P P Archana grabbed 334th rank in the all India civil services examinations. Having completed her education from the Kannur engineering college, Archana works at the electricity board on a temporary post. The young achiever talks about how she prepared for the exams and her future plans as well.

What is the secret of your success?

I passed the exam in my second attempt. Though I got through the preliminary last time I couldn’t attend the main exam. Sociology was my chosen subject. I was working as a substation officer in the electricity board. As there was a shift system, I had to work only for 8 hours. I utilized the rest of my time for studying. I never planned to study for a fixed duration. I would usually decide to study a particular topic and would spend time until I learn it. That is the secret of my success.

Are you extraordinarily intelligent?

I am not. To be honest, I find teaching as the most amazing job. My parents were teachers. I decided to write the civil service exam as I thought I didn’t have the ability to explain things as well as they could. I deem civil service and teaching as incredibly satisfying careers. Hard work and dedication pave the way to a satisfying and successful career. Our intellectual abilities do not matter much.

Can you name a few IAS officers who have inspired you?

TV Anupama, Dr. Vasuki, Hari Kishore

What is your mantra to avoid tension?

I am a great foodie. I tend to eat a lot when I am tensed. My favorite dish is biryani. I couldn’t stand the pressure, the day before the results were out. So I invited all my friends to a hotel, had lots of food and slept peacefully. There is no point in being tensed.

What are your future plans?

More than happiness, I felt relieved when I knew about the results. Success in the civil service exams depends on luck as well. My dream is to become an IAS officer. But I am not sure whether I would get it, considering my rank. However, I will accept the option that I am allotted. I have applied for the civil service exams this year as well.

What is your stand on elections?

Everyone should vote during the election. Development is what I consider the most. I think the young generations too is looking for development and better opportunities.

Family

Archana is the daughter of late KE Jeevaraj and PP Geetha who is a teacher at the Pilathara UP School.