Journey Through GATE 2021: Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success

Preparing for the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) is a challenging yet rewarding experience. This article delves into the personal journey of a candidate who attempted the GATE exam twice, with a focus on the experience from the 2021 examination.

My GATE 2021 Journey

My first GATE examination in 2021 was in the morning shift, marking my second attempt. In my first attempt, I secured a rank of 2128, which prompted me to continue preparing for the subsequent year. The significant improvement in my rank from the first attempt to the second attempt—from 2128 to 820—highlights the importance of consistency and perseverance in exam preparation.

Due to the complete lockdown in 2020, accessing limited study resources posed a challenge. Approximately half of my preparation was attributed to self-study, a testament to the necessity of independent learning in preparing for such rigorous examinations. The goal remained clear and steadfast: a successful entry into the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) and continued preparation for 2022.

ESE and the Road Ahead

Focusing on the Engineering Services Examination (ESE) has always been my primary objective. I am a candidate pursuing Civil Engineering and have prepared for the 2022 ESE examination as well. For my 6th February 2021 exam, I was from a West Bengal State government engineering college. Despite the limited faculty resources, I successfully scored a moderate 463 marks in the GATE 2021 exam for Civil Engineering. With a target of achieving at least 520 marks, I am optimistic about my prospects for the COAP (Centralized Online Application Process) and CCMT (Centralized Counseling Management and Technology) counsellings.

I am confident that my score will open up opportunities for me to pursue further studies at prestigious institutions, including offbeat streams at Old IITs or New IITs, as well as core branches at NIT Durgapur, Jamshedpur, and IIEST. My journey emphasizes that determination and self-study can lead to remarkable results, even when resources are limited.

GATE MECHANICAL 2021

My first experience with the GATE Mechanical 2021 was on February 14, 2021, during the morning shift. Naturally nervous, the exam preparation journey is filled with ups and downs. On the day of the exam, I felt the pressure build up as I approached the examination center, IIT Kharagpur. The calm and supportive atmosphere inspired my confidence.

Although I reached my assigned computer an hour before the exam, starting the exam at 9:30 AM was a crucial milestone. A mix of easy questions and those I skipped initially filled the examination window. I aimed to finish known questions early and solve unknown ones later, but this strategy backfired slightly, leading to some questions left unanswered. Despite this, the exam concluded on schedule.

Instead of checking coaching answer keys, I waited for the official result. To my surprise, I secured AIR 243 with 80.09 marks, marking a disappointing outcome. Regrets and blunders during the exam, particularly in questions I knew well, further impacted my performance. Despite multiple challenges, the early announcement of results provided a boost of confidence.

Hoping for continued success, I share my experience to inspire others aiming to achieve the same goals. If you are preparing for GATE or any major engineering entrance exam, remember to stay focused and not compromise on your goals. Success often requires perseverance and a bit of luck, but most importantly, a clear and unwavering vision of your dreams. Good luck to all aspiring engineers!