Job or IAS Preparation: A Personal Journey and Advice for Aspirants

As I reflect on my own journey, I believe I can offer some valuable insights on the question of whether to pursue a job or prepare for the IAS (Indian Administrative Services) exam. After graduating in 2011, I was faced with a significant decision: to either join a multinational corporation (MNC) or embark on the path of civil services, which seemed to be a long and arduous journey.

My Background and Decision

I graduated in 2011 and strongly considered joining the civil services during my final year of engineering. However, I also received a job offer from an MNC. With limited knowledge about the preparation process, I quickly accepted the offer and joined the company in July 2011. Despite this, my desire to pursue the IAS remained strong, and I decided to take the plunge in September 2012 by submitting my application.

Coaching and Preparation

The coaching I received was exceptional. It was during this time that I realized the importance of understanding various aspects of life. I was fortunate to find a community of hard-working individuals who inspired me to excel. Despite my initial difficulty in clearing the preliminary exams in 2013, I persisted and successfully wrote the Mains exam in 2014.

Due to various other commitments, I decided to pursue a backup plan in 2015 by joining a PSU bank through the IBPS PO exam. However, I was determined to return to my initial passion and planned to take the IAS exam again in 2018.

Reflection and Advice

When it comes to deciding whether to join a job or prepare for the IAS, consider the following factors:

Join a Job if:

You are sure about the domain of work you will be engaged in and have the necessary expertise. You are part of a lower-middle-class family, and your parents have sacrificed much for your education. In such cases, it might be wise to support them first and then consider your civil service aspirations. The work domain is niche and offers unique opportunities that align with your skills and interests.

Join the IAS if Possible

If you are financially secure, you may prioritize your preparations without any immediate obligations. During the initial year in the company, engage in training and use this time to prepare for the civil services without wasting any holiday or public day. After attempting the exam and reviewing the results, you can make an informed decision for the next year.

Getting the job is a strategic choice that can provide financial stability and societal respect. However, it is essential to ensure that you remain motivated and committed to your aspirations. If joining a job seems like the right path for you, make plans to enter the MNC market late and use your time effectively to balance both aspects of your life.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your long-term goals and ensures a fulfilling and balanced life.