BeyondBooks: ‘Practising with a timer is key to managing the exam well’

She is a student of Class IX at Apeejay School, Kharghar. Her immediate goal is to work hard and secure excellent marks in her Class X Boards next year. She also hopes to gain admission to a prestigious university. Meet Ruhi Sengupta, who recently took the Maharashtra State Presecondary Scholarship Exam conducted by the Maharashtra State Council of Examination, Pune and earned a scholarship by securing the third position in the Raigad district.

In a candid interview, she talks about how the school teachers supported and guided her, among other things.

How did you first learn about the Maharashtra scholarship, and what encouraged you to apply?

I first learnt about the examination through a circular issued by the school. After that, I collected more information about it. I was motivated to apply because I have always liked participating in scholarship examinations. Scholarships give me a sense of responsibility and independence. It makes me feel good when I can contribute and take responsibility for myself, even in small ways.

What was the application and selection process like for you?

The school provided us with a standard application form seeking the student’s personal details. I filled in the required information and submitted the form along with the registration fee to the school office, as I was registering through the school.

How did the teachers guide and support you?

My teachers guided and supported me throughout the entire process. They helped me while I was filling in the registration form and provided information about how and where I should prepare for the exam, as it was my first attempt. Whenever I had any doubts, my teachers were always available to help me.

How did you feel when you found out that you had received the scholarship?

I felt extremely happy and surprised because I had not expected to receive the scholarship. What made the achievement even more special was learning that I had secured the third position in the entire district. I felt proud that I had earned something through my own efforts, which would also support me in the coming years.

What does this scholarship mean to you and your family?

The scholarship means a lot to me. Although I had worked hard for it, actually receiving it had seemed like a distant dream. My family members were also very happy because my efforts had paid off. My parents had supported me throughout the process by taking me to the exam venue and guiding me.

In what ways will the scholarship support your education and future academic plans?

The scholarship will support my education in the coming year. It makes me happy that I have been able to contribute positively towards something that my parents usually manage. At a time when prices were constantly rising, my parents were also pleased to see that I had contributed towards the financial responsibilities of our family.

Advice to other students in Maharashtra who wish to apply for a scholarship.

I would advise them to practise solving mock tests and sample papers within a fixed time limit. The main challenge I faced during the exam was the time constraint.