It all started with the final year when the CAT word kept buzzing around. Me and my aspirations, MBA seemed the most viable option and the dream to pursue one from the hallowed institutes set in.

CAT2011 and I wasn’t really aiming to do an MBA right after my grad. I managed 99.03 and got a call from the new IIMs. After a rather dull interview, I got converts from IIM Udaipur/Kashipur. I contemplated and finally decided to opt out. I did not want to compromise with my aspirations.

I did not pursue with the core job I was placed into and worked with a startup and in parallel, applying for jobs in my area of interest – pure business I mean. I did not want to move away from the line of sight. Besides, I did prepare for the exams diligently and this time, I was faring well in my AIMCATs/CL Mocks getting into the merit list consistently.

CAT2012 and a terrible experience. A rank turner-I had to bat sensibly. I could manage only 40 Qs overall and landed up with a 98.60. Again only the new IIMs but this time I had a 98.64 in XAT with calls for BM&HRM; from XL. Besides, I got a call from IIFT(low score meant a low chance) and from SIBM and SCMHRD(although not really my aim, no offence from my side). I had a good experience in the XL-BM interview but a terrible one in HRM. Was indeed positive about the former. I got converts from SIBM and SCMHRD but again decided to opt out of it. IIFT crashlanded. XL results came and a wild shock. I was waitlisted and that too a long way from conversion. My dream just flew away from me. In the midst of this, I got a job I aspired for. I thought not to look back and marched forward.

I wanted to have a good work-ex and did not prepare for the exams as before but did manage to hold onto AIMCATs lest I lose touch. I kept managing to fare well getting into the top 200 consistently.

CAT2013 came and seemed a good one this time. Attempted 25 in QA and 28 in VA. Was expecting a good one this time,a bit skeptical about VA but nevertheless confident enough. Was in for a shocker to see 93 in both QA&VA; and a 95.32 overall. XAT-my DM went for a toss and don’t expect anything from it.

My faith in the exam keeps going down each year and I get to hear the same complaints from others and they indeed are genuine and there is a need to address. Amidst all this, I believe that I still have it in me to go for another spell and latch onto what I aspire for, what I desire. I believe I can do it and end the note happily by posting a memorable experience the next time.