IFS Arushi Mishra’s Journey of Resilience: A Saga of UPSC and IFS Glory

February 26, 2024

4 Minutes

IFS Arushi Mishra (Picture: News18)

Introduction

In the heart of Uttar Pradesh’s Raebareli district, Arushi Mishra embarked on a journey that would inspire many. A bright student from the beginning, Arushi’s academic journey led her from local schooling to the prestigious halls of IIT Roorkee, thanks to her exceptional performance in the entrance exams. This achievement not only added the label of ‘smart’ to her name but also set high expectations for her future endeavors. 

UPSC: A Dream Takes Flight

With aspirations as vast as the skies, Arushi set her sights on the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exams, a decision fueled by her dreams and societal expectations. Believing in the power of dedication, she joined a coaching institute, armed with study materials and the determination to succeed. However, the path to her dreams was far from straightforward. The first attempt at the UPSC exams was a reality check for Arushi, teaching her the harsh lesson that success often requires more than just dreams and hard work.

Learning Through Failure

Undeterred by the setback, Arushi’s goal to crack UPSC exams only grew stronger. She realized the importance of understanding the exam pattern and the need for a comprehensive study plan. Her second attempt brought her closer to her goal, clearing the prelims with impressive marks. However, the Mains exam proved to be another hurdle, revealing gaps in her preparation and approach.

The third attempt was a testament to her perseverance. With sociology as her optional subject and a refined strategy that included rigorous answer-writing practice and meticulous note-making, she felt confident about her chances. Yet, the unpredictable nature of the UPSC exams once again led to disappointment.

Broadening Horizons

This phase of continuous attempts and setbacks did not dampen her spirit. Instead, it broadened her perspective on civil services. The lesson was clear: success in UPSC demanded more than just hard work; it required strategic preparation and a deep understanding of the exam’s demands. She appeared for various state-level civil services exams, including the UPPCS, MPPCS, and RajasthanPCS, showcasing her determination to serve in the government sector. Her efforts also saw her clearing prelims for competitive exams like the RBI and Bank PO, although the final success remained difficult to crack.

Breakthrough and Success

Arushi’s journey took a significant turn during her fourth attempt at the UPSC exams. As she prepared for her fourth UPSC attempt, Arushi’s strategy was one of meticulous revision, concise note-taking, and exhaustive practice through 60 test papers. Her dedication was such that she spent around 18 hours a day studying, leaving no stone unturned in her quest for success. Despite her confidence, the UPSC exam remained just beyond reach. Despite her confidence, the UPSC exam once again proved challenging, and she could not secure a rank. 

However, fate had a different plan. Her resilience and hard work paid off when she cleared the Indian Forest Service exam with an All India Rank of 2. This achievement was a monumental confidence boost and marked the beginning of her successful career in the Indian Forest Service. The journey did not end there. Arushi was also selected as DSP in the UPPS exam and later cleared the UPSC mains, securing a rank that allotted her to the Indian Revenue Service. This series of successes was not just a testament to her intelligence but also to her unwavering perseverance and ability to learn from failures. Today she serves as an Indian Forest Service officer.

Lessons from Arushi’s Journey

Arushi Mishra’s story is a powerful narrative of resilience, hard work, and the importance of learning from setbacks. Her journey from a hopeful IIT aspirant to a respected officer in the Indian Forest Service is a reminder that success often comes to those who are willing to persist, adapt, and overcome challenges. Her experience underscores the significance of a well-rounded preparation strategy, the importance of self-belief, and the value of embracing failure as a step toward achieving one’s dreams. Her story is not just about clearing one of the toughest exams in India; it is about the spirit of never giving up, of pushing boundaries, and of realizing one’s potential through perseverance.

In conclusion, Arushi Mishra’s journey to success is an inspiring tale for all aspiring civil servants. It teaches us that while the path to achieving our dreams may be fraught with challenges, it is our response to these challenges that ultimately defines our success.

Also read: The Power of Persistence: Abhijeet Sirohi’s Triumph in Civil Services