Bhubaneswar: Candidates aspiring to clear the Union Public Service exams should keep their patience and determination bold, as this all-India examination involves a long process. Not everyone clears it on the first attempt, so focus is a must, said Kasturi Panda, All India Rank – 67, UPSC Examinations, 2022.
In an era of information explosion, retain only the important things in mind filtering out information instead of noise. Chose your resources wisely and focus on quality over quantity, she said, in a message to UPSC aspirants.
“My preparation journey was very long but it started right after I graduated as BTech in Computer Science from NIT Rourkela,” said Kasturi, in an exclusive interview with Ommcom News.
“I had difficulty with choosing my subject and finally zeroed in on Sociology on my first attempt. It was quite long, during the COVID-19 pandemic,” she added.
She missed the first attempt by barely 10 to 11 marks which was really disappointing for Kasturi, who believed that she could clear it that time.
She had even decided not to go for the UPSC exams anymore. But mustering all courage and with the support of her well-wishers, Kasturi nailed it in her second attempt.
“I am thankful to everyone, especially my parents, my family, and my close friends, who supported and encouraged me always,” said Kasturi, whose father is also an administrative officer.
Kasturi’s father, Sarada Prasad Panda works with the State Government as a Joint Secretary in the Urban Development Department. He is also the Director of State Urban Development Agency (SUDA).