. It also reinforced the importance of planning the lessons well which appeared to match so well with our school's teaching learning practises.
The Cultural performance on the India Day Celebrations received a standing ovation and was the highlight of the trip. It was an absolute honour and privilege for me to announce about our school’s No.1 ranking in the country for International Exchange Programme on behalf of Principal Madam to a loud thunderous applause and heartfelt praises from the Principal Mr.Klaus Christiansen for the efforts the school puts into achieving these credentials. Indeed, an extremely proud moment for all the Sulonians!!!

The Counselling Sessions truly helped the students conduct themselves with grace , dignity and poise throughout the trip which was appreciated by the teachers and the host parents.A heartfelt thank you to Principal Madam for giving me this wonderful and unique opportunity. It was a myriad experience which has added to my growth as a teacher and as an individual.

Suman

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

Actually, it was a great learning experience by being a part of this wonderful exchange programme. We all attended the classes in St. Joseph’s Convent School, North Point. Through attending it, I learnt to be more disciplined in life. It is not a great work to be disciplined when the teachers are present in the class; but the North Pointers were even disciplined when there wasno one there to scold them. Another thing we learnt from them was being hospitable to their guests (we Sulonians). Each boy in their school (any standard) treated all of us very well and refered to us as their ‘brothers’. I will never forget these important values which will help me being more civilized in future.

How will your learning help you in future?

As I mentioned earlier, discipline is an important value learnt by me which will help me develop in future. But discipline alone won’t help us. What we need is ‘self discipline’. We Mumbaikars do not behave well unless we are supervised by someone. It’s all our attitude and that is what we need to change in our lives which I have learnt from Darjeeling. Even a local coolie there who works hard to meet his ends will never steal anything even if he has a good opportunity. This is the required attitude.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

By being a part of their programme, I have already learnt so many values. These values will surely help me in improving my personality in future. As I aspire to become an automobile engineer in future, I wish to learn more to conquer my dream. But the most important thing; to become a good human in future. That’s what our school song reads. I will never let it down.

How have you evolved as a student/teacher by participating in this programme?

Truly speaking, all of us have an all-round development. We have gained various values and now we know our responsibilities even better. But the best part of it is implementation. Learning is good but until we implement it we have gained nothing out of it. The values learnt in North Point will help us evolve as a human free of vices filled with values.

Aaditya Shrivastav

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

The student exchange programme to St. Joseph's ,North Point had a lot to learn and learning it was enjoyable. I learnt a bit of Nepali language, writing names by wool, to make chilada [a typical Nepali dish] to make healthy green tea and the aromatic Darjeeling black tea. I also learnt how the tea is made in the factories.

How will your learning help you in future?

Before this student exchange programme my behaviour was a bit childish. But now my behaviour has changed a lot. My leadership quality has increased. I learned how to co-operate and be with a team that was so awesome.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

As I first said, my leadership qualities has been evolved and I learnt to corporate and not to be "me the first" the main quality bad ... restlessness went and I became more calm.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student I learnt went close to the teacher n came to know how teachers are and how they look after students. I am sensitised towards behaving with others.

Atharva Vaidya

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

My communication skills as well as my intellect have developed. I have gained knowledge of a very diverse culture. I feel pride in having been chosen to represent my school which has made the love for my school increase ten fold. I have gained abundant knowledge that simply cannot be expressed.

How will your learning help you in future?

Learning will help me shape my future and help me create my own destiny. It will propel me in the right direction. Learning is not only exclusive to studies but to various other sects. This programme has educated me in various sects including education.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

I have developed a sense of responsibility and leadership. This programme has physically as well as mentally prepared me for living alone and managing my own things. It has helped me develop my senses and skills.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student I feel pride in representing my school. I feel that I am truly a part of the school’s history and will go down in the books as a student participating in the first national school exchange programme.

Ishaan Binod

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

By participating in this programme I learnt to how to be independent, more matured specific in my each and every task, to be friendly with everyone especially my host brothers and even learnt that each and every person should be respected. I also learnt about the school’s philosophy and motto that is Sursum Corda meaning in Latin lift up your heart. I also learnt how to be content in our living.

How will your learning help you in future?

This learning can help me in my future as it has taught me many values like being independent, matured, disciplined, self discipline, co-operation, content living etc which would help me to teach my next generation.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme
Patience, Motivation, Self discipline, Discipline, Content living, Co-operation

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

From this programme I have met various persons who have different types of personalities which has evolved me into a independent person, kind of a homesick person, motivated etc.

Kunal Chandnani

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I have gained a lot of information that I wasn’t aware of before like : how Darjeeling tea is processed and made before reaching shops. Also how to take in everything the hosts give us without making a fuss even if it doesn’t suit me. Also that not every person in this world is so privileged to be a part of the student exchange programme.

How will your learning help you in future?

If there is any instance in which something isn’t according to my wishes the second learning will help me remember to adapt. Also in times of crisis not everyone is as privileged in this world to have all that they need.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Seeing and observing students and teachers I have learnt how to be hard working , have better discipline, self-reliance, about different culture language of Darjeeling and how to live in harmony and appreciate another culture. This learning will always be embedded in my persona for life.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

I have evolved by developing self-discpline and learnt to have better etiquette; I can now adapt to different circumstances, people n places.

Mark Sharma

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I learnt about various cultures, languages, their philosophy and motto. I even learnt about their learning process, the way of discipline in their school. I got to learn a lot about their language and even about their temples.

How will your learning help you in future?

After this programme I am sure that I will be more disciplined. Due to different climates my body will be adapted to this temperature and help me become a survivor.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

To be more disciplined in public areas, to be helpful to others during their crisis, to arrange and be clean at all points of time.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

During this programme I have been able to be disciplined which is the main factor of a student. To be more arranged and clean at all points of time.

Rohan Iyer

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

After looking at the Kanchanjunga so high covered with snow I have learnt to set my goals high. I have also learnt to work hard achieve those goals n also understood and experienced the rich and vibrant culture of Darjeeling.

How will your learning help you in future?

This visit has made me more interested in the state of West Bengal. This will help me to know and understand more about this state. This learning will help me be independent and bold in future.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Being independent, bold, self-disciplined, responsible.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student I have been more particular about my studies n HW. The students of SJC were very hard-working which has inspired me to do hard work and study regularly for exams. I would also like to take part in another student exchange programme.

Saurin Savla

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I have gained an understanding and recognition of what I am inside through the cultural programme and ppts done by me. Also i have learnt what I can do and cannot do and what I am good at and what I can do in future. This was a life-changing experience for me. I hope to keep it in my heart forever.

How will your learning help you in future?

I’ve learnt to be patient n co-operative too – this will help me later. Not to be selfish but be a part of the group. I hope this will help me as a future businessman.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Patience, confidence, self-evaluation, co-operation.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

In these 10 days I met people of different attitudes and personalities. I began changing not from day 1 of the programme but from the day I was selected for this programme. I realised it’s time to be disciplined. I evolved and grew ready for hard-ships. I got over my stage-fear and gained confidence to do this all over again.

Shantanu Kolte

Std. 8 - 2016-17

St. Joseph’s College – North Point Darjeeling

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I have experiences of a vibrant culture. Also I developed a relationship with people of an unknown family. I’ve enhanced my ability to be friendly, calm n co-operative with others and to be kind to everyone.

How will your learning help you in future?

It has made me a better person from the past and made me friendly with other people. The good etiquittes in me will definitely be useful to me in future. The best thing that’s evolved in me is patience. Unlike in a fast metro like Mumbai everything in Darjeeling happened very slowly. The extra time taken in things to happen has developed my waiting capacity n patience which I think surely will help me take good decisions in future.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Patience, self-dependence, adaptability, co-operation

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

I’ve become more calm and patient.

Tanmay Jain

Std. 8 - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

The programme inculcated in us, adaptability and responsibility. It was the first time I ever cooked in the kitchen which indeed was a different learning experience. We found friends from a different country, who, are now, a major part of our life. Also, staying in a completely unknown family’s house was once in a lifetime opportunity which made me a different and a better person.

How will your learning help you in future?

As i said earlier, it made me responsible and taught me to adjust when you are with other people, it will definitely help me in future when i go abroad for higher studies or for any other reason. It developed self confidence in us, which indeed is going to be helpful for performing different tasks in future. Also during the preparations we learned planning, coordination and team work which will help us even in the future.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

This programme made me self sufficient. Being the youngest person in the family, I was used to being spoon-fed; but now I have learned to manage and do things on my own. It also developed a sense of punctuality in us. I was able to overcome the fear of public speaking through this programme.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

Being a student, all of us performed our best we could. As I said earlIer, it taught us the importance of time which will be useful even in the future. I have learned to concentrate on the given task and do the best I can to fulfil it. Hence this programme has made me a responsible person in each and every aspect.

Hemali Gandhi

Std. 12 G - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

Being nurtured by Parents, right from kindergarten to std 11, I learnt how to do things on my own, manage the schedule and adjust according to the present situations. I learnt cooking, which I honestly had never done before. Getting used to foreign food and weather, peacefully living with someone totally random were some of the many things that I learnt.

How will your learning help you in future?

The programme has helped me to discover my talents which I didn't know. It will definitely help when I go for higher studies abroad to a similar country not known to me. Getting used to their food and culture will definitely become easier.The cooking I mentioned will also assisst me in future.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

As I said,I discovered my inner talents and that was public speaking. My skills were certainly boosted when I talked and shared a laughter with some unknown people who nowhave become very close to me. I could also feel my confidence to speak in public increase. My attitude towards the weather and it's tolerance also developed.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

The programme made me a real 'individual' as in, I could very well manage things on my own. It has accentuated my confidence, made me self sufficient and a responsible person. My punctuality that is, not getting late to wake up or to reach a destined place has also increased. It has even made me more social and open to various thoughts.

Nihar Gupte

Std. 12 D - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

The experience gained by participating in the programme is as priceless as the Kohinoor diamond.The programme gave mean opportunity to test my skills and use them correctly. It taught me to work as a team where the weakness of one is cancelled by the strength of another making everything perfect. The knowledge gained about the Dutch culture is like a bag of treasure that filled my heart’s content.

How will your learning help you in future?

This would help me to work as a good team member for various projects related to my career to be doctor and also as a good doctor who could coordinate with hospital staff to deal with patients and their problems. The most importantly it has would help me being a better human.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Key areas developed in my personality through this programme are : 1. Time management 2. Team working skills 3. Sense of responsibility

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student I have become bit more responsible in the sense of my work. I have developed a new skill to communicate with people. I have learned to be more independent and self reliant. I have learned to deal with problems and not get depressed by it.

Parth Kadam

Std. 11 B - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I have gained a completely different perspective about travelling, conversing, and so many other activities that I thought I was sure of. I have gained so much experience regarding all these things. Things don’t always happen according to the plan, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy despite all of the mishaps. One has to adapt and go on taking along all the unexpected troubles. I gained these extremely valuable life lessons through this exchange.

How will your learning help you in future?

I can’t possibly imagine how this learning won’t help me in the future. In the future, situations rarely come off the way they are supposed to or the way we want them to. But, we can’t back off and run from it. We can’t cry and crib over it. We have to move on and find convenient solutions. We have to enjoy what’s happening instead of thinking about what could have happened. We have to be on our own and solve some issues ourselves instead of always depending on someone else.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Adaptability is one of the major areas that have been developed in my personality. In a completely different country, living in a completely strange house, eating completely different kind of food with strangers makes a person adaptable to whatever surroundings he/she receives. One has to learn to adapt to each and every possible situation as fast and as smoothly as possible. I also developed self-confidence through this programme. When one solves issues, however small they may be, on their own, without having to call parents, one becomes more self-dependent, and hence self-confidence bolsters. I have become more open-minded towards many aspects of day-to-day life.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

I have certainly evolved as a student. Cycling through the magnificent greenery of Holland, with the cold yet warm wind touching the face like a huge quilt, I learnt that the feeling I felt was true happiness. I learnt from this that there is a lot that lies in store for every one of us. One never stops being a student in life. I learnt that there is a lot more to learn.I learnt that I am not as knowledgeable and smart as I think I am and that I have to keep learning from life.

Juhi Jotwani

Std. 12 E - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I gained the experience of my life. I never thought that i will be able to live in a foreign country with a family that I just came to know about that too alone. I gained the love of the family, new friends and met amazing people.

How will your learning help you in future?

As I am planning to join the Indian Defence Forces, it taught me to eat different kind of food which i was not accustomed to and develop a new taste. I now know how to gain trust of the people and make new friends in a short span of time which is important to know in the future.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

My personality has become more humble as compared to what I was before. My sense of humour which was horrible has improved a bit (I think).

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

I have changed a lot. As a student I loved to see the Metameer School and know the different way in which the Dutch Students are taught. Though I thought the Indian way is better, I have learnt to adapt in different classroom situations. It was a beautiful walk down the memory lane.

Heramb Gupta

Std. 12 D - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

First of all this exchange program has given me perspective. Meeting people from a different part of the globe has taught me how to look at the world in a different way. This trip has created meaningful relationships and has made me a more well rounded human being. This trip also helped me gain a story that will forever be a shining gem in my history.

How will your learning help you in future?

This program has opened my eyes to more desires. The very fact that I got to meet different people and visit a different place has made me realise that this is what I really want to do. It has also helped me gain a lot of wisdom and experience and has taken me a step ahead in the road of life.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Meeting new people and staying with them for a week has made me more cooperative. It has also helped me reevaluate the way I approach some situations and made a big leap on my journey of growth. I have also been able to understand myself more and helped me be more of an experienced individual.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student I have become more experienced and I have made lots of stories to share as I grow. I have learnt so much more than a textbook could ever teach me. I have gained a global perspective and a strong independence that no other teaching method could impart. It has also taught me tolerance, self-sufficiency, and resourcefulness as well, three key skills that I can use for the rest of my life.

Sekhar Menon

Std. 12 - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

Firstly the most important thing i have gained from this program is a family which I can proudly say will forever be with me. Secondly I regained my confidence and definitely learned punctuality. Furthermore I have gained a whole new collection of memories which I will cherish for a lifetime, the memories which would come in my head but roll down my cheeks. And I truly had the most beautiful experience.

How will your learning help you in future?

There are a few basic things like punctuality, team work, unity and how to compromising in a team, which would take me a long time to learn if it hadn't been this exchange program. These things has enhanced my personality and made me a whole new person which would only help me achieve my dreams.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Being away in a totally different land and not under the guidance of your parents make you realise that not only what you speak but how your expressions and gestures also make a difference. These smalls parts in my personality were incomplete but now they are just the it should be.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

After learning the way of students and teachers in a completely different region it has increased my knowledge and made me realise many things and has helped me evolve as a student.

Saachi Sethi

Std. 12 - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

By participating in the programme,what I have gained is mainly the knowledge that no matter how different the cultural background is, students all around the world tend to be similar in many aspects, which is why eight days was all it took for us to get so attached to our Dutch friends. We also got to know a lot about how one should interact with people from a completely different country.

How will your learning help you in future?

The exchange programme in my opinion has sharpened our skill to interact with new people, while at the same time, has taught to stay together and work as one group, rather than working as various individuals. These qualities, despite of what profession one chooses, are sure to help in future as they are required everywhere.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

The one area that has been developed the most through this programme is adaptability. The country, the people, the climate and the food, all were things we were completely new to. Yet, none of us complained about it, and saw it as an opportunity to experience something different, and enjoyed every bit of it.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

The exchange programme has broadened my outlook of people around the world, and it made me realise that no matter how much one knows, there is always scope for more; that learning never stops, even if it is hundreds of miles away from your classroom. And this is sure to help me, as a student, in future.

Siddharth Sapre

Std. 12 - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

This programme was incidentally my first trip abroad, so it was really very special for me! By being a part of this programme, I've realised that people of our age, are so different yet similar at the same time. They are different as they belongto a different culture and their traditions are different, but at the same time they are similar to us as they are also students. So they also have to deal with submission dates and assignment completions! Apart from the cultural differences, another realisation was the global Refugee crisis. Seeing refugee camps first hand, I realised the true magnitude of the issue.

How will your learning help you in future?

This Exchange Programme really helped me learn about the cultural differences which exists. Being my first trip abroad, I obviously experienced a cultural shock due to some differences. I'm planning to go abroad after my 12th grade for further studies, so when I go for my studies, I wouldn't really experience a cultural shock.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

First of all, I've really learnt to be independent. Being halfway across the world without my parents has really taught me being independent. Secondly, I have learnt the importance of Time. Asmy hosts' parents followed a really tight schedule, it was very important for us to get up on time, get ready on time and then leave for our destination in time. I've also become more confident in speaking with people as we had to give a presentation and I had to tell my hosts and their parents several things about India.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

I must say that this exchange programme has really evolved some aspects of me. I've become more conscious with spending money because I was in a foreign land, with limited money so I really couldn't spend money wherever I wanted to. I had to make responsible decisions. This programme has also broken the image I had in mind about the western world. Before going for this programme, I thought that people led a very comfortable life, but being there really taught me that life isn't really easy there. As we live in India, most of us are used to getting our work done by someone else, but people there do everything on their own. I guess this quality of not being reliant on some one else to do your work is something we Indians should adopt from them.

Agam Chavan

Std. 12 D - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

This Student's exchange program was indeed an enriching experience. Many of us who were dependent on or friends and family can now live independently to quiet an extent. We have learnt to live together with all kinds of people, with love and respect. This program also help us learn a lot about the Dutch style of living which is quiet different from ours.

How will your learning help you in future?

Learning to live with different kinds of people belonging to different cultures will definitely help us in the long run, when we need to face difficultsituations and deal with various kinds of people. The lessons of punctuality are the ones we will never forget. Now we can try solving our own problems independently, without constant support.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

The key areas where I think I have developed as a person, the first being adaptability. Being a vegetarian it is slightly difficult to find vegetarian food in a European country, but whatever we had, we enjoyed it to its last bit. Second, I've learnt to deal with various situations and solve them on my own, without depending on my parents to solve them for me.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student, I have learnt to mix up with new people and make new friends. I have learnt to adapt to the climate and the culture of the place I'm staying in. I have definitely evolved a lot from how I was to how I am right now, crediting this change to an amazing exchange program, these are the lessons I will always cherish.

Ananya Gupta

Std. 12 C - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I feel very lucky to be a part of this exchange programme; an enriching experience, which only a few of us were lucky enough to get. This helped me evolve not only as a student but also as a human being. I learnt that there is a huge world outside and has a lot to offer. I have tried to absorb as much as I could. I realised the importance of self-discipline, taking up responsibility and also to be punctual. This programme made me realise that cultural and lingual barriers can be overcome. This was a great learning experience extended by myschool and I am really thankful to my respected Principal and the teachers for exposing me to such a stirring endeavour.

How will your learning help you in future?

In the years to come, I will have to interact with new people and the experiences of this programme will be my firm pillars in building a strong future for myself. I learnt to communicate with people having a different culture and language and to get along with them. I strongly feel that this academic and cultural exchange and the memories that I have gained from this programme will always be with me and will be my guide.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Many teenagers feel that living alone in a foreign country is a piece of cake but honestly it is not that easy. One has to be very alert n responsible at all times. I learnt to gel with people whom I had never met before. Staying alone in a different country has made me realise the value of time, importance of money and taking care of my belongings and respecting and valuing my own ideologies. I have realised it is very essential to get along with a new lifestyle and to openly accept what a country has to offer. I think this programme has led to an overall development which has made me a better person.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

I comprehended that extra - curricular activities have a lot of importance. The competitiveness in others is very high and I really need to work hard to face the world. This whole programme has changed my outlook towards my life and future.

Rucha Naik

Std. 12 B - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

The Students Exchange Programme has helped me learn the following:
1. The value and the experience of being an extrovert. There is a lot more that can be learned about life by communicating with people from different cultures, backgrounds and lifestyles.
2.Adaptability. This is one of the major traits that can be gained by staying at a foreign home in a foreign country.
3.The sense of incredulity about the enormousness of the planet we live on.
4.The knowledge of the dutch lifestyle.
5.The realization of the ephemerality and the transitory nature of life.


How will your learning help you in future?

This programme will undoubtedly help me in the future. Conviviality can be an asset to a person's growth as there is a lot more that can be learned about life by communicating with people from different cultures, backgrounds and lifestyles.Adaptability can also be a great tool to add to one's arsenal as this skill will be useful wherever one goes.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

This programme has developed the following:
1.The ability to be congenial and amicable.
2.The ability to acclimate to different cultures, food items and people.
3.The knowledge of the dutch lifestyle, culture and food.
4.The knowledge of the sheer magnitude of the vastness of our universe.


How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

This experience has reminded me thatthere is a lot more to be learnt about this universe than what schools can teach us. This fact is liberating as I realize that life is one giant lesson and we must be constantly learning to have a jubilant and a merry life.

Advait Varma

Std. 12 D - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

I have gained a lot of useful knowledge and skills by participating in this programme. I have become close friends with people whom I didn’t know exist in just a few days. I have learned about the culture of a country like the Netherlands which is so different from ours.

How will your learning help you in future?

I have learned skills like time management, adaptability, knowing how to compromise, discipline and punctuality. I believe that these skills are not only necessary for being successful inyour job, but are also very important for life. These will help me be successful in whatever I do in the future.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Through this programme I think I have become more flexible and open to various things. The students taught us how to be punctual and how to adapt to new environments that we are not used to. I have learned to compromise and be satisfied with whatever is provided to me.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student, I have learned how to plan my day efficiently to get the maximum amount of work done. This will be very useful for me while studying or completing assignments. I have learned how importantit is to always be on time and never too early or late.

Divyameenakshi Thiagarajan

Std. 11 A - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

This Student's exchange program was indeed an enriching experience. Many of us who were dependent on or friends and family can now live independently to quiet an extent. We have learnt to live together with all kinds of people, with love and respect. This program also help us learn a lot about the Dutch style of living which is quiet different from ours.

How will your learning help you in future?

Learning to live with different kinds of people belonging to different cultures will definitely help us in the long run, when we need to face difficultsituations and deal with various kinds of people. The lessons of punctuality are the ones we will never forget. Now we can try solving our own problems independently, without constant support.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

The key areas where I think I have developed as a person, the first being adaptability. Being a vegetarian it is slightly difficult to find vegetarian food in a European country, but whatever we had, we enjoyed it to its last bit. Second, I've learnt to deal with various situations and solve them on my own, without depending on my parents to solve them for me.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

As a student, I have learnt to mix up with new people and make new friends. I have learnt to adapt to the climate and the culture of the place I'm staying in. I have definitely evolved a lot from how I was to how I am right now, crediting this change to an amazing exchange program, these are the lessons I will always cherish.

Ananya Gupta

Std. 12 C - 2016-17

International Student Exchange Programme, Metameer

What have you gained by participating in the programme?

Through this programme I have gained the experience of living a dutch life and seeing the world through the eyes of the Dutch locals. I have gained the warmth, the love and the hospitality of these wonderful people. And above all, I have gained new friends and lots of knowledge about the Netherlands, its glorious history and all those small little fun-facts like – the alluvial plains in the Netherlands are built-up from sediment left by thousands of years of flooding by rivers and the seas though Netherlands was originally all flat and plain. Furthermore, I have gained a whole new collection of treasurable-memories that upon recalling curl my lips into this wide smile that travels up to my eyes.

How will your learning help you in future?

The value of time , unity in a team and how to compromise and adjust are few of those many life skills that I learnt through this programme. Embracing the differences that each mind potrayed by exploring different corners of the same polygon, and utilising these differences to bring out and create the best as a team whilst overcoming certain clash of opinions and views yet always standing up for each other is the most important skill that I learnt. The learning from this programme would definitely help me in my future team projects.

Key areas that have been developed in your personality through this programme

Being in a foreign land, away from under the shelter of your parents wings for once, made me realise that not only your attitude and behaviour mark an impression, but even how you carry yourself does. This realisation has helped me recognize the missing block in my personality building process. Not only this one, but I even took note of how small gestures can speak louder than words, make us more approachable and connect us even if we don’t speak the same language.

How have you evolved as a student by participating in this programme?

A student evolves every time he or she explores and gains more knowledge. A student evolves when he or she learns something new and novel. I evolved as a student when in the Rijksmuseum, I asked a lady who was very focused and critically appreciating each painting, how do you critically analyse a painting and all are the technical bits she was using to analyse the paintings. Moreover, as a student, I have improved upon my skills in the-art-of-conversation and have even horned my skills in forming –the-first-impression. I learnt to embrace and respect another culture. I furthermore learnt about the evolving architecture of the Dutch.

Purva Mhatre

Std. 12 G - 2016-17