Priyanka Goel, AIR-369 CSE-22 Journey & Public Administration

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Priyanka Goel's Triumphant Journey to UPSC CSE 2022 Success

Securing an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 369 in the prestigious UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2022 is a testament to Priyanka Goel's unwavering determination and resilience. Hailing from Delhi, Priyanka's journey to this remarkable achievement was marked by challenges, setbacks, and ultimately, a well-deserved victory.

A Challenging but Rewarding Journey

Priyanka's UPSC CSE journey spanned a total of six attempts, each one filled with its own set of obstacles and learnings. From her first attempt when she had limited knowledge about the exam, to subsequent attempts where she faced the anguish of missing the cut-off by a mere 0.7 marks, Priyanka's path to success was anything but smooth.

However, Priyanka's resolve only grew stronger with each setback. She meticulously analyzed her weaknesses, worked on improving them, and continued to push forward, refusing to give up on her dreams. "Every time I fell, I told myself, 'Priyanka, you can do it. Just one more time,'" she recalls, highlighting the unwavering determination that fueled her journey.

Overcoming Adversity and Uncertainties

The fourth attempt saw Priyanka clear the Preliminary Examination with impressive scores in the General Studies (GS) paper, only to fall short in the CSAT (Civil Services Aptitude Test) section. This setback led to a surge of self-doubt, but Priyanka refused to let it dampen her spirit.

The fifth attempt presented yet another challenge, as Priyanka's mother faced a serious health crisis with 80% lung damage due to COVID-19. Despite the emotional turmoil and the inability to revise thoroughly, Priyanka still appeared for the examination, though she acknowledged that she should have opted for a deferral that year.

The Final and Victorious Attempt

Priyanka's sixth and final attempt was a true test of her resilience. "There was a lot of pressure from society as well, about getting married and other things," she recalls, yet her determination to succeed never wavered. This attempt proved to be the turning point in her UPSC journey, as she secured the impressive AIR of 369 in the CSE 2022 examination.

"When I saw the result, all the 6-7 years of struggle and pain flashed through my eyes, and all of it rolled down my cheeks in the form of tears. It was a moment of bliss," Priyanka reflects, her voice brimming with emotion.

Lessons Learned and Strategies Shared

Throughout her journey, Priyanka gradually learned valuable lessons, identifying her weaknesses and working diligently to overcome them. She is particularly proud of her performance in the Public Administration Optional, where she managed to increase her marks from 216 to 292, a testament to her strategic approach.

Priyanka shares her insights on improving marks in the Public Administration Optional:

Understand the Syllabus

1. Read and memorize the syllabus to better understand the paper and effectively link current affairs.

Focus on Conceptual Clarity

2. Develop a strong conceptual understanding of the topics, as theory and concepts are crucial for writing impactful answers.

Curate Focused Study Material

3. Limit study materials and resources to a select few, such as "Prasad N Prasad" for thinkers in Paper 1, "New Public Administration" by Mohit Bhattacharya, and Lukmaan IAS notes, to facilitate effective note-making and multiple revisions.

Efficient Note-making

4. Prepare concise, pointer-based notes for almost all chapters, following the syllabus. This helps with quick revision and information retention.

Value Addition

5. Incorporate thinkers, current examples, case studies, diagrams, and intriguing quotes to enrich the answers and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the subject.

Consistent Practice

6. Engage in regular answer writing practice and attempt full-length mock papers within the prescribed time limits to hone exam-taking skills.

Priyanka's journey serves as an inspiring example of the power of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams. "Winners are not born. They rise from the ashes of failures. Endure them and succeed," she eloquently advises aspiring UPSC candidates.

Through her story, Priyanka has not only achieved her own personal triumph but has also provided valuable insights and strategies that can benefit future UPSC aspirants navigating the challenging path to civil service excellence.

Acknowledgments and Gratitude

Priyanka expresses her immense gratitude to the various individuals who have been her pillars of support throughout this journey. "I feel fortunate enough to have the best parents, teachers, mentors, and friends who have been my backbone throughout and will always be," she affirms.

Priyanka's success is not just a personal achievement but a testament to the power of a strong support system and the unwavering belief in one's abilities, even in the face of adversity. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all those who dare to dream and the determination to turn those dreams into reality.