From Disastrous Start to NEET Success: My Journey in Kota

Every aspiring student's academic journey is unique, and mine was no exception. I was a neet aspirant, taking my third attempt at the NEET exam (EARLIER DATE) in 2024. This journey from despair to victory began in Kota, a city renowned for NEET preparation and famously known as the "Allen Career Institute."

Disastrous First Attempt

My initial foray into NEET preparation was a disaster. My first attempt, taken before 2024, was with an online coaching platform named PWonline, and the results were far below my expectations. Despite my intention to move on, I accepted a second chance suggested by my family.

Allen Career Institute: A Recommendation and Deadline

Encouraged by the recommendation of an Allen teacher, my father decided that the best choice for me was to join the Allen Career Institute in Kota. However, a school teacher had voiced the city's relentless rigor to me, creating a lingering impression. Personal opinions of friends about the place ranged widely, leading me to finally make the decision to enroll mid-July 2023. My hostel was conveniently located near Allen Satyarth, offering an ideal transition from home.

First Month in Kota: The Elusive Enthusiasm

The first month in Kota initiated with great enthusiasm, driven by reflections on past failures. I dedicated nearly five hours daily to studies. The hostel canteens, initially impressive, started to lose their shine as the intake of new students began to taper off. My first minor result confirmed a silver lining, earning me a 552 score - my best until the end.

Daily Struggles and Mental Health

Gradually, the monotony of daily routines exacerbated my performance, leading to a drop to 467 in the subsequent minor test. The grueling schedule of waking at 6:30, attending classes until 12:45, then attending more from 2:00 to 8:15, and finally sleeping around midnight or later, seemed manageable at first. However, over time, the psychological toll mounted. Failure in examinations, parental expectations, and societal pressures contributed to a real Kota Trauma.

Tensions grew as regular classes, testing schedules, and the intense pressure to perform well culminated in self-doubt, low confidence, and occasionally, even depression. The dorm life itself wasn't a walk in the park. Self-reflections and thoughts became a daily ritual, often marked by despair and anxiety, making even the small joys of life seem insurmountable.

The Harsh Reality and Tragic Truths

The reality of Kota's pressure starkly emerged during a personal experience. Early mornings, classes, and constant studying finally led to a late-night struggle. This became a recurring pattern, and the combination of stress, pressure, and exhaustion loomed large. It was in this environment that many students face a struggle that ultimately led to tragic outcomes. Indeed, the 2024 Kota suicide count reached alarming levels, highlighting the severity of the issue.

Preparing for the NEET Exam

In March, I completed regular classes and focused on major test series, studying up to 11-13 hours daily. Physics and Physical Chemistry were particular challenges, as I struggled to grasp the concepts. During the final week before NEET2024, I left the institute, having prepared as much as possible. I took the exam on May 5, 2024, with an NEET score of 485.

Every experience in Kota is unique – some find it cherished, while others prefer not to relive it. Yet, it's a journey that profoundly shapes each student's life in ways both profound and often painful.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading through these reflections. May they serve to provide insight into the profound experience of NEET preparation in Kota through the lens of one aspirant's journey.