Garima Lohia

Background

I remember the day I decided to take the UPSC exam like it was yesterday. I had always been fascinated by the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and the impact it has on people's lives. I was determined to join the ranks of the most elite civil servants in the country.

Study Plan

My study plan was quite unconventional. I didn't follow any specific schedule or routine. Instead, I relied on my instincts and let my interests guide me. I started by reading a lot of books on history, economics, and politics. I also made sure to keep myself updated with current events by following news channels and newspapers.

Challenges

The journey to the top was not easy. There were times when I felt like giving up, but I didn't. I faced a lot of challenges, from struggling with complex concepts to dealing with self-doubt. But I never lost sight of my goal.

Strategies

My strategy was to focus on my strengths and weaknesses. I identified my areas of improvement and worked on them. I also made sure to practice a lot of questions from previous year papers. I joined a coaching institute to get guidance from experienced teachers.

Interview Experience

The interview was a surreal experience. I was nervous but confident at the same time. I was asked a lot of questions, from simple ones to complex ones. But I was prepared and answered them confidently. I remember one question in particular - 'What do you think is the most pressing issue facing our country today?' I took a deep breath and answered it to the best of my abilities.

Success

I was overjoyed when I received the news that I had cleared the exam. It was a feeling like no other. I had worked hard for it, and it felt amazing to see my efforts pay off. I realized that success is not just about achieving a goal, but also about the journey you take to get there.

• Always stay focused and motivated
• Identify your strengths and weaknesses
• Practice a lot of questions
• Join a coaching institute
• Stay updated with current events
• Believe in yourself
• Don't be afraid to take risks
• Keep learning and growing
• Stay humble and grounded
• Work hard and persevere
• Stay positive and optimistic