Success Story: In the intricate tapestry of human ambition, there are stories that stand out, not just for their success but for the journey that leads to it. Such is the tale of Santosh Kumar Mishra of Bihar, whose determination led him from the fields of his village to the modern offices of Microsoft.
An Unlikely Protagonist:
Santosh Kumar Mishra, currently an esteemed employee at Microsoft, began his life far removed from the world of technology. Born in a small village in Bihar, he faced a plethora of challenges, including multiple academic setbacks.
Modest Beginnings:
Santosh’s early years were marked by simplicity and hardship. His village school, where he studied up to the 10th grade in Hindi medium, lacked electricity. Simultaneously, he balanced his academic pursuits with assisting his family in farming.
A Crossroad of Choices:
After completing his high school education, Santosh’s parents envisioned a life of farming for him, even suggesting the possibility of starting a local shop. But a fire burned within Santosh. Through persuasion, he convinced his parents to allow him to venture to Patna for higher studies.
Battles with Failure:
Initially, the path of academics seemed rocky for Santosh. With a rank exceeding 7 lakhs in AIEEE (now JEE Mains), he gave up the IIT dream. Pursuing opportunities in diverse sectors like the Air Force, Navy, Railways, and banks, he faced multiple rejections. But every failure only strengthened his resolve.
Turning the Tide:
Santosh decided to pursue a BCA degree, and despite stumbling in various MCA exams, his determination remained unyielding. His hard work eventually bore fruit, earning him an impressive AIR 4th rank in MCA IIT BHU and placing him in the top 100 ranks in other examinations.
Challenges with Language:
An aspect that made Santosh’s academic journey even more challenging was his unfamiliarity with the English language. It was only during his time at NIT Trichy that he had his first tryst with English-medium education. This transition wasn’t smooth, resulting in him securing the lowest marks in his class for the initial six semesters and missing out on internships.
Overcoming Adversity with Self-Belief:
Many doubted Santosh’s abilities, criticizing his communication skills and pronunciation. The naysayers were numerous, but Santosh’s self-belief was unwavering. He recollects, “People often told me I couldn’t achieve anything. But I believed in myself.” Today, he stands tall, not just as a testament to his perseverance but as an inspiration to many, as he navigates through the halls of Microsoft.
Santosh’s story reminds us that with determination, hard work, and self-belief, no dream is too far-fetched.