1. Congratulations on securing a top rank in the CA Inter exam. Were you expecting this rank?
Yes. I was expecting a rank. I knew that I would score 500+ but AIR 2 is like a dream come true.
2. Can you tell us briefly about your background; about your education and family?
I belong to a typical business family. My father is in the wholesale retail grain business. Actually, I believe that my family scored the same. I was an education freak since my school days. I got 99% in class 10, 96.5% in 12th, and 367 marks in CA foundation. My family is very supportive and during the examinations when I was frustrated after 1st paper my father actually motivated me for the next papers. Although I got 99 in my first paper, due to nervousness and anxiety I couldn’t achieve my full potential in the next paper. That’s ok, I could have done better but I am very happy about my results.
3. What made you decide to go for Chartered Accountancy?
I liked business from the very beginning. I liked stock markets. I used to enjoy my father’s discussions about the market, business, etc. All these factors brought me into commerce and Chartered Accountancy. I am very proud that I have made the correct choice, I love this profession and my subjects.
4. What was your preparation strategy for the exam?
I used to study for 14 hours every day including weekends in the study centre. I was not using smartphones since my 10th. I got my phone recently 2-3 days back. I was not on any social media platform and wouldn’t be in the future except for LinkedIn. I completed my module reading 8 times. I also want to thank my teachers, Naman Sir and Pratik Sir.
5. Was there any daily study timetable that you followed during your preparation?
The class I was studying in, had a study plan that helped me to revise my modules 8 times. There was a culture of test study where there were regular tests every 2-3 days and the syllabus was covered through test syllabus. There was plenty of time for revision due to this strategy.
6. How did you cope with the exam stress and pressure that CA aspirants usually go through during their preparation?
During examinations, I experienced that confidence is far more important than preparation. Instead of studying till the last hour, I used to sit silently and listen to Hanuman Chalisa and Shree Ram Stuti in the last hour. I didn’t have lunch during exams Instead, I took fruit juices and lemonade to keep myself hydrated and create a natural sugar rush in the body. Carbs make you feel sleepy and having too much protein utilises a high amount of energy in digestion.
7. What is your opinion about the new ICAI scheme of education and training? Did you feel any difference in the CA Inter exam under the new scheme as compared to the old scheme?
I feel that the new ICAI scheme certainly is easier compared to the old one. Now there are only 6 papers. Further, there are MCQs for 30 marks. So the overall difficulty is reduced. I have not got any experience of the old scheme. The only problem in this scheme is that it has reduced 3 years’ articleship to 2 years.
8. Where do you plan to do your practical training?
I will target BIG 4s and intend to do articleship in taxation.
9. Can you tell us about your future career plans?
I am planning to do CFA after completing graduation.
10. What are your favorite pastimes? Any hobbies?
I listen to bhajans and I love playing cricket. I also like playing the keyboard.
11. What message would you like to give to CA aspirants preparing for their exams?
It’s not easy, but not impossible too. Study hard, believe in yourself, be curious, and always trust your teachers. Don’t go for too many faculties for the same subject. Just trust the one with whom you have joined first. Read modules, RTPs, MTPs, Practice manuals and that’s all.
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