By-Abhivyakti Saxena,Class-9,School-Carmel Convent School,Chandigarh: A former Carmelite who has recently secured the 10th rank in the Indian Administrative Service exam. On the event of CARMEL CONVENTS’ GOLDEN JUBILEE this IAS topper gets nostalgic about her school days: It is said “School is like a second home”. Till what extent do you agree with this statement?
Oh I definitely agree with this because I have got such fond memories in school that I’ll treasure them throughout lifetime. It was here that I lay the foundation for a secure future.
Any special memories you specifically associate with your school days?
Absolutely, our days were always very fun-filled in school. Despite being an all-girls school we always had this to our advantage as we were given the liberty to be ourselves at all times. I specially recall the students versus teachers cricket match organised in school and I was awarded the “Girl of the Match”. In Carmel the teachers also participate activities with the same spirit as that of the students.
Do you think that Carmel has changed over the past years?
Carmel has always been synonymous with academic excellence and over the past years it has gone beyond it. It has expanded itself both structurally as well as academically.
How much has Carmel contributed to your success in clearing the IAS exam?
Carmel provided me the perfect educational base which helped me go further. It was here that I struggled, learnt and understood myself. Carmel not only tightens your reins on academics but also plays a crucial role in developing your personality.
And what are the things that you feel will never change in Carmel?
The holy and the serene atmosphere created by the sisters shall always greet its visitors with open arms also the deep bond between the teachers and students will always exist. Love and warmth shall always remain the maiden names of Carmel.
Any message for Carmel on the occasion of its GOLDEN JUBILEE?
I am extremely proud to have been a part of this prestigious institution and wish that it may complete many more jubilees in the future. May this treasury of Moral Values always be there for generations.
Didi, we have proud of you.