Abhishek Vashishtha

Background

I come from a small town in India where education is highly valued. My parents always encouraged me to study hard and pursue my dreams. I was fascinated by the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and wanted to become a part of it.

Study Plan

I started preparing for the UPSC exam 2 years in advance. I created a rigorous study plan that included reading a wide range of topics, including history, geography, politics, and economics. I also made sure to practice previous year's question papers and mock interviews.

Challenges

The biggest challenge I faced was balancing my study schedule with other responsibilities. I had to work part-time to support my family and also take care of my younger siblings. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and wanted to give up, but I pushed through and stayed focused.

Strategies

To overcome my challenges, I developed a few key strategies. Firstly, I prioritized my studies and made sure to allocate sufficient time for each subject. I also joined a study group where I met other aspirants who were going through similar experiences. We motivated each other and shared our knowledge to help each other succeed.

Interview Experience

The interview experience was both exhilarating and intimidating. I was nervous but prepared. I made sure to research the panelists and their areas of expertise. I also practiced answering common interview questions and developed my communication skills.

Success

My hard work and determination paid off when I received the news that I had cracked the UPSC exam. I was overjoyed and relieved at the same time. It was a moment of pure elation and I felt proud of myself for achieving my goal.

• Stay focused and motivated: It's essential to stay motivated and focused throughout your preparation. Set achievable goals and celebrate your small wins along the way.
• Develop a study plan: Create a study plan that suits your needs and schedule. Make sure to allocate sufficient time for each subject and practice previous year's question papers.
• Join a study group: Joining a study group can be a great way to connect with other aspirants and learn from their experiences. It can also provide a sense of community and support.
• Practice communication skills: Develop your communication skills by practicing with mock interviews and speaking with others. This will help you feel more confident and prepared for the actual interview.
• Stay calm and composed: It's essential to stay calm and composed during the interview. Take deep breaths and remember that it's a conversation, not an interrogation.
• Be yourself: Be true to yourself and don't try to be someone you're not. The panelists want to see your personality and how you think, so be authentic and confident.