Name: Soumi Patra (MedBound handle: @soumihere._)

Birth Place: Kolkata, India

Educational Qualification: MBBS from Murshidabad Medical College and Hospital, West Bengal, India (Admission batch: 2022)

Languages you speak or write: Bengali, English and Hindi.

1. In which year did you qualify for NEET?

   2022

2. College Name and admission batch:

   Murshidabad Medical College and Hospital, West Bengal, India (Admission batch: 2022)

3. Why did you choose this profession?

   I chose this profession because it allows me to interact with more people, understand their problems, and contribute to their healing process. Making others happy through my work brings me immense satisfaction.

4. When did you actually start preparing for NEET?

   I started preparing for NEET during my 11th-grade studies.

5. Did you take any coaching? If yes, do you think coaching is necessary for clearing NEET?

   I believe some guidance is essential, especially at a vulnerable age. Coaching can provide structure and help maintain focus. It's helpful in understanding your position and improving your preparation.

6. How did you balance your school and NEET Preparation? Was it the same, or did you study separately for NEET and the school examination?

   I didn't study separately for school and NEET. I integrated my preparation while managing both aspects.

7. What were your sources during preparation for biology, physics, and chemistry?

   I primarily relied on NCERT textbooks.

8. Are NCERTs sufficient for cracking NEET? What's your opinion on this?

   While NCERT covers many topics, some chapters may require additional resources for a comprehensive understanding.

9. What were the major challenges you faced during preparation, and how did you tackle them?

   I dealt with distractions, social media, and time management. Solutions vary for individuals; finding your method to handle distractions is crucial. Creating a structured routine played a significant role for me.

10. Is it true that when you prepare for this exam, you have to devote 18 hours a day or something like that? Did you attend family functions or festivals, or were you always studying? Devoting 18 hours a day isn't necessary. A balanced routine is vital, and making time for yourself is equally important. I attended family functions and maintained a healthy study-life balance.

11. How did you keep yourself motivated during your entire journey? My aspiration to become a doctor and watching videos of medical professionals enjoying their college life kept me motivated. Supportive teachers also played a role.

12. Did you use technology like social media or your phone during your preparation? How did you prevent yourself from Doomscrolling?

    I used technology, but it's better to limit usage rather than cutting it off entirely. I deactivated accounts in the last four months of preparation. Each person's approach varies.

13. Nowadays, coaching for NEET has started from an early age (even 6th or 8th grade). What is your opinion on this?

    Coaching from 8th grade can aid better understanding, primarily for concepts.

14. What do you think is the right time for starting preparation for NEET?

    Starting during 11th grade is ideal. However, seriousness and consistency from the beginning are essential.

15. Till how many attempts should one give this exam?

    Two or at most three attempts are recommended.

16. As the cost of pursuing an MBBS degree from a private university in India is very high, not everyone can afford it. What do you suggest someone do if they are unable to secure admission in a government college? Should they take a gap year or seek admission abroad for the same course?

    Depending on their confidence, they can consider reappearing for the exam. Pursuing MBBS abroad may not be worth it if planning to return to India.

17. Your Mantra for success.

    Stay hydrated and remain consistent.

18. What advice would you like to give to NEET aspirants?

    Consistency is key.

19. Do you believe that a relationship hampers your selection? If yes, why? If no, then why not?

    Relationship dynamics vary. Toxic relationships can be distracting. Being able to control oneself matters. College life brings opportunities to meet new people.

20. What is your spiciest opinion that most people disagree with? People think studying for 16 hours is the only way. I believe having fun while being disciplined is possible.

21. How would your parents describe what you do?

    They are happy to see me pursuing this path.

22. What do you hope the world will look like in 10 years?

    I hope for a world with more open-minded individuals.

23. Anything you want to share about yourself.

    I'm not particularly interesting, so I don't have much to share.

(NEETQuest/Soumi Patra/PB)