Shaurya Arora UPSC AIR 14 (2023)

Background

I've always been fascinated by the world of Physics, and my interest in the subject began in school. I was particularly drawn to the way Physics could explain complex phenomena in the universe. As I delved deeper into the subject, I realized that it wasn't just about formulas and equations, but about understanding the underlying principles that govern our reality.\n\n### Study Plan My study plan was quite rigorous, with a focus on understanding the fundamental concepts of Physics. I started by revising the NCERT textbooks and then moved on to more advanced topics. I also made sure to practice a lot of problems and past year papers to get a feel for the type of questions that were asked in the exam. One of the key strategies that worked for me was to identify my strengths and weaknesses and tailor my study plan accordingly. I also made sure to take regular breaks and engage in physical activities to keep my mind fresh.\n\n### Challenges One of the biggest challenges I faced during my preparation was time management. With a lot of material to cover and a limited amount of time, it was easy to get overwhelmed. I also struggled with certain topics, such as Quantum Mechanics, which required a lot of practice and patience to understand. However, I didn't give up and kept working hard, and eventually, I started to see improvements in my performance.\n\n### Strategies To overcome the challenges I faced, I employed a few strategies that worked well for me. Firstly, I made sure to set realistic goals and deadlines for myself, which helped me stay focused and motivated. I also created a schedule that allowed me to balance my studies with other activities, such as reading and exercise. Another key strategy that worked for me was to seek help from my peers and mentors when I needed it. I also made sure to take care of my physical and mental health, which was essential for maintaining my energy and motivation levels.\n\n### Interview Experience The interview experience was a mix of excitement and nervousness for me. I was well-prepared for the questions that were asked, but I still felt a bit anxious about how I would perform. However, as the interview progressed, I started to feel more confident and comfortable. The panel members were very friendly and asked me a range of questions that tested my knowledge and skills. I was able to answer most of the questions confidently, and I felt proud of myself for having prepared so well.\n\n### Success Looking back, I realize that my success in the UPSC exam was not just about my preparation, but also about my attitude and mindset. I was determined to succeed, and I was willing to put in the hard work and effort required to achieve my goal. I also learned a lot from my experiences, both successes and failures, and I will carry those lessons with me for the rest of my life.