From Plan B to Plan A+: The Inspiring Journey of IAS Topper Sonal Goel

Sonal Goel's story is a beacon of inspiration for UPSC aspirants. Born in Panipat and educated in Delhi, Sonal faced skepticism from her family when she decided to pursue the UPSC exam. Despite the initial reservations, especially from her father, Sonal remained steadfast in her resolve. She juggled her job, LLB studies, and UPSC preparations and ultimately secured an All India Rank of 13 in her second attempt.

The Early Years

Sonal completed her schooling in Delhi and graduated from Delhi University's Shri Ram College of Commerce. She also earned a Company Secretary (CS) degree. Interestingly, Sonal wasn't initially aware of the civil services exam until she read an article about a civil servant in a magazine. This sparked her interest in becoming an IAS officer.

The Turning Point

When Sonal expressed her desire to prepare for the UPSC exam, her father advised her to have a backup plan, acknowledging the exam's difficulty. Undeterred, Sonal decided to enroll in an LLB course at Delhi University while also working as a company secretary. This became her Plan B, but her focus never wavered from her primary goal.

The Journey to Success

Sonal's first attempt at the UPSC exam in 2006 was unsuccessful, but she didn't let this setback deter her. She continued to balance her job, LLB studies, and UPSC preparations. Her perseverance paid off in 2007 when she secured the 13th rank nationwide, realizing her dream of becoming an IAS officer.

The Takeaway

Sonal Goel's journey stands as a testament to what can be achieved with meticulous planning and unwavering dedication. Her story is not just about clearing one of India's toughest exams; it's about believing in oneself and making consistent efforts towards achieving one's dreams.