Ahana Shrishti is a Delhi-based economist. She secured rank 3 in the Indian Economic Service (IES) exam conducted by the UPSC. She shared her story and preparation in a LinkedIn post which went viral.
Shrishti writes, “Clearing the Indian Economic Service Examination (2024) with an All India Rank 3 was truly and wholly beyond my dreams.” She emphasised having a backup plan and how it helped her stay stress-free through the tough journey of preparation. Initially, she appeared to simply test her understanding of the subject and if she failed she also considered doing a PhD. She constantly emphasizes having a plan B because in case of failure and uncertainty having a backup helps to stay calm and keep working in a structured manner. Having failed the Civil Services exam of 2022, and not being able to appear for the next phase in 2023 she was forced to leave her dream and continue with the master’s degree. But her determination and hard work had better plans.
Shrishti’s post signified the importance of consistency, plan B, and family support and her story is not an exception to any candidate preparing for a competitive exam. In the LinkedIn post, she also mentioned the role of her mother and her friends who made this feat possible for her. Quoting the famous saying, “God helps those who help themselves.” she summed up her journey in the inspiring post.
We also see her interview glimpses via the post and her first day at the IES training centre, Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management.
Many users on social media congratulated her after the post went viral. One user said, “Congratulations on this incredible achievement! Securing an All India Rank 3 in the Indian Economic Service Examination is no small feat and is a testament to your dedication and hard work. Your journey and insights are truly inspiring, especially the emphasis on having a Plan B, which can significantly reduce the pressure and anxiety associated with such competitive exams.” Shrishti has completed her degree from Indraprastha College for Women in Delhi and has a master’s degree in economics from IIFT.
Currently, she is working as a probationary officer under the Indian Economics Service and her practical approach synced with many who came forward and shared their stories while wishing her luck for the future.
