Dr Renu Raj’s tips for civil service aspirants

Dr Renu Raj’s valuable advice for civil service aspirants

Devikulam Sub-Collector Dr Renu Raj IAS loves a simple life, but takes powerful decisions which keep her in the spotlight. Renu cleared the civil service examinations with second rank after completing her MBBS course.

With the date for this year’s civil service preliminary exam being announced, Dr Renu offers valuable advice to aspiring candidates, in this interview.

According to many successful candidates, they had started the preparations for the civil service exams years earlier. Is there no chance for those who have not done so?

It is not really necessary to start preparations from an early age. However, once a decision has been taken to make an attempt, there should be no laxity on part of the candidate.

In my case, I first learnt about even the pattern of the exams only while doing my internship after MBBS. That was the time I started reading newspapers and magazines seriously. Alongside, I started studying thoroughly on the basis of the syllabus.

Could you give us an idea about your preparations for the exam?

My studies lasted 7-8 hours every day. After the Main exam, the time came down to 3-4 hours. More than the number of hours spent, it is how that time is utilized that matters.

After the Mains exams, I practised for some time as a doctor. I read newspapers while travelling to my workplace and also started preparing for the interview.

What advice can you give regarding the selection of optional papers? Especially because in your case, the optional paper was Malayalam.

The optional paper could be the subject you studied at the degree level or some other topic that you love. If the subject you studied for the degree is chosen, you will have a strong base. On the other hand, if a subject dear to you is selected, the studies will be interesting. But preferring the choice of the heart to that of the head is a risky affair. Still, there is nothing wrong in taking that risk if you have the confidence.

How should a candidate prepare for the interview?

While the Preliminary and Mains exams test your knowledge, the interview is aimed at learning about you. A civil service aspirant should have a good idea of current affairs. He or she has to take a stand on various issues and present it in a pleasing manner. For this, mock interviews would help. Be honest during the interview and never try to act smart by concealing your ignorance.

Why choose civil service when there are several other careers that are more remunerative? Aren’t stress and controversies inevitable in the life of a civil service officer?

All candidates need to understand that civil service is not a job that provides you with a fat pay cheque and an air-conditioned office. There could be setbacks and conflict while carrying out your duty.

However, above all such issues, civil service offers innumerable opportunities for an officer. Even if a task completed most efficiently goes unnoticed, the pleasure it gives to the officer would be immeasurable.

In other words, you can do many things as a civil service officer.

A youngster can boldly venture into civil service if he or she earnestly wants to do something good for society or wants to bring about change in certain matters or does not consider the career as a means to earn money.

Dr Renu Raj’s tips

1) It may take some time for getting on to the ‘track’ for the exams. Initially, progress in studies may be very slow. However, never feel disheartened.

2) Identify the method of study most suitable for you.

3) The strong and weak subjects for each candidate will be known best to that candidate only. Prepare for the exam based on this knowledge. Never try to deceive yourself.

4) The most crucial aspect of the preparations is – Practise, practise and practise. Also, take part in mock tests and mock interviews regularly.

5) Each candidate needs to have a clear goal in life. Self-motivation is also important, along with maintaining a positive attitude.

In case you fail to clear the interview

The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has placed a notable suggestion before the Central Government this time. It says candidates unable to clear the interview after passing the Mains could be considered for other services, instead of being ignored altogether.

If this path-breaking proposal is accepted, many candidates who lose the civil service between the cup and the lip can still hope to lead a career in other services.

To apply for the civil service exam, visit the website, upsc.gov.in

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