Aniket Agrawal

Background

Growing up, I was always fascinated by the world of politics and governance. I remember spending hours watching news channels and reading about current events. As I grew older, my interest in politics only deepened, and I decided to pursue a career in the civil services.

Study Plan

My study plan was quite rigorous, to say the least. I would wake up early every morning at 5:00 AM and start my day with a 2-hour reading session. I would cover a mix of current affairs, history, and geography, making sure to note down key points and concepts. After my reading session, I would take a 30-minute break before diving into my optional subject, which was geography. I would spend the next 3-4 hours studying geography, making sure to cover all the topics and practice as many questions as possible. The rest of the day would be spent revising and practicing previous year's papers.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges I faced during my preparation was time management. With a full-time job and a family to take care of, it was difficult to find time to study. But I was determined to succeed, and I made sure to prioritize my studies. I would often sacrifice my weekends and holidays to study, and I would also wake up early every morning to get a head start on my day.

Strategies

So, what worked for me? Well, I would say that my strategy was quite simple yet effective. I made sure to create a study schedule that was realistic and achievable, and I stuck to it religiously. I also made sure to take regular breaks to avoid burnout, and I would often reward myself with small treats after completing a difficult task. Another key strategy that worked for me was my focus on current affairs. I made sure to read the newspaper every day and stay up-to-date with current events. I would also make sure to note down key points and concepts, and I would review them regularly.

Interview Experience

The interview experience was both nerve-wracking and exhilarating. I had been preparing for this moment for years, and I was determined to give it my best shot. The interview panel consisted of 5 members, and they asked me a mix of questions on current affairs, history, and geography. I made sure to answer each question confidently and to the point, and I also made sure to ask questions of my own to show my interest in the subject.

Success

Securing the 297th rank in the UPSC CSE 2023 was a dream come true. It was a culmination of all my hard work and dedication, and I was overjoyed when I received the news. I would say that my success was not just about achieving a good rank, but also about the journey that I had undertaken. It was a journey of self-discovery, growth, and learning, and I would recommend it to anyone who is passionate about making a difference in the world.