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Journalism of Courage
— Varun Satia
Every year, thousands of students dedicate months, even years, to preparing for exams like CAT, IIT-JEE, and UPSC. For many, these tests are viewed as defining moments in their lives, promising entry into elite institutions and the gateway to a brighter future. But what happens when the results don’t go your way? Does it mean failure? Absolutely not.
Exams like CAT, IIT-JEE, and UPSC are often over-glorified, with success stories taking centre stage and failures unfairly stigmatised. This creates enormous pressure on aspirants, reinforcing the idea that these tests are the sole measure of one’s potential.
However, the reality is far more complex. These exams assess a specific skill set, not your entire capability or future potential. They’re highly competitive, with only a small percentage of candidates achieving their goals. CAT, for instance, sees over 300,000 participants annually, yet only around 2% make it to the IIMs. Such odds, while challenging, don’t define the worth or talent of the remaining 98%.
It’s important to separate your self-worth from exam outcomes. Success isn’t confined to clearing a test — it’s about adaptability, resilience, and your ability to seize opportunities in an ever-changing world.
Not clearing an exam doesn’t mean you’ve hit a dead end. It simply means it’s time to explore different ways to achieve your goals. History is filled with examples of individuals who didn’t take the conventional route but still achieved remarkable success.
Take Roger Federer’s reflection from his 2024 Dartmouth College address: he won only 54% of the points he played in his career. His message was simple — success isn’t about winning every time but about persistence and growth. Similarly, not clearing an exam is a chance to redirect your energy toward discovering new opportunities and building a future that’s uniquely yours.
If one door closes, others are waiting to be opened. Here’s how you can navigate forward:
What truly drives you? Is it the degree, the skills, or the career possibilities? Clarifying your goals can help you identify other pathways to reach them. Sometimes, these alternate routes are more rewarding and better suited to your abilities.
In today’s world, skills often matter more than credentials. Pursue internships, certifications, or targeted training programmes that enhance your expertise in areas like digital marketing, data science, or product management. A strong portfolio can speak louder than a degree.
Building a strong network can open doors, exams can’t. Connect with industry professionals, attend events, and seek mentorship. Opportunities often come through relationships and conversations, not just qualifications.
Consider niche certifications in fields like technology, sustainability, or design. These are increasingly recognised by employers and can provide focused expertise, often in less time and at a lower cost than traditional degrees.
Life rarely goes exactly as planned, but that’s what makes it interesting. Adapting to setbacks, finding your strengths, and pushing forward will always be more important than a single test result.
Success is not a score or a rank; it’s about how you respond to challenges and create opportunities for yourself. Exams like CAT, while important, are not the ultimate determinants of your future. Your journey is shaped by your ability to learn, grow, and persevere.
If results didn’t go as planned, take it as an opportunity to discover paths you hadn’t considered before. Sometimes, the most meaningful journeys begin when we step off the beaten track. Let this moment be a springboard to something greater, driven by your unique talents and aspirations.
(The author is the founder and CEO of Kraftshala)
