Passing the Chartered Accountancy (CA) exam is no easy feat. Many students give up halfway, believing they cannot succeed, while others push through, ultimately inspiring others with their success. Poonam Sheoran is one such individual who achieved an impressive All India 4th rank in the CA Final examination, motivating countless students along the way. In a recent interview, she shared her journey, revealing how her phone was inundated with congratulatory messages following her results. While she hoped to be among the top 10, she never anticipated securing the top 4 position. Let’s dive deeper into how Poonam prepared for her CA exams, the hours she dedicated to study, and the support she received from her family.
Poonam’s Study Strategy
Poonam explains that the CA Final course grants a total of three years, during which students must undertake a 2.5-year internship followed by 6 months dedicated to self-study. “In those initial 2.5 years, my primary goal was to complete all my classes,” she states. “During the last six months, I concentrated solely on self-study.” While her daily study hours were not fixed in the first 2.5 years, she made sure to maximize her study time over the weekends, balancing both work and study during weekdays.
Study Hours
During the final six months, Poonam committed to studying 8-10 hours daily. She emphasized, “I spent those last six months with my family, who ensured my every need was met—be it meals or emotional support. They encouraged me even when I felt overwhelmed, reminding me of their faith in my abilities.”
Minimizing Distractions
Poonam also mentioned her approach to distractions. “I didn’t have Instagram on my phone, but I did use YouTube for educational content. On days when I’d study for 8-10 hours, I’d reward myself by watching a movie to refresh my mind. To stay focused, I set a timer, limiting my YouTube usage to 1.5 to 2 hours daily.”
Future Aspirations
Poonam is now contemplating a career in consultancy, but she also has aspirations to pursue an MBA and experience college life fully. She advises future CA aspirants by stating, “The entire course spans 4.5 years. Initially, students feel motivated, but as time progresses, demotivation often sets in. It is essential to maintain a positive mindset during these challenging phases.”
Key Takeaways for CA Aspirants
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Set a Study Schedule | Allocate specific hours for study and stick to them; weekends can be a crucial time for extended study. |
| Seek Family Support | A supportive family can help maintain focus and motivation during stressful study periods. |
| Minimize Distractions | Limit social media use and set timers for productive study sessions. |
| Stay Positive | Maintain a positive mindset to combat challenges and demotivation throughout the journey. |
This inspiring story of Poonam Sheoran exemplifies the dedication and perseverance required to excel in the challenging CA examinations. Her approach and mindset can serve as a guiding light for aspirants aiming for success in this demanding field.