My IBPS PO Journey: Overcoming Obstacles to Reach Success

As a graduate and a campus placement candidate, I decided to follow my dream of working in the government sector, specifically targeting the bank exams as my primary focus. This decision was not without its challenges and criticisms, but it paved the way for a journey filled with ups and downs and ultimately, success.

The Spark: fascination with SBI

My journey was ignited by a deep fascination with the brand of SBI (State Bank of India). I believe that starting with the most challenging exams can be both daunting and massively rewarding. The very first banking exam I took was SBI PO in 2020.

SBI PO 2020

I secured 56 marks, which was a close miss to the cutoff of 56.75 by just 0.75 marks. Although it was my first attempt, I took it as a learning experience. Sometimes success is just around the corner but requires a little more effort and persistence.

SBI PO 2021 - A closer call

In the 2021 SBI PO exam, I achieved 62.5 marks, which was 0.25 marks short of the 62.75 cutoff. The consecutive misses in the two exams brought about a wave of self-doubt that was hard to overcome. However, I consoled myself and started preparing again, driven by the sheer determination not to give up.

SBI PO 2022 - The final straw

Despite my renewed efforts, the 2022 SBI PO exam brought me face to face with an even closer miss. I scored 59 marks, 0.5 marks shy of the cutoff of 59.5. This time, the pressure was incredibly high, and the near-miss left me feeling utterly shattered.

Although I faced significant challenges, I am now prepared to tackle future exams, including the 2023 SBI PO exam, with renewed confidence and determination.

Exploring Other Exams

In addition to my focus on SBI, I also attempted the IBPS (Institute of Banking Personnel Selection) PO exam in 2022 and the SBI Clerk 2021 exam. These attempts were made with the sole aim of securing a spot at SBI, as I was deeply convinced that success in SBI was my ultimate goal.

IBPS PO 2022

Unfortunately, I did not clear the IBPS PO 2022 exam, but I did not let this failure dampen my spirits. My focus remained firmly on SBI, and I continued my preparation for the SBI PO 2022 exam.

SBI Clerk 2021

My experience with the SBI Clerk 2021 exam was unique. This was the first and only time I participated in any clerical exam, driven by my unwavering obsession with SBI PO. Despite the pressure, I managed to secure a position as an SBI Junior Associate. My performance in the pre and mains stages of the SBI Clerk exam can be read in my other posts.

Endurance and Perseverance

My experience with these exams showcases that success is not always immediate. It requires resilience, self-belief, and a continuous effort to stay focused on your goals. As Winston Churchill famously said, 'Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.'

Each of these exams was a stepping stone in my journey to achieve success in SBI. The near-misses and failures only strengthened my resolve to persevere. I believe that the courage to face challenges and the willingness to continue learning and improving are the keys to achieving your goals.

If I can stand up to these challenges, then so can anyone else. I urge all aspirants to remain steadfast in their pursuit of success. Keep pushing through the tough times, learn from every experience, and never give up on your dreams.

Wishing you all the best in your own IBPS PO journey.