The journey towards joining the armed forces, especially for those inspired by family legacies, can be both rewarding and challenging. From an early age, the call of duty and the desire to serve one’s country often stem from profound personal experiences and stories passed down through generations. For many, like this aspirant, the journey is fueled by vivid memories of family members in uniform and the tales of bravery that accompany them.
The aspirations began with the National Defence Academy (NDA) exams in 2019. However, navigating the route to success is rarely straightforward, and setbacks often shape the path ahead. Failure to clear the NDA exam, attributed to difficulties in mathematics, didn’t deter this individual. Instead, a pivot was made towards pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology at Delhi University, all while steadfastly preparing for the armed forces. Valuable experiences were gained through participation in the National Cadet Corps (NCC), laying a foundation of discipline and team spirit.
The focus then shifted towards other pathways into the armed forces, specifically the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE) and the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT). The first significant milestone was receiving a call for an SSB (Services Selection Board) interview through an NCC entry in 2022. Although the experience was marred by an early screen-out, it served as a learning opportunity rather than a conclusive failure.
Encounters with multiple SSBs accumulated over time, revealing a challenging journey characterized by screen-outs and conference-outs. Each setback was a lesson in resilience, with the “never give up” mantra emerging as a rallying cry. Seeking guidance from seasoned coaching academies and various mentors, the aspirant realized that mere preparation was insufficient—introspection and genuine self-improvement were crucial components for success.
Throughout this journey, critical areas of personal development were identified. These included:
- Time Management during psychological tests, ensuring every second counts.
- Confidence in responses, showcasing assertiveness and clarity.
- Maintaining cheerfulness, which influences how one is perceived during evaluations.
- Performance in Group Task Officer (GTO) activities, emphasizing teamwork and composure.
Extensive practice was undertaken; engaging in reflective activities such as speaking in front of mirrors, recording and analyzing personal lectures, and constantly seeking constructive feedback became part of the routine.
Before the 11th attempt, after experiencing two more consecutive screen-outs, the aspirant maintained determination and focus. Persistently waiting for the next opportunity, when the moment arrived, it led to a transformative approach. With a shift in mindset, the focus was on performing with openness and without fear of the outcome. This culminated in success, resulting in a recommendation from the same SSB where the journey had begun years earlier.
Interestingly, despite not clearing the written exams, the aspirant emphasized the importance of focusing on SSB preparation. It’s in the personal assessments and evaluations, rather than the written processes, where character and commitment are truly tested.
Reflecting on the journey spanning six years and eleven attempts, the aspirant acknowledges the invaluable experiences gained and the friendships formed along the way. The mantra that genuine effort yields results becomes evident. Consistency proves to be the bedrock for achieving long-term goals.
A heartfelt appreciation is extended to supportive individuals along this strenuous journey: peer mentors, family members, and platforms that provided encouragement. With an upcoming transition to the Officer Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, this chapter is set to begin anew, promising further growth and service to the nation.
