I was an above average student all my academic life but not very exceptional. I sometimes ranked in the top 10 in my class. I could grasp the textbook-oriented classroom studies but I loved to read about engineering marvels in the electronics field.
I realized that with the current engineering education system biting the dust in colleges all over India, to study the latest and cutting edge technology, I needed to be in the best engineering college: Indian Institute of Technology.
The moment I set my sight on my goal, many classmates ridiculed my decision. Seeing that I was not the topper or even in the top 5 in my class, they felt I had no chances of getting through. But I did not let their comments deter my faith in myself. I was very dedicated in my efforts and I just kept reminding myself at every point that although I’m not the best, I deserve to study under the best.
As part of my preparations, I devised a schedule where I devoted 5-6 hours everyday towards my JEE preparations. I started with the basics and fundamental knowledge and waded slowly through higher concepts. Some teachers in my school helped me and I contacted some cousins who were studying in IITs and other reputed colleges. With a fierce determination and without hampering my school studies, I prepared for the JEE with a focused approach.
My message to all the students who are preparing for the JEE is that, you don’t have to be a genius to crack the JEE. Everything complex builds up on the fundamentals. Hence, have a clear understanding of your basics. Be focused, determined and do not let small failures disappoint you. Only with constant hard work can one achieve complete success. Remember, no mountain is too high to climb, no sea is too deep to swim and no exam is too tough to crack!
All the Best!
By Dharmesh Gupta