Roja S Rajan (AIR-108, CSE-21) Comprehensive Strategy
Hi All, Following is a very detailed strategy and gist of UPSC journey that helped Roja S Rajan crack CSE-21 with AIR-108 in her 2nd attempt. Her strategy in her own words: I am Roja S Rajan. I have secured AIR-108 in UPSC CSE 2021. I am born and brought up in Trivandrum and did
Roja S Rajan's Journey to UPSC CSE Success
Roja S Rajan is a remarkable individual who has achieved the impressive feat of securing All India Rank 108 in the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) 2021. Born and raised in Trivandrum, Kerala, Roja's journey to this success is a testament to her unwavering determination, meticulous planning, and a deep-rooted passion for public service.
Roja's interest in the UPSC Civil Services Examination can be traced back to 2013, when Haritha V Kumar, a fellow Keralite, secured the coveted AIR 1 rank. This inspirational achievement ignited a flame within Roja, and she set her sights on the UPSC dream. After completing her Computer Science and Engineering graduation from Sree Chitra Thirunal College of Engineering, Trivandrum, Roja worked as an Engineer at Tata Elxsi in Trivandrum.
Initial Attempts and Setbacks
Roja's UPSC journey officially began in 2019, but her preparations started much earlier. She chose Anthropology as her optional subject and faced her first setback when she couldn't clear the CSAT paper in her initial attempt. However, Roja did not let this deter her. Instead, she used the time gained from this failure to strengthen her preparation and clear the examination in her second attempt.
Coaching and Integrated Preparation
After some initial confusion over whether to opt for guidance or self-study, Roja decided to enroll in coaching at ilearn IAS in Trivandrum. She adopted an integrated approach, focusing on gaining conceptual clarity and subject expertise for both the Prelims and Mains examinations. From June to November, Roja dedicated herself to this comprehensive preparation.
In November, Roja joined a Prelims test series and started taking weekly sectional tests to cover the Prelims syllabus. Simultaneously, she enrolled in a Mains Answer Writing Program, where she wrote weekly one-hour tests. This holistic approach, combined with consistent mentorship support, helped Roja assess her performance and identify areas for improvement.
Anthropology Preparation and Mains Preparation
For Anthropology, Roja relied on basic materials in the market suggested by toppers, making notes and compiling her Paper 1 Anthro notes. By February 2020, she had completed her Mains preparation, but the exam's postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic gave her more time to revise and strengthen her preparation.
During this period, Roja started writing essays on a weekly basis and got them evaluated by her mentors. However, she confesses that her General Studies (GS) preparation was neglected during this time.
Prelims Setback and Comeback
In September 2020, Roja focused exclusively on Prelims preparation. Despite passing the first paper's cut-off, she could not appear for the Mains examination due to a failure in the CSAT paper. This setback severely impacted her confidence and spirit, and it took her around two months to get back on track.
Roja took a short break, went to Goa, and spent time on rejuvenation and contemplation. She emerged from this experience with renewed determination and energy, determined to do whatever it takes to achieve her goal.
Comprehensive Preparation and Focused Approach
Roja then completed the GS 3 syllabus, giving sectional and full tests, and making good notes. She also took Paper 2 of Anthropology and wrote three-hour sectional tests under the guidance of Bala Sir.
When the Prelims exam was postponed again, Roja saw it as a blessing in disguise. She enrolled in the Forum MGP program and started writing sectional tests on a weekly basis, along with a friend. This strategy of mimicking the study plan between Prelims and Mains gave them both a significant boost in confidence.
Mains Preparation and Stellar Performance
After clearing the Prelims, Roja enrolled in one set of test series each for Anthropology and GS. She focused on paper completion and answer quality, and under the expert guidance of Shinas Sir at ilearn, her answer-writing skills improved exponentially.
Roja's dedication and hard work paid off, as she secured impressive scores in the Mains examination: 114 in GS 2, 119 in GS 4, 131 in Essay, and 151 in Anthropology Paper 2.
Time Management and Discipline
Roja's time management and discipline were key factors in her success. She started with a strict 8-10 hour daily study routine, which she gradually increased to 10-12 hours. Roja's approach was to be in a constant state of preparation, feeling guilty for any unplanned enjoyment or time wastage.
Conclusion
Roja S Rajan's journey to UPSC CSE success is a remarkable story of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to her goal. Her comprehensive preparation strategy, combined with her ability to bounce back from setbacks, has made her an inspiration to aspiring civil servants. Roja's success serves as a testament to the power of focus, hard work, and a steadfast determination to achieve one's dreams.