Akshansh Yadav

Background

I come from a traditional family where my parents always encouraged me to pursue my dreams. I was born and brought up in a small town in India where I completed my school education. I was always fascinated by the way the world worked and wanted to make a difference in people's lives.

Study Plan

My journey to becoming a civil servant began when I was in college. I started preparing for the UPSC CSE by reading books on current affairs, history, and geography. I also joined a coaching institute to get guidance from experienced teachers. My study plan was divided into three phases - the first phase was dedicated to building a strong foundation in the basics, the second phase focused on in-depth studies, and the third phase was all about practice and revision.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges I faced during my preparation was time management. I had to balance my studies with other responsibilities like part-time jobs and volunteering. I also had to deal with self-doubt and fear of failure, which was a major setback. However, I never gave up and kept pushing myself to work harder.

Strategies

To overcome the challenges I faced, I developed a few strategies that helped me stay focused and motivated. Firstly, I created a schedule and stuck to it. I also made sure to take breaks and engage in activities that I enjoyed, like reading fiction and watching movies. Secondly, I surrounded myself with positive people who encouraged me to pursue my dreams. Lastly, I learned to manage my stress and anxiety by practicing yoga and meditation.

Interview Experience

The interview experience was a mix of emotions for me. I was nervous but excited at the same time. I was asked a range of questions from current affairs to my hobbies. I made sure to be myself and answer the questions honestly. I also made sure to ask questions and engage in conversations with the panel members.

Success

Securing a rank 109 in the UPSC CSE was a dream come true for me. It was a result of my hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I learned that success is not just about achieving a goal, but also about the journey that you take to get there. I am grateful for the experience and the lessons that I learned along the way.

• Stay focused and motivated
• Create a schedule and stick to it
• Surround yourself with positive people
• Manage your stress and anxiety
• Be yourself and answer honestly
• Ask questions and engage in conversations
• **Learn from your mistakes and keep moving forward