Dr Alok Srivastava: A Role Model Speaks

As an extension of the DNS ROLE MODEL List 2008, we asked the Role Models - 'How did De Nobili impact their life?' The fourth writeup in the series comes from Dr Alok Srivastava (ISC 1975).

I had the privilege of spending the last 4 years of my schooling (Classes VIII to XI, 1972 to 1975 before the change to the 10 + 2, ICSE / ISC system) at De Nobili in Digwadih.

Even though relatively short, in terms of time, they were among the most formative years of my life and hence had significant impact on me. The atmosphere at school inculcated two important characteristics - personal discipline and striving for excellence.

What created this atmosphere was, not just the excellent teachers we had, led by Father George Hess, but also the quality of students of the time, not least of them, my own classmates. There was of course a lot of fun also, sometime too much and led to our position outside Father Hess' office! They were important experiences, too. The camaraderie and the friendship were wonderful and endure even now. The important thing however was to do your best. Where you actually got after that was less critical. More often than not one finds in life that the fruits of your labour follow any way. We must remember though that the means that we use to get somewhere are as critical as the end itself. An early decision on your goals and remaining focused on it helps you reach where you want to be. Finally, as we chase our personal aspirations, we should not forget that being a good human being, at peace with yourself and conscious of the needs of your family and the larger community around you are more important than everything else.