Every year, numerous aspirants attempt the UPSC Civil Services examination, dreaming of donning the esteemed role of an IAS officer. Among them was Swati Sharma, who transformed her passion for Economics into her gateway to success.
Swati Sharma’s journey wasn’t an overnight sensation. It took her five long years, marked by dedication and determination, to clinch the 17th rank in the 2019 UPSC examination. Notably, her journey was marked by a series of attempts – four, to be precise, before she savored the taste of success.
A Delhi University alumnus, Swati majored in Economics, later pursuing her master’s from the eminent Jawaharlal Nehru University. With such a profound academic background in Economics, it was a natural choice for her to pick it as her optional subject in the UPSC exams. Little did anyone know, this decision would pave the way for an incredible achievement. In 2019, Swati astounded many by setting a record; she secured the highest score in the optional subject, setting a precedent for future aspirants.
However, success in UPSC is not just about subject knowledge; it’s about strategy. After opting for Economics, Swati dedicated an entire month just to understand the vast syllabus. She meticulously selected her study materials, streamlined her preparation approach, and laid out a clear-cut strategy.
Yet, the road to success was strewn with challenges. Swati faced the heartbreak of failure not once but twice in her initial attempts. However, instead of being disheartened, she used each setback as a stepping stone. By her third attempt, she cleared the exams but fell short of securing a rank she desired. But Swati was not one to settle. She introspected, identified her shortcomings, and came back stronger. It was this unwavering spirit that ensured her place among the top 20 candidates in her fourth attempt.
Swati Sharma’s journey serves as an inspirational saga for all UPSC aspirants. It’s a testament to the fact that with the right mix of passion, preparation, and perseverance, one can indeed turn dreams into reality.