A year ago, after my first CAT attempt and a 95.45 percentile, I stood at a crossroads many MBA aspirants would consider enviable — with admission offers from multiple IIMs, including Vishakhapatnam, Amritsar, Sirmaur, and Jammu. But instead of taking the leap, I paused.
It wasn’t hesitation. It was conviction.
I knew I hadn’t yet unlocked my full potential. Settling then would’ve meant ignoring that quiet inner voice that said, “You can aim higher.” And for me, an MBA was never about collecting another degree — it was about clarity, direction, and choosing a B-school that truly resonated with my aspirations.
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Letting go of confirmed admits was one of the boldest decisions I’ve made. I chose uncertainty over comfort — but this time, with sharper intent.
At the same time, I was into my career in infrastructure consulting with over 2 years of experience — a demanding role that required both technical depth and mental stamina. Balancing long workdays with preparation was far from easy. Some days I managed two hours of study, other days just ten minutes — but I showed up, almost every single day. It became a discipline, not a mood.
In CAT 2024, I scored 97.38 percentile.
That number wasn’t just a score — it was every early morning I chose revision over rest, every plan I said no to, and every moment I battled self-doubt and kept going anyway. Thanks to my work experience hitting the ideal sweet spot, I received calls from almost all the top B-schools in the country.
But the real challenge began after CAT — the interview season. This phase felt even more competitive. Unlike CAT, here I could see my competition sitting beside me, just as driven, just as prepared. It triggered waves of self-doubt — about my personality, my answers, my chances. But instead of shrinking under that pressure, I doubled down. I promised myself I’d bring the best version of me into every single room.
And that persistence paid off.
I ended up converting all my interview calls — including IIM Lucknow, FMS Delhi, IIM Mumbai, SJMSOM IIT Bombay, IIFT Delhi, MDI Gurgaon, IIM Udaipur, IIM Raipur, and several other new-generation IIMs.
When the final admits came in, it felt like more than a destination. It was validation — of every bold choice, every lonely hour, every time I bet on myself when it would’ve been easier not to.
I’ve chosen to join IIM Lucknow, and I carry into this next chapter not just excitement, but also immense gratitude — for the struggle, the discipline, and the people who supported me along the way.
To anyone standing at their own crossroads:
“Trust your inner voice — even when it whispers.”
The path may not look like anyone else’s. That’s your strength. Own your story, stay consistent, and let your efforts speak louder than your doubts.
