NEETQuest: Akanksha Gupta
Name: Akanksha Gupta (Medbound Handle: @Akanksha Gupta)
Birth Place: Uttar Pradesh
Academic Qualification: MBBS from All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, Uttarakhand, India (2020-2025)
Languages you speak/write: Hindi and English
Why did you choose this profession?
I chose this profession because it has always been my childhood dream, and I wanted to serve my country through this honorable profession.
When did you actually start preparing for NEET? Did you take any coaching? Do you think coaching is necessary for clearing NEET?
I started preparing for NEET in class 11 and used online resources for my preparation. I believe coaching can be helpful, but it depends on individual preferences.
What were your sources during preparation for Biology, Physics, and Chemistry? Are NCERTs sufficient for cracking NEET?
For Biology, Physics, and Chemistry, I watched Physics Wallah lectures and used NCERT for Physics and Chemistry. For Biology, I preferred Garima Goel's lectures and emphasized the importance of NCERT.
How did you balance your school and NEET preparations? Was it the same, or did you study separately for NEET and school examinations?
To balance my school and NEET preparations, I focused on the school syllabus and also solved past year questions (PYQs) as part of my NEET preparation.
What are the major challenges that you faced during preparation, and how did you tackle them?
The major challenges I faced during preparation were time management and stress. To tackle them, I created a study schedule, took breaks, practiced past papers, sought guidance and used relaxation techniques.
Is it true that when you prepare for this exam, you have to devote longer hours or burn midnight oil? Did you have time to attend family functions or festivals, or were you always studying?
While study hours varied, I usually avoided attending family functions or festivals due to the demands of preparation.
How did you keep yourself motivated during your entire journey?
My motivation throughout the journey came from my dream and strong family support.
Did you use technology like social media or phone during your preparation? How did you prevent yourself from doomscrolling?
I used my phone for studying purposes and kept away from social media.
Nowadays, coaching for NEET has started from an early age (even 6th or 8th grade). What is your opinion on this? What do you think is the right time for starting preparation for NEET?
Regarding when to start preparation for NEET, I believe starting from class 11 is sufficient, but the right time might vary for individuals.
How many attempts should one take at this exam if one does not succeed?
The number of attempts one should take at this exam depends on individual interest; some may take more attempts, while others may take fewer.
The cost of pursuing an MBBS degree from a private university in India is very high. What do you suggest someone do if unable to secure admission in a government institution? Should they take a gap year or seek admission abroad for the same course?
If someone is unable to secure admission in a government institution for an MBBS degree due to cost constraints, they can explore other affordable private institutions, take a gap year to improve qualifications, or consider seeking admission abroad, weighing the pros and cons of each option.
Your mantra for success?
My mantra for success is consistent effort, continuous learning, and a positive mindset.
What advice would you like to give to the NEET aspirants?
My advice to NEET aspirants is to maintain a disciplined study schedule, focus on understanding concepts, practice with mock tests, seek clarification on doubts, and take care of physical and mental well-being.
Do you believe that a relationship hampers your selection? If yes, why? If no, then why not?
I personally found it challenging to handle studies and a relationship together, but for some, it might be advantageous as mutual motivation can be helpful.
What is your spiciest opinion that most people disagree with?
One spicy opinion I have is that discussing decisions with family and close ones before making choices is important, even though some of my college peers may disagree with this.
How would your parents describe what you do?
My parents would probably say, "My daughter is studying to become a doctor."
What do you hope the world will look like in 10 years?
In 10 years, I hope to see more improvements in the healthcare and education systems.
Anything you want to share about yourself?
I aspire to become a doctor who not only treats diseases but also connects with patients on a personal level and understands them from their perspective.
(NEETQuest/Akanksha Gupta/PB)
