The Art of Man-making: ‘When you achieve something, it’s your responsibility to live up to it’

Human values are no rocket science. Instead, they are the beliefs that help us decide what’s wrong and right. Such values are the building blocks of shaping our character of today to help us become the right leader for tomorrow. Meet Avika Bansal, a student of class XI studying at Apeejay School, Noida.

In a telephonic interview, she talks broadly about how human values are naturally instilled in a person which starts from the learning phase in our lives.

Excerpts from the interview

Tell us about yourself.

I’m a person who loves having fun. I enjoy editing videos and making animations. I even have a YouTube channel. I’m also actively involved in creating electronic projects using Microbit. I also spend 50 minutes daily, reading a new book.

Define the concept of human values.

These are the fundamental principles of behaviour and manners that individuals are typically taught during their upbringing. These values play a significant role in shaping one’s character and behaviour.

How did you react to receiving this award?

I felt extremely joyful. When I took the written interview, I was not sure that I would be able to get through. However, my parents were confident that I would achieve something significant. It was one of the happiest days I’ve experienced to date.

How do you intend to apply human values in real-life situations beyond the classroom?

There are always two sides to a coin. Either you can choose to treat people the way they treat you, or treat them the way you want them to treat you. To truly stand out, you should be kind without expecting anything in return. I want to keep being a good person. I’m a member of the Interact Club, and I aim to become its director in the coming year to deliver a bigger impact. Talking about my good deeds outside of school, when I visit my grandmother’s house, I see her teaching less fortunate kids for free, and I love helping them. It makes me feel happy and at peace with myself.

Do you think that award will influence your future endeavours?

This award has motivated me to strive for greater things in life. It has made me want to be a better version of myself and help others. When you achieve something, you feel a responsibility to live up to it. So, I’ve become more mindful and considerate of that.

Who is your role model and why?

My mother is my role model. She’s amazing at multi-tasking and works incredibly hard. Whenever I look at her, I think, ‘I want to be like her’. If I can even be 5% of what she is, I’d consider myself a good person.

Are there any aspects of Dr Stya Paul’s life that you would like to incorporate?

The most significant lesson I’ve taken from Dr Stya Paul is perseverance, and I want to embrace it as I move forward. His ability to keep moving forward, even in the face of hardships, is truly admirable. He never gave up on his goals and was always ready to help others without expecting anything in return.

On what basis one can get nominated for this award?

There is no hard and fast rule to get nominated. It is simply based on how you’ve behaved not only in school but also in your life outside of it. It considers your actions and attitudes throughout your years in school and the society outside. These values have been with me since I started learning at school. I believe in helping others; it is our duty. I think it’s the minimum we can do, and it shapes our true character.

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