NEETQuest: Jeewan Bhandari
Name: Jeewan Bhandari (Medbound Handle: @Jeewan Bhandari)
Birth Place: Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, India
Academic Qualification: MBBS from Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences (HIMS), Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India (Admission Batch: 2019)
Languages you speak/write: Hindi and English
Why did you choose this profession?
I chose the medical profession out of passion for helping others and a deep-seated interest in the field of healthcare.
When did you actually start preparing for NEET?
I began my NEET preparation in 2017 after completing my 12th grade.
Did you take any coaching? Do you think coaching is necessary for clearing NEET?
Yes, I did take coaching to prepare for NEET. While coaching can be helpful, it's not absolutely necessary. It depends on an individual's learning style. Some may excel with coaching, while others can achieve success through self-study and online resources.
How did you balance your school and NEET preparations?
I took a one-year drop after 12th grade to focus entirely on NEET preparation. During that year, I concentrated solely on my NEET studies and didn't have to juggle between school and NEET preparations.
What were your sources during preparation for Biology, Physics, and Chemistry?
For Biology, I relied heavily on NCERT textbooks and supplemented my knowledge with reference books. Physics and Chemistry required a mix of NCERT and additional study materials to cover all topics comprehensively.
Are NCERTs sufficient for cracking NEET? What's your opinion on this?
In my opinion, NCERT textbooks are a vital resource for NEET preparation, especially for Biology. However, for Physics and Chemistry, additional reference materials may be required to gain a deeper understanding and solve a variety of problems effectively.
What are the major challenges that you faced during preparation, and how did you tackle them?
One significant challenge was managing the vast syllabus and staying focused. To tackle this, I created a disciplined study schedule and stuck to it diligently. Regular revisions and self-assessment also helped me stay on track.
Is it true that when you prepare for this exam, you have to devote longer hours or burn the midnight oil? Did you have time to attend family functions or festivals, or were you always studying?
Preparing for NEET does require dedicated and consistent effort, which often means longer study hours. However, it's crucial to strike a balance. I did make time for family functions and festivals to relax and rejuvenate.
How did you keep yourself motivated during your entire journey?
I stayed motivated by reminding myself of my passion for the medical field and the impact I could make on people's lives. Setting achievable short-term goals and celebrating small victories along the way also kept me motivated.
Did you use technology like social media or your phone during your preparation? How did you prevent yourself from doomscrolling?
I limited my use of social media and my phone during study hours. It's essential to maintain discipline and set specific time slots for breaks and leisure activities to prevent distractions.
Nowadays, coaching for NEET has started from an early age (even 6th or 8th grade). What is your opinion on this?
Starting NEET coaching at such a young age may not be necessary and could lead to burnout. I believe it's crucial for students to experience school life and have a well-rounded education before diving into intense NEET preparation.
What do you think is the right time for starting preparation for NEET?
The right time to start NEET preparation varies from person to person, but I recommend beginning after completing the 10th grade, with focused preparation during the 11th and 12th grades.
How many attempts should one take at this exam if one does not succeed?
I suggest giving a maximum of two attempts. If you do not succeed, it's crucial to reassess your preparation strategy and consider alternative career paths.
The cost of pursuing an MBBS degree from a private university in India is very high, and not everyone can afford it. 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 unable to secure admission in a government institution, one can consider taking a gap year to improve their NEET score or explore other medical-related courses. Studying abroad is another option, but it's essential to research the cost, accreditation, and recognition of foreign medical degrees before making a decision.
Your Mantra for Success:
My mantra for success is discipline, dedication, and a deep passion for your chosen field. Stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself. Success will follow with perseverance and the right mindset
(NEETQuest/Jeewan Bhandari/PB)
