My path to IIM Ahmedabad wasn't a straight line. It was a rollercoaster of setbacks, self-doubt, and ultimately, triumph. This is my story.
The Early Years (and Failures):
My CAT journey began in 2019, fresh out of Delhi Technological University with a Computer Science degree. Juggling work and CAT prep, I managed decent percentiles but no IIM calls. 2020 brought a pandemic, increased workload, and more near misses. While I converted IIT Bombay and Kozhikode (Finance), I chose a promising role at Goldman Sachs instead.
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Life Throws a Curveball:
I continued prepping for CAT while working at Goldman Sachs, but 2021 brought another setback – I missed the DI cut-off. Then, in 2022, my father passed away. My world shattered. I lost all motivation and put my MBA dreams on hold to support my family.
The Turning Point:
The uncertainty of the IT industry in 2023 reignited my desire for a stable career. I switched to Amazon, then Atlassian, a remote-first company that prioritized employee well-being. Atlassian's gym policy became my unexpected catalyst. While working out, I started listening to motivational content, realizing I was settling for mediocrity. I reached out to my mentor, who encouraged me to give CAT another shot. His belief in me, coupled with my father's wish to see me achieve greatness, fueled my resolve.
CAT Prep, Reimagined:
This time, I approached CAT prep with a new perspective. Knowing my weaknesses, I focused on improving my VARC skills. I printed past papers and analyzed them meticulously, focusing on the logic behind the answers. For DILR and Quant, I used notebooks similar to the CAT exam format and revisited concepts through video lectures, even if it meant marathon study sessions.
Key Takeaways from My CAT Journey:
- Mock Tests are Crucial: I aimed for 2-3 mocks weekly, focusing on detailed analysis, especially for VARC. Understanding the why behind the answers was key.
- Embrace Uncertainty: CAT's evolving pattern can be daunting. Regular mocks and varied practice helped me adapt.
- Seek Mentorship: During low moments, talking to my mentor helped me stay motivated and focused.
- Prioritize Mental Health: Take breaks, relax, and don't burn out. One week before CAT, I attended a work event and even went dancing! Staying calm is crucial.
Beyond CAT: The Interview Phase:
Post-CAT, I focused on understanding my profile inside and out. I researched my background, college, and work experience. I brushed up on undergraduate subjects and stayed updated on current affairs. I also enhanced my profile by building a strong LinkedIn presence, speaking at conferences, and engaging in social work. The IIM Ahmedabad interview was challenging, testing my understanding of concepts and my career choices. However, my preparation paid off.
Final Thoughts:
My CAT journey was long and arduous, but it taught me valuable lessons about perseverance, self-belief, and the importance of having a strong support system. My advice to aspirants:
- Dream Big, Work Hard, Stay Persistent: Follow A.P.J. Abdul Kalam's wisdom.
- Identify Your Weaknesses Early: Focus on improving them through consistent practice and analysis.
- Manage Your Time Effectively: Especially crucial for working professionals.
- Minimize Distractions: Limit social media and focus on your goals.
- Focus on becoming the best version of yourself, and success will follow.
This is my story. It's a testament to the fact that with the right mindset, perseverance, and a little bit of luck, anything is possible.
