Despite the early morning schedule, school was our gateway to a wonderful new home without family drama and what not. Everyone wore the same uniform, had equal opportunities, and most importantly, friendships made were heartfelt.

If someone asked me what I have learned from my school, I won’t be able to answer it in one sentence. For the lessons are irreplaceable and I can never be thankful enough for them. I learned to share because of my school. 

Friendships are most likely the first thing your mind runs to when reminiscing high school – timeless memories, both silly and solemn, flooding in, like wiping out some letters to make funny new words when the teacher left the board un-erased; finding innovative excuses for homework not done; the forbidden thrill of eating tiffin or chewing gum during class; paperball fights; passing notes when the teacher made you sit separately; scribbling God-knows-what on desks and so on.

Then there are the billion other memories outside class: sharing the adrenaline rush during basketball practice/tournaments; blowing up that crystal experiment at chem lab; or just lounging in comfortable silence at the library.

As these seemingly insignificant moments passed by routinely, all of a sudden adult life happened. There was no longer a reason to see friends every day, share tiffin, and nag that straight A friend for treats. Even when you DO organise reunions, some can't make it because they've flown thousands of miles away for university. That's when it hits – how these moments ultimately make school unforgettably meaningful – and you can't help but feel poignant.

Today when I look and think what legacy my school has given me, nostalgia pops up followed by tears of joy and remembrance.

MPS has given me countless memories, thousand lessons and most importantly a direction in life.

Also, Do you think that I will end this speech without acknowledging our teachers? Well, that is simply impossible. Dear teachers, what we are today is because of you.

Furthermore, the knowledge that you imparted to us is one of the most valuable things in our lives. This knowledge that you gave us will be our weapon for the life ahead. Respected teachers, you occupy a very high status in the life of every student.

Rest assured, one thing is for sure :-I shall always be a part of the school and the school shall always be a part of me.

Avi Jain