Shaping My Journey: Lessons from Co-Curricular Activities

Co-curricular activities have always played a pivotal role in shaping my personality. It’s not just about learning leadership or acquiring new skills; it’s about the holistic development that these experiences provide. Over the years, I’ve engaged in numerous activities that have shaped me as a person, with each one contributing uniquely to my growth. The most important realization I’ve had through these experiences is that leadership is something that is cultivated every day, from school to college and beyond.

Ever since school, I have done activities that have developed various key qualities that shape my personality. From a team player in the football team to becoming the captain for 7 consecutive years, I have learned a lot. Team building, empathy, decision making and a lot more. Today when I look back at the activities I have done till date, I realise the value they have added in my life.

My journey continued in college,

Painting the wall during the very first semester of college, alongside my fellow classmates, was both a fun and insightful experience. What began as a simple initiative to take responsibility turned into a valuable lesson in action and accountability. Taking that first step, despite uncertainties, taught me how important it is to start acting and own the outcome—whatever it may be. To my surprise, the result was beautiful.

This idea of stepping up and embracing responsibility carried over into my role at the NSBT logo launch event. Speaking before an audience of dignitaries and parents challenged my comfort zone and sparked a new sense of confidence and stage presence that continues to shape how I communicate today.

In addition to public speaking, the budget session with my classmates taught me the value of team building and communication. I initiated conversations with new people, which improved my interpersonal skills. This experience showed me how encouraging teammates and leveraging everyone's unique skills leads to success.

Group discussions, presentations, and debates have helped me develop critical thinking, creativity, and effective communication skills. These experiences required thorough research, strategic thinking, and the ability to present unique perspectives to stand out. I also learned the importance of resolving conflicts constructively—by understanding diverse viewpoints and finding common ground. I've come to understand how essential these skills are—not just in academics, but in life. Only when you listen patiently and respond thoughtfully can real understanding and growth take place.

Running for General Secretary was one of my most rewarding challenges. While I didn’t win, the experience taught me invaluable lessons in community building, authentic leadership, and the power of positive influence. It reinforced that true growth comes not just from victory, but from the courage to take risks, inspire others, and stay resilient throughout the journey.

During the Japan Immersion Program, I gave my all and was shortlisted after the interview, but wasn’t selected, ending up as the first backup. It reminded me that life’s outcomes are not always in our control, but our response to them is what matters. True leadership lies in staying committed, learning from every experience, and continuing to move forward, win or lose. These moments shaped my ability to lead with strength, humility, and a never-give-up attitude.

Organising the freshers' party with my classmates was both enjoyable and insightful. It taught me key lessons in time management, teamwork, and hospitality. I learned the importance of adaptability and patience while working with diverse perspectives. Ultimately, the experience highlighted that successful collaboration stems from being open, respectful, and willing to learn from others.

Volunteering for the CMIA events taught me the importance of service orientation and the crucial role behind-the-scenes efforts play in the success of any event. It highlighted how essential it is to recognise and appreciate the contributions of everyone involved, as every effort, big or small, drives the overall success.

My three-month internship at Burlyfield was a rollercoaster ride of emotions, bonding, hard work, and valuable lessons. It was a new experience that taught me the importance of responsibility, professionalism, and discipline in shaping one's personality. I learned to seek help when needed and embraced every opportunity to contribute creatively to the organisation. The bonds I formed will forever be cherished, and the supportive environment made me realise how crucial it is to lift others and grow together.

Having my report on the CMIA CEO Conclave published in NSBT LOGIN was a true privilege. The event was incredibly inspiring, and thanks to the listening skills I’ve developed over time, I was able to absorb valuable insights from accomplished personalities. Sharing those learnings through LOGIN helped me strengthen my communication and writing skills, while also revealing a side of my personality I hadn’t explored before. It taught me the importance of self-awareness—not just in terms of big traits, but in the small qualities that collectively shape who we are.

The Viksit Bharat state-level speech competition was a powerful learning experience. Continuous practice taught me the value of pushing myself to improve and strive for excellence. It was also a space where I built meaningful connections and gained new perspectives. More importantly, it helped me understand the essence of visionary leadership—without a strong vision for societal impact, true leadership isn't possible. Taking the opportunity to share my thoughts on nation-building made me realise that contributing to the future of the country is one of the greatest responsibilities an individual can take on.

Lastly, the Social Immersion Program had a profound impact on me. It taught me the importance of kindness and empathy—qualities I believe every individual should possess. Engaging with people with disabilities and contributing to environmental causes helped me connect with my inner self. It offered a deeper understanding of life, showing me that there is so much more beyond the materialistic and fast-paced world we often chase. Most importantly, it made me realise how meaningful—and ironically, how difficult—it can be to truly live for others, putting their needs before your own with genuine care and intention.

Looking back on these experiences, I realise how much they have shaped my character and leadership journey. Each activity has contributed to my growth in ways that go beyond mere skills or accolades. Together, they’ve formed the foundation of my leadership philosophy: that leadership is not just about leading others but about growing, learning, and contributing to something greater than oneself.