Harshita Goyal

Background

I come from a small town in Haryana, Hisar, and was raised in Gujarat. I'm a Chartered Accountant by qualification, which might seem unrelated to the UPSC, but it actually helped me develop strong analytical skills and attention to detail. I've always been interested in public service, and my family has been a huge source of motivation for me.

Study Plan

My study plan was quite structured. I started preparing for the UPSC exam about 18 months before the actual test date. I made a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for each subject and topic. I also created a study group with a few friends who were also preparing for the exam. We would meet regularly to discuss our progress, share notes, and motivate each other.

• I began with a thorough understanding of the syllabus and the exam pattern.
• I created a list of topics that I needed to cover and prioritized them based on their importance.
• I made a habit of reading newspapers and current affairs magazines to stay updated on the latest events.
• I also watched online lectures and videos to supplement my learning.

Challenges

One of the biggest challenges I faced during my preparation was maintaining a balance between my work and studies. As a CA, I had to work on a project while preparing for the UPSC exam. It was tough to juggle both, but I managed to do it by creating a separate study space and allocating specific times for work and studies.

• I had to deal with self-doubt and fear of failure at times.
• I faced difficulties in understanding some of the complex topics, but I didn't give up.
• I had to manage my time effectively to complete my studies and work on my project.

Strategies

To overcome these challenges, I employed several strategies. I made sure to take regular breaks to avoid burnout and maintain my mental health. I also joined a study group, which helped me stay motivated and focused. I used flashcards to memorize key terms and concepts, and I practiced writing essays and answers to improve my writing skills.

• I used the Pomodoro Technique to stay focused and avoid distractions.
• I created a vision board to visualize my goals and stay motivated.
• I practiced yoga and meditation to manage my stress and anxiety.

Interview Experience

The interview experience was nerve-wracking, but I was well-prepared. I had practiced answering common interview questions and had a good understanding of current affairs. I was asked a mix of questions on my optional subject, current affairs, and general knowledge.

• I was asked about my strengths and weaknesses.
• I was asked to explain a complex topic in simple terms.
• I was asked about my future plans and goals.

Success

Securing AIR 2 in the UPSC CSE 2024 was a dream come true for me. It was a result of my hard work, dedication, and perseverance. I'm proud of myself for achieving this milestone, and I hope to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

• I attribute my success to my strong foundation in the basics.
• I believe that staying focused and motivated is key to achieving success.
• I think that having a clear goal in mind and working towards it is essential for achieving success.