It all started with my initial career plans. I had decided during my school days that I wanted to build my career in IT field, as I was highly interested in and wanted to explore the field. Following that, I did my B.Tech in IT and after graduating, was happy joining my first organisation, Tata Consultancy Services. The profile I got in my organization, included quite a bit of management related work and communicating with clients on a day to day basis. I started understanding how business works and started gaining experience in maintaining customer relationships. I also got myself involved into client billing process, to understand the business aspect in a better way. On the other hand,
I wanted to pursue master’s degree. To be specific, I wanted to pursue M. Tech and was simultaneously preparing for it. I attempted GATE thrice but failed every time. I was always hesitant to go for the idea of MBA, as I felt it was an expensive affair and was worried to take up a heavy loan.
When I completed 3 years of working, after such failures and gathering up courage, I decided to give an attempt for CAT 2019. It was a tough decision to make, but I thought I should give it a try, as I had already developed an interest in management. Regarding the heavy loan part, I convinced myself that it is worth it if I get selected into one of the top institutes, which will help to shape my future in the best possible way. I had only four months when I took this decision and knew that this was my last and only chance to my dream of a master's degree, as well as to take my career towards my new domain of interest. Somewhere I felt this won't be possible in such a short time.
Nevertheless, I started preparing for CAT. I planned out my time. I did no outings, no parties, mock tests every weekend followed by its analysis. I completed my office work before time and always tried going to the office library for studying. It was tough saying no to friends for gatherings, but this was the least I could do to manage my time. I promised to myself, I would give the best I can. These four months were the most restless days of my life till date. Thankfully, my basics were a bit strong, which helped me to grasp concepts quicker. I sacrificed everything and covered as much as I could, and attempted CAT.
I'll always remember 24th Nov, 2019. I got nervous seeing the crowd at the examination centre, as I was used to mock tests only from home. I solved
as many questions as possible. Sadly, I performed below my expectations, couldn’t attempt the number of questions I had targeted. I cried my heart out that day after the exam, as I could have performed much better. Nevertheless, I controlled my emotions, and started preparing for the other entrance exams. CAT declared results on 4th Jan, 2020. It was a mixed feeling, it wasn't that good, as expected, but good enough to fetch a few calls from some of the top prestigious institutions.
I started getting calls and shortlist mails from some IIMs. I also remember the day I got my first shortlist mail, which was from IIM Rohtak. My happiness had no bounds. Then came the most crucial part of the selection process, the WAT PI process. I started to read more than ever before. I started reading newspapers, magazines and everything I got. I also watched a lot of insightful pvideos online. I gained much confidence, and practiced for the process, and finally all my WAT PI process went smoother than I could ever think of. With time, the final selection lists also got released. I feel fortunate to have been offered admission in 10 IIMs and also some of the premier non IIMs. Out of all the offers I received, I chose IIM Raipur. Appearing for CAT 2019 was a last moment
decision for me, however I never expected that it could become the turning point of my life. When I look back on my journey, I feel that it wasn't an easy one, it was a journey of efforts, perseverance and never losing hope.
In short, I would like to say to the viewers of this post that nothing is impossible if you are determined. Grab every opportunity that you get in life, you never know whats waiting for you at the end of the journey.