Having completed her school education in Haryana, Ankita moved to Delhi to pursue her graduation studies. She completed her BSc in Chemistry from Hindu College, University Delhi. 

Appearing for the UPSC exams had been her long-cherished dream and so she started preparations for the same during her master’s programme. Her excellent academic results helped her get admission to one of the prestigious universities of India, IIT Delhi. 

Failed in the first attempt

Ankita mentions that her father has been a constant figure of motivation in her life. He has helped her realize and fulfil her dreams. During her Masters, Ankita had worked extremely hard for the UPSC exams but could not attain passing marks. 

Ankita received an emotional setback with the demise of her mother. She was left heartbroken, but her family supported her to continue with her preparations. 

14th rank in the 2018 UPSC exams

Ankita made her entire family proud when in her second attempt she secured 14th all-India rank in the exams in UPSC examinations. Her entire family, distant relatives and neighbours gathered to celebrate her huge achievement with her. Drums were beaten, sweets were distributed, and garlands were exchanged for Ankita’s great success.

Advice for other students

Ankita shares that it is important to stay connected with your studies every day. When preparing for the civil services exam, students cannot afford to have a day’s break. 

They must strive to learn something new each day and practice a habit of constant learning. She further motivates students by stating that students must not fear failures, they are part of life. And the sweet taste of success becomes even sweeter when one has had the sour taste of failure. 

Learning from mistakes is hugely important in moving forward with educational strategies. Ankita believes that students must understand their weak points to work on them.