My Boarding School Journey: Learning to Be Independent

My name is Rudra Prakash, and I study in Class 5B. I am a boarding student living in Tulip Home at The Mānn School. Today, I want to share my experience about how boarding school has helped shape my character and changed my life.

I was scared before joining the school as I relied on my parents for everything. But I want to admit that our school has changed me completely. Now I have become independent, confident, creative and always eager to participate in co-curricular activities enthusiastically.

Living away from home requires us to manage our daily routines right from personal hygiene to making our bed or organising our things in the cupboards. One of the most interesting parts of boarding school is meeting students from different parts of India and even other countries. Living together with students from diverse backgrounds helps us learn about different cultures, traditions, and ideas.

Sometimes, boarding life also brings challenges, such as academic pressure, small disagreements with friends, or adjusting to a new environment. But these experiences make us stronger. We learn how to solve problems, stay calm, and support one another.

Boarding school also gives us the freedom to explore our interests. I now participate enthusiastically in many co-curricular activities, which has helped me become more creative and confident. As a result, my teachers considered my qualities suitable for the post of ‘Primary School- Captain (Boys)’.

In my opinion, my journey in our boarding school has taught me many valuable lessons, and I believe it is truly helping me grow into a better and stronger person.

My Memorable First Assembly

 

My first assembly in the senior school was a very special and memorable day for me. I was excited but also a little nervous because it was my first time speaking in front of senior students. My heart was beating fast, but I really wanted to do my best. I had also practised my lines many times at home and in school to prepare myself well. My parents and teachers encouraged me, which gave me more confidence.

That day, I woke up early and got ready for school. I revised my script once again before leaving home. However, I got a little late and was worried that I might miss the assembly. I hurried to school and felt very relieved when I reached on time.

The theme of the assembly was “Namami Gange,” which was about saving and respecting our holy river Ganga. It was an important and meaningful topic. I was given the responsibility of comparing the assembly. When I went on the stage, my hands were shaking and I felt nervous, but soon I took a deep breath, smiled, became confident, and spoke clearly.

As the assembly went on, I started enjoying myself on the stage. Seeing everyone listening carefully made me feel happy and proud. I learned that confidence grows when we face our fears and believe in ourselves.

After the assembly, the Headmaster Sir and other teachers appreciated me for being confident. Their kind and encouraging words made me feel very proud and happy. My friends also smiled at me and congratulated me, which made the day even more special. When I returned to my class, I felt relaxed and satisfied.

I am really thankful to my teachers for preparing me and giving me this wonderful opportunity. This assembly taught me to be brave and believe in myself. It will always remain a beautiful and unforgettable memory for me.

— Vanya Chahal

Class -VI

Dayanand House

My Journey as the Horse-Riding Captain

My journey to becoming the Horse-Riding Captain began with my deep love for horses and my eagerness to learn. The more I rode, the more my passion grew. I still remember the day I came to this school for admission. I was very excited when I saw the horses, and that was one of the main reasons I chose this school. At that time, I never imagined that I would one day become the Horse-Riding Captain.

While learning to ride, I fell many times, but I never gave up. Each time I fell, I got up quickly and tried again. Horse riding is one of the greatest achievements of my school life at The Mānn School. Although I started riding only after joining this school, with the guidance of our teacher, Bharat Sir, I became a confident rider within just two years. Riding helped me build confidence and made me feel free and relaxed.

After nearly five years, I became the first girl to participate in the Annual Horse Show and take part in show jumping. Even before I realised it, I had started motivating my juniors to try horse riding, cantering and jumping. Seeing them gain confidence and show the same enthusiasm that I once had made me feel proud to be their captain.

As a result of my efforts and dedication, I was awarded Best Rider of the Year 2025–26, an honour I will cherish forever. Horse riding may seem scary at first, but once you learn it, it becomes a source of pride and joy. The true success of my journey lies in knowing that my perseverance, discipline and love for riding made my parents proud. Their faith in me turns every fall into a lesson and every victory into a responsibility to keep growing.

— C Lalremfeli

(Buddha House and Horse-Riding Captain)

AFTER MY CLASS XII

 

Right now, being in Class 12, feels like standing at the edge of something big. Every day revolves around books, notes, and revision plans, and the pressure of board exams is always at the back of my mind. Some days are exhausting, filled with self-doubt and late-night study sessions. Other days, I feel confident and motivated, reminding myself that this struggle is temporary and each ounce of effort is contributing to something big.

What keeps me going is the thought that school life is finally coming to an end. After spending so many years following routines, bells, and rules, the idea of moving on feels both scary and exciting, so much so that it can be hard to fathom at times. Board exam is not just about marks for me; it represents growth, efforts, and the courage to step into a new phase of life.

The thought of college life fills me with excitement with an underlying feeling of nervousness, which is quite natural. I look forward to meeting new people, learning independently, discovering who I really am and take a leap towards my goal in life. College feels like a place where experiences matter as much as academics. For now, I am giving my best to ace these exams, knowing that every page I study is bringing me closer to a future full of freedom, learning, and unforgettable moments. The mere thought of bidding adieu to Alma mater sends chills down my spine, hence I would never  like to miss any opportunity to revisit the nostalgic memory lanes of my dear Alma mater, The Mann School.

-by

Aditya Daksh

Student Editor (Dept. of Science)

Class XII

Vyas House

Swimming: Built by the Water

 

Swimming has never been just a sport for me. It is the place where I have grown, struggled, learnt, and found myself. Some of my earliest and most important lessons have come not from classrooms, but from the quiet hours spent in the pool. Over time, the water has become my anchor and my coach, teaching me that effort matters and that consistency, more than talent, is what truly shapes you.

What I love most about swimming is how honestly it treats you. In the water, your entire body works together. Every stroke needs coordination, strength, and balance. There is no hiding from the effort. Some days feel light and smooth, while others feel heavy and exhausting, but every lap adds something. Slowly, without you even noticing, endurance builds, confidence grows, and your body becomes stronger. Swimming has taught me patience and respect for the process.

Beyond the physical side, swimming has shaped my mindset. Learning to control my breathing during difficult sets and races, has helped me stay calm under pressure. There are moments in the pool when quitting feels easier than continuing, and choosing to push through those moments has taught me resilience. Those lessons follow me outside the pool, into my studies and everyday challenges.

As a Class XII student, life often feels fast and overwhelming. Swimming gives me a sense of balance. The rhythm of the water helps quiet my thoughts and clear my head. After a swim, I feel lighter, more focused, and ready to face whatever comes next. It reminds me that slowing down can sometimes make you stronger.

Balancing training with academics has not been easy, but it has made me disciplined and organised. Early mornings, strict routines, and tired evenings have taught me the value of commitment. Swimming has shown me that progress is not about sudden breakthroughs, but about showing up every day, even when motivation is low.

In the end, swimming is much more than exercise for me. It is where I learnt self-belief, patience, and strength. As a student and a national level swimmer, swimming continues to inspire me to face life’s challenges with confidence and purpose. Built by the water, I carry its lessons with me, wherever I go.

Ameya Kaushal
Class XII

From Stress to Confidence: My Class 10 Board Preparation

As a Class 10 student, the approach of board examinations brings a lot of stress and anxiety. The syllabus feels vast, time feels limited, and the constant importance given to boards makes the pressure even heavier and more intense. No matter how much I study, I often feel underprepared and worried about my performance in examinations.

When my school announced winter classes, my first reaction was hesitation. The winter break feels like the only chance to rest, and honestly, laziness also plays a part. Waking up early on cold mornings and attending classes does not sound appealing at all. However, after joining the classes, I slowly realise how helpful they are and how they are helping me revise the chapters.

The winter classes provide a proper routine and clear direction to my preparation. Teachers revise important chapters, clarify doubts, and guide us on how to approach questions effectively. Studying in a classroom environment helps me stay focused and disciplined, which is difficult to achieve while studying alone at home. The regular tests being taken also help me track my performance.

Gradually, my fear of exams has started reducing. Regular revision and constant support from teachers have enhanced my confidence. Concepts that once seem difficult are becoming clearer, and I am beginning to trust my preparation and my right decision of attending the winter camp.

In the end, this phase has taught me that stepping out of my comfort zone and overcoming laziness is necessary during important times. The winter classes not only improve my preparation but also help me handle exam stress better. This experience is becoming an important and memorable part of my Class 10 journey.

Shourya Shandilya

Class 10

More Than Just a Language: My Journey with German Classes

Sometimes, a class becomes much more than a subject—it becomes a beautiful memory. My German classes at school are one such experience that I will always cherish.

It all began one day when we were informed about German language lessons and were invited to give our names if we were interested. I was immediately excited and wrote my name without a second thought. I never imagined how special this decision would turn out to be.

Our German classes were held during the 5th and 6th lessons, and they were taken by Mr Joachim Keferstein, a teacher who made learning truly enjoyable.

Mr Joachim Keferstein, former Head of Department in the NRW Ministry of Education, Germany, where he was responsible for secondary schools, European schools, and UNESCO schools. Despite his vast experience and international stature, Sir was extremely humble, warm, and friendly with all of us, which made learning German a joyful experience.

Although I missed the first class and found it difficult to understand the second one, Sir’s patience, encouragement, and positive attitude motivated me to keep trying. He never made us feel afraid of making mistakes and always inspired us to do better.

With regular practice and Sir’s constant guidance, we gradually became more confident. One day, Sir announced that we would prepare a skit in German. He selected five students and trusted me with the role of a teacher. His belief in me gave me immense confidence. We practised several times, and even when Sir had to travel to Shimla, he made sure we were well prepared by sending us voice messages to help improve our pronunciation. This showed how deeply he cared about our learning.

On the day of the skit, I was nervous but determined to give my best. After the performance, Sir announced that he would award the titles of 'Best Girl’ and ‘Best Boy’ in front of our respected Principal Sir and HM Sir. I had no expectations, so when Sir announced my name as the 'Best Girl in the German Class', I was overjoyed and proud. To make the moment even more special, Sir gifted me a sports jersey of the famous German footballer Müller, which I will always treasure.

Mr. Keferstein did not just teach us a language; he shared stories about his family, culture, and life, making every class lively and meaningful. Learning from him was a truly mesmerising experience. As a warm farewell, he even arranged a small party for all the German students in the school mess, which showed his affection and connection with us.

I am very sure that I will miss him a lot. Mr. Keferstein has left a lasting impact on me and has inspired me to continue learning German. I hope that one day I will visit Germany and meet him again. This journey has taught me that a great teacher can turn learning into a lifelong memory.

Aaliya Saifi

Class 7