Exclusive Interview with JEE Advanced 2024 Topper: Rajdeep Mishra (AIR 6)

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JEE Advanced 2024 Topper Interview with Rajdeep Mishra (AIR 6)

Question 1. Congratulations on your outstanding achievement, Rajdeep! Can you walk us through a typical day in your study routine during your JEE preparation?

Rajdeep Mishra: I believe it’s more important to focus on balanced preparation rather than strictly equal preparation. Instead of allocating the same amount of time to each subject, I recommend putting equal effort into all subjects. Often, we have a natural inclination or proficiency in certain subjects, making them easier to grasp. Therefore, it’s crucial to dedicate more time and energy to the subjects where you need more improvement. This approach helps ensure that you strengthen your weaker areas while maintaining your strengths.

Question 2: What is the significance of national or international level exams like olympiads for students?

Answer: Participating in national or international exams such as olympiads extends beyond the scope of school or coaching center assessments. It allows students to gauge their performance against a broader pool of competitors, providing insight into their standing on national or international standards. These exams serve as a means to identify and address weaknesses in preparation, transcending the limitations of traditional school or coaching exams.

Question 3: Which olympiads did you participate in and during which years?

Answer: I participated in several olympiads during my academic journey. In 9th grade, I attended the International Junior Science Olympiad both in 2021 and 2022, with the latter held in Columbia. Subsequently, in 2023, I took part in the International Olympiad in Astronomy & Astrophysics, hosted in Poland. Additionally, I engaged in online competitions like Physics Brawl, a team-based event, and secured a silver medal in physics at the International Zhautykov Olympiad.

Question 4: Is it essential for students to prioritize studies over hobbies, or should they also allocate time for leisure activities?

Answer: Balancing studies with hobbies is crucial for maintaining mental freshness and overall well-being. Personally, I’ve found that taking short breaks from studying to engage in sports or hobbies revitalizes my mind, preparing me for subsequent study sessions. For instance, after studying for a couple of hours, I typically take a 15 to 20-minute break to solve the Rubik’s cube, read a book, or enjoy a web series. Additionally, I prioritize nurturing my existing hobbies and even dedicate time to improving my typing speed. This approach helps me stay energized and focused when returning to my academic tasks.

Question 5. What role did your parents and educators play in your journey, and how did their support influence your preparation strategy?

My parents and educators were my pillars of support. Their unwavering belief in me and constant encouragement kept me motivated. My parents provided a stress-free environment and ensured I had all the resources I needed. My coaching tutors were always available to clear doubts and provided invaluable guidance. This support system helped me stay focused and disciplined, and it reassured me during tough times, which was crucial for maintaining my confidence.

Question 6. Starting early and staying consistent are often mentioned as keys to success. How did you ensure that you maintained consistency throughout your preparation?

Starting early allowed me to build a strong foundation without the pressure of time. I created a detailed study plan with daily, weekly, and monthly goals. Consistency was maintained by sticking to this plan and regularly assessing my progress. I also incorporated short breaks and leisure activities to avoid burnout. Setting small, achievable milestones kept me motivated and helped maintain a steady pace.

Question 7. Many students struggle with stress and burnout during intense preparation periods. How did you manage your mental health and stay motivated?

To prevent stress-related mistakes, prioritize focusing on the exam questions rather than its impact on your life. If errors occur, don’t dwell on them; instead, note them down and rectify them before the next test. Reviewing these mistakes before subsequent exams helps in identifying and addressing recurring errors efficiently.

Question 8. You emphasized the importance of understanding concepts over rote learning. Can you share some techniques or methods you used to deepen your conceptual understanding?

To deepen my understanding, I focused on the “why” behind every concept. I used visual aids like diagrams and flowcharts to grasp complex topics. Teaching the concepts to my peers was another effective method, as it reinforced my knowledge and highlighted any gaps. I also solved a variety of problems to apply the concepts in different scenarios, which solidified my understanding.

Question 9. What resources (books, online courses, coaching classes) did you find most valuable during your JEE preparation, and why?

The standard textbooks like H.C. Verma for Physics, R.D. Sharma for Mathematics, and O.P. Tandon for Chemistry were my primary resources. I also enrolled in a coaching class that provided structured learning and regular tests. Online platforms like Infinity Learn and YouTube channels helped in visualizing difficult concepts. Additionally, solving previous years’ papers and mock tests from various sources was invaluable for practice.

Question 10. How did you balance your JEE preparation with other aspects of your life, such as hobbies, social activities, and school responsibilities?

Balancing JEE preparation with other aspects was challenging but essential. I allocated specific times for hobbies like playing the guitar and sports, which helped in unwinding. Social activities were limited but meaningful, mainly on weekends. I managed school responsibilities by integrating school syllabus revision with JEE preparation, ensuring I stayed on top of both without feeling overwhelmed.

Question 11. Can you share an instance where you faced a significant challenge or setback during your preparation, and how you overcame it?

One significant challenge was during my initial attempts at mock tests, where my scores were inconsistent. It was disheartening, but I used it as a learning opportunity. I analyzed my mistakes meticulously and focused on weak areas. Seeking advice from teachers and peers, and adjusting my study plan to address these gaps, helped me overcome this setback. Gradually, my scores improved as I refined my strategies.

Question 12. Finally, what advice would you give to future JEE aspirants who look up to your success, and how can they best prepare themselves for the journey ahead?

My advice to future JEE aspirants is to start early and stay consistent. Prioritize deep comprehension of concepts over mere rote memorization for effective learning and understanding. Make a structured study plan and stick to it, but also be flexible to adapt as needed. Utilize available resources wisely and practice regularly with mock tests. Stay positive, manage stress effectively, and believe in your capabilities. Hard work and perseverance are key to success, and with determination, you can achieve your goals.

Question 13: How do you believe attending Infinity Learn Institute has positively influenced your academic journey?

Answer: Attending Infinity Learn Institute has profoundly impacted my academic journey in several ways. The experienced instructors and meticulously crafted study materials provided a solid foundation for my learning. Moreover, the supportive atmosphere cultivated at Infinity Learn fostered a sense of motivation and camaraderie among peers, encouraging collaborative learning and mutual growth. Overall, my experience at Infinity Learn Institute has played a pivotal role in shaping my academic success.