Let me explain everything at the outset. I was born in a rural area, where quality education, and good mentorship, were almost inaccessible. However, I managed to get the first position in my class. Till class 8, I had no vision about my career, even though a little aspiration existed in that regard. It is ironical to write, that I wanted to be a scientist in America. In my dreams, I used to see myself in white jackets, holding laboratory materials. However, in class 9th, the entire scenario changed.
I got the best teachers ever to guide me. They were Mr Damodar Mishra and Mr Nabakishore Satapathy. They understood my family background. Thank God, they granted me a waiver in tuition fees. At that time, I nurtured a big dream. Yes! I wanted to be an IITian! I devoted all my energy to Mathematics and Physics and Chemistry. I was always afraid of Social Sciences.
Due to my hard work, I scored well in my 10th board exam. Now, I was certain that I would study Science. But unfortunately, my father declared that he couldn’t afford the tuition fees. So, I joined an Arts and Humanities college. This frustrated me because my IIT dream died. But, on the day of my admission in 11th class, something motivated me. I was the topper of my stream. So, seeing my mark sheet, one of the teachers told me,” 532/600. Wow, that is an amazing score. And you have scored a 100/100 in mathematics. Good. You are the pride of Arts stream.”
Then, my frustrations waned away. I was motivated. I studied hard. It was first Mr Dasarathi Moharana, who recognised my inner talent, motivated me to study hard, provided me with the materials, etc. I will always be indebted to him. Then comes Dr Prafulla Kumar Rana. He, himself, was an example. And that was sufficient to motivate me. After listening to his struggle and history, I was astonished.
Well, I didn’t take coaching, studied hard, and became the district topper. I got the 21st rank in my state in Humanities. I missed the top 20 by just one mark! Now, my IIT dream has completely vanished. Instead, I am moving to something greater. I am preparing for the Civil Services. I don’t know whether I can clear it or not. But I am sure, I will learn new things from this journey.
Thanks for reading.
*Feature image is for representational purposes only.