Cracking GATE for an MTech from IIT: My Personal Journey

Back in 1994, I embarked on a rewarding and challenging journey. After completing my engineering degree from MNIT Jaipur in Metallurgical Engineering, I faced a significant setback. Our graduation was initially scheduled for late 1993, but due to unforeseen circumstances, we were delayed by six months until early 1995. By this time, with just 16 days left to prepare for the coveted GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) exam, I realized the enormity of the task at hand.

Intense Preparation in Hostel

Despite the limited time, I found an internal driving force to surge through the process. The hostel became my fortress of preparation, and every hour was meticulously utilized. For a full 15 days, I immersed myself in my studies without any distractions. This intense focus helped me to maximize my learning potential in a highly compressed timeline.

Preparation Strategy and Time Management

For the GATE exam, I made use of the prescribed books that were recommended by our professors. I carefully studied these books, breaking them down into manageable sections to cover the entire syllabus within the confined time frame. My strategy involved both rote learning and a deeper understanding of the concepts.

Exam Day and Results

After my fervent preparation, the day of the GATE exam finally arrived. I walked into the exam hall with a mix of anticipation and nerves. Despite the stress, I managed to give my best shot and completed the exam. The results were even better than I could have imagined – I secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 1, placing me in a leading position among millions of aspirants. No coaching institutes were a part of my journey, highlighting the significant role of self-discipline and focused preparation.

Lessons Learned and Inspiration

Reflecting on this experience, I've drawn several valuable lessons. First and foremost, effective time management is crucial when you hit a tight time limit. Secondly, dedication to the subject matter, coupled with a clear preparation strategy, can yield excellent results, even with limited resources. Lastly, the realization that success often stems from within, without the need for external support, can be a powerful motivator for both students and professionals.

Conclusion

In essence, my experience with GATE preparation and securing an MTech from IIT was a testament to perseverance and self-motivation. If you find yourself in a similar situation, I would highly recommend a disciplined approach coupled with the right preparation techniques to achieve your goals.