Amritanshu Nayak is a BITS Pilani (Hyderabad, ‘22) graduate in BE Electrical and Electronics Engineering. He has achieved a remarkable milestone by securing AIR 110 in the UPSC IAS 2023 examination. His journey reflects a blend of academic excellence, leadership, and unwavering commitment to public service. During his time at BITS Pilani, Amritanshu’s involvement in various extracurricular activities, including serving as Vice-President of the Entrepreneurship Cell, honed his leadership skills and deepened his problem-solving abilities. His transition from a rigorous engineering background to cracking one of India’s most challenging exams showcases his strategic approach to learning and preparation. Amritanshu’s success story is a testament to his resilience, strategic thinking, and dedication to making a difference through public service. A proud BITSian, Amritanshu continues to inspire future generations with his journey from engineering student to top-ranking civil services officer.

What initially motivated you to pursue Electrical and Electronics Engineering, and what were your expectations for your time at BITS?

My primary motivation was the high score I achieved on the entrance exam and the encouragement from seniors and family friends. I aimed to attend a prestigious institute like BITS due to its flexibility, core structure, infrastructure, and strong alumni network.

How did your early experiences and mentors at BITS Hyderabad shape your academic and career interests?

Being around talented peers pushed me to think and work smarter. The institution's freedom, including zero percent attendance and access to various clubs and societies, played a significant role in shaping my aspirations.

As Vice-President of the Entrepreneurship Cell at BITS Hyderabad in 2020, what motivated you to take on this leadership role, and what were some key initiatives you led?

I wanted to test my leadership skills and contribute meaningfully to a club I was passionate about. Key initiatives included launching the “Launchpad” event and adapting to online activities due to COVID-19.

How did you balance your leadership responsibilities with academic commitments?

I used a structured daily schedule to manage both responsibilities. A supportive team and peer group helped distribute the workload, and managing mental health through spiritual practices and spending time with family and friends was crucial.

What are some of your most memorable moments from your time at BITS Hyderabad?

Memorable moments include fun with hostel mates, late-night conversations, pranks, birthday celebrations, and outings with friends and teammates.

When did you decide to pursue a career in public service, and what inspired you to prepare for the UPSC exam?

I decided at the end of my third year, inspired by my family’s background in civil services and my leadership experiences. My strategy involved revisiting basics, taking online coaching, and focusing on self-study, writing practice, and interview preparation.

What were some major challenges you faced during UPSC preparation, and how did you overcome them?

Challenges included improving handwriting and maintaining consistency. I overcame these by setting daily targets, taking breaks, and using standard resources like NCERTs and newspapers. Regular practice and reading habits were essential.

How did your background in Electrical and Electronics Engineering assist you in preparing for the UPSC exams?

The rigorous study habits from my engineering degree were beneficial in managing the demands of the UPSC exams. The logical and analytical skills developed through Electrical and Electronics Engineering were useful for both preparation and examination.

How did you approach each stage of the UPSC examination, including the preliminary, mains, and interview rounds?

For the prelims, I focused on mock tests and building a competitive mindset. For main, regular writing practice and staying updated with current affairs were crucial. For the interview, practicing in front of a mirror and recording my voice helped refine my presentation skills.

What advice would you give to BITSians preparing for competitive exams like the UPSC?

Develop a strong mindset and consistency. Hard work, patience, and a clear focus on your goals are vital for success in competitive exams. Make the most of the opportunities provided in college while maintaining a mature approach.