From March Past to Mind Maps: My Unexpected Journey to House Prefect

If you had told me a year ago that I would become the Prefect of Sankalp House (Red House), I probably would have laughed and said, “Me? I just like doing things my way.” But somehow, between the echoing footsteps of the 26th January march past and the late-night reflections after Twilight Camp, something changed. Or maybe someone noticed what I had not noticed in myself yet.

It all started with the Twilight Camp. I was not expecting much, just another leadership camp, a few tasks, maybe a group discussion or two. But the way the event unfolded, I found myself naturally slipping into the role of a quiet leader, directing when needed, but mostly listening, understanding, and making space for others. That camp was not about showing off leadership with big speeches or strict discipline; it was about real connections, teamwork, late-night laughs, and pushing each other forward even when we were tired.

And that’s where she noticed me, my house in-charge. She had seen me in the middle of all the chaos, not barking orders, but holding space. She told me later how fascinated she was by how I led without dominating. It was not just her. Other teachers, house mentors, they saw something too. They did not just appoint me as a formality; they believed in me. That hit different. Because this was not about popularity or being the loudest voice, it was about impact.

Becoming the Sankalp House Prefect was not just a title. It became a responsibility I started falling in love with. Leading the house in the Republic Day march past was one of those moments where I felt it deeply. Standing in formation, sweat on my forehead, correcting the posture of juniors, motivating them when they got tired I realised I was not just marching anymore. I was evolving.

Earlier, I thought leadership meant control. Now I am learning that it means understanding. Instead of scolding students or telling them what not to do, I have started asking myself, why are they acting this way? What are they feeling? What do they need from me? I am analyzing more, observing more, even feeling a bit like a psychologist-in-the-making (which, let’s be honest, is kinda fun).

Every day is like a mini human experiment, I am learning patience, people skills, and emotional intelligence in the realest way possible. And it feels good. I am not trying to be the “perfect” leader anymore. I am trying to be a present one. One who listens, adapts, and leads by example.

So, here is to the teacher who believed in me before I did. Here is to the house teachers who backed that belief. And here is to the journey ahead, messy, meaningful, and so, so worth it.