Journey to the IIT: Overcoming Adversity in JEE Preparation

This is a roller coaster ride through my IIT JEE preparation journey, from the initial spark of interest to the ultimate results.

Introduction

This is going to be a long one, so sit back and enjoy the ride! IITs have always fascinated me since class 8th when my distant relative, with a son in IIT Bombay, introduced me to these elite institutions. However, my path to success was anything but smooth.

Initial Encouragement

Things started to take shape in 2020 when I scored 96 in my 10th boards with only four subjects. Suddenly, everyone around me was suggesting that I should aim for IITs, as it suited my abilities. In August 2020, I began my JEE preparation through Unacademy, but the journey wasn't easy. A month into it, I made a huge mistake and wasted a significant amount of time. When the 11th exams approached, I lost interest in IITs, deciding to focus on my boards instead.

Turning Points and Inspiration

My 11th exams went well, but the second lockdown in 2021 sparked a renewed interest in JEE preparation. I dedicated four months to a rigorous study routine, covering my 11th syllabus and ongoing 12th syllabus with determination. My aim was to secure a seat at an NIT, and I began my real JEE preparation. I started analyzing past question papers, practicing questions, and attending lectures. The board exams in February 2021 were a piece of cake for me.

First Mock Test: A Wake-Up Call

I was confident of scoring at least 160-180 in my first mock test. However, reality hit hard when I scored just 3 in physics and gave up after 20 minutes. I tried again and improved gradually, reaching a score of 98. Encouraged but skeptical, I scored just 50 in the next mock test, leading to deep disappointment. A senior advised me to not give up, and I focused on overcoming my fears. Thanks to some divine help, the exam was postponed, and I scored 93 in my board exams. From there on, I tackled each day with renewed determination, scoring around 130-150 in June mocks.

The Big Day

The IIT JEE exam day was stressful. I went a day early and stayed with a relative before the exam. I attempted the exam with a strategy of chemistry, then physics, and then mathematics. Although I struggled with mathematics, my overall performance was better than expected. I was initially worried but my relatives supported me, and I tried to move forward.

Results and Reflections

Awaiting results for a long time, I received a call the morning they were declared. My friend told me that I secured 97.46! The news was overwhelming, and I shared it with him on the phone. Overwhelmed with joy and relief, I knew that my hard work had paid off. I still didn't care about achieving the top percentile; I just celebrated my success and promised to pursue a successful engineering career.

Conclusion

My journey to the IIT has taught me that perseverance and hard work lead to success. While my 2nd attempt was less successful, I am content with my achievements and excited about the future.

Thanks for reading.