Pujya Priyadarshini’s journey to becoming an IAS officer is a compelling story of resilience, relentless pursuit, and the power of familial support in the face of adversity.
IAS Topper Pujya Priyadarshini’s Arduous UPSC Journey
For Pujya Priyadarshini, the road to becoming a revered IAS topper was laden with obstacles. Facing the bitter pill of failure not once but thrice in the UPSC exams, the challenges seemed to mount with each attempt.
Braving the Odds with Family’s Support
At a point where the culmination of her efforts seemed to beckon her to surrender, it was the unwavering support from her family that reignited Pujya’s determination. Encouraged by her loved ones, she resolved to face the UPSC battleground once more, and this resilience led to the turning of tides in her favor.
Academic Foundation and International Exposure
Priyadarshini’s academic prowess was evident early on with a B.Com degree from Delhi. Her quest for knowledge propelled her across oceans to New York, where she obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the esteemed Columbia University.
Professional Experience Amidst Preparation
Post-graduation, Pujya didn’t immediately dive into the civil services preparation. Instead, she gained valuable professional experience by joining a company for two years, during which she continued to rigorously prepare for the UPSC examination.
The Initial Setbacks
Her first foray into the UPSC exams was in 2013, an endeavor that did not bear fruit. Unperturbed, Pujya took a three-year hiatus to refine her preparation strategy, returning to the fray in 2016 with renewed vigor.
Perseverance in the Face of Disappointment
The 2016 attempt marked a significant improvement as she advanced to the interview stage, yet the final list did not feature her name. Rather than wallowing in disappointment, Pujya viewed this as a learning curve, setting the stage for another attempt.
Overcoming the Trough of Despondency
Her resolve was truly tested when, after coming tantalizingly close to success, she stumbled in the preliminary round the following year. It was a devastating blow that nearly ended her UPSC aspirations. Yet, in these trying times, her family stepped in as the bedrock of support, convincing her to muster her strength for one more attempt.
Armed with an improved strategy and driven by the support and faith of her family, Pujya Priyadarshini approached the UPSC exam with a level of preparation and determination that was destined for success. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but also serves as a testament to the importance of a support system in achieving one’s dreams, no matter the scale of the challenge.