What UPSC has taught me? - Shraddha Pandey ( CSE 2015- AIR 508, ICLS)

Shraddha Pandey.

Grad- M.Tech. (Biotechnology)

4th attempt

AFHQ service in last attempt,

Optional- History
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"A small nudge by my batch-mate Akshay Patil was enough to make me pour down thoughts on paper. This exam tends to take the centre-stage of  lives of many of us.

And this exam takes, takes a lot:

It takes time, effort, missing out on social functions, being absent in many of the cherished moments of friends and family. An aspirant normally becomes an introvert and/or a recluse, and more often than not is misunderstood.

But preparing for this exam also gives; and the rewards are disproportionately large:

So here is what I have learnt and gained from my journey so far:

1.Wisdom: I’m surely wiser because of reams of reading and writing, beyond my age and mental capacity. This journey has surely made me an asset to my country and the society at large.

2.Self Belief:I was honestly down and out, several times during my preparation. It is still surprising that I could still continue to move forward. Now, I believe I can achieve anything.

3.Opportunity: To interact with some of the finest minds- teachers, mentors, civil servants and batch-mates. To connect with like minded friends who will surely be accomplices for a life time.

4.Humility: I am humbled by the variety of problems that I have been exposed to within and outside of my country. I will always be small, no matter where I go from here.

5.Acceptance: I have come to accept difference of opinions, failures, unexpected results and inexplicable circumstances. “It will be folly to ignore realities; facts take their revenge if they are not faced squarely and well.” Sardar Patel’s words always dominate all my actions and force me to be  true to myself. If it was not for preparation then I would have probably never read him, among many other fine individuals. 

Preparing for and cracking a very tough exam has made me a more sensible and sensitive person. And I can tell all the aspirants that this is only an exam, a test. Please recognize that it is just that. And then see how it enriches you. If you are doing it right and genuinely  then it will not drain you. 

Best wishes and much love to all those who follow this path."