Pujya Priyadarshini, an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, has become a symbol of resilience and determination in the face of adversity, having overcome multiple setbacks in her pursuit of success in the UPSC exams. Her story is a testament to the belief that every triumph is preceded by challenges and setbacks.
A Tale of Perseverance
Priyadarshini’s journey began with dreams of becoming an IAS officer, a goal that initially seemed elusive. Despite facing failures in her UPSC attempts, she persisted, fueled by an unwavering determination to turn her dream into reality.
After completing her B.Com in Delhi, she pursued a post-graduation in Public Administration from Columbia University in New York, all the while managing work commitments and preparing diligently for the UPSC exams. The disappointments in 2013 and 2016 failed to deter her, and even in 2017, when she narrowly missed success in the preliminary examination, she contemplated quitting.
![](https://i0.wp.com/pune.news/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Indian-Foreign-Service-IFS-officer-Pujya-Priyadarshini.webp?resize=1200%2C633&ssl=1)
Family Support Reignites Determination
It was the relentless support from her family that proved to be the turning point in Priyadarshini’s journey. Encouraged by their unwavering belief in her abilities, she decided to make one final attempt. In 2018, her persistence bore fruit when she secured an impressive All India Rank 11 in the UPSC exam, realizing her dream of becoming an IAS officer.
Valuable Lessons and Advice
Reflecting on her journey, Priyadarshini offers sage advice to aspiring candidates. She underscores the significance of hard work, patience, and resilience in the face of failure. Her message resonates with the belief that setbacks should be viewed as stepping stones to growth. Priyadarshini’s story serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to persevere through challenges on the path to success.