Hey everyone!😃
Many people have asked me this : "How to balance college placements and CAT prep simultaneously?" 🤔 When I was in my final year, I was perplexed about the same. I'd like to share my experience on this matter, hoping it turns out to be useful for some.
See original post at linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sakshi-saxena-4585ba195_hey-everyone-many-people-have-asked-me-activity-7069591185043914753-ZWZf?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
Here's my two cents:
🎯 First of all, it's essential to understand the importance of both getting placed and securing a high percentile in CAT. Observing the current trend among B-schools (showing preference for candidates with work-ex, granting them additional marks)one should take their job search seriously, so that if your attempt this year doesn't go as planned you can try next year while working and also the year next to that (collecting marks & work-ex).
Also see : Recent Opportunities
⏰With just 5-6 months remaining for CAT, and the need to study for mid sem and end-sem exams, as well as the daunting task of coding practice and learning CS concepts (FYI, I'm a civil engineer), the challenge was overwhelming. I've been in those shoes. I was determined to have it all.😅
Here's what I did:
1️⃣ Till September: I divided my time for placement prep and CAT prep in a ratio of 7:3. Additionally, I made it a point to take weekly mocks and analyze them. For placements, I relied on resources like GeeksforGeeks, Coursera, PrepInsta, IndiaBix, and YouTube.
✅ I think that CAT and placements are not entirely distinct. When you prepare for CAT, you're also honing your skills for the aptitude tests conducted by companies during campus placements. The only difference lies in the field-specific aspects.
➕Furthermore, preparing for job interviews is helping you prepare for the PI after CAT. You're gaining valuable experience in facing interviewers and refining your communication skills.
2️⃣ By September: I shifted my focus more towards CAT. I began taking mocks every 2-3 days, analyzed them, practiced modules and sheets provided by T.I.M.E., and attended regular classes. Managed placements on the side.
3️⃣ October and November: During these months, I tried to revise all that I had learned and aimed to cover whatever remained. Mocks every 2-3 days. I set small goals, like today I have to solve four RCs and four sets of DILR anyhow, along with routine practice of QA.
4️⃣ November: I took mocks almost everyday in the same time as my CAT exam slot. Analyzed my performance & filled in the gaps. For college exams, I attended classes whenever possible and took notes from friends who were regular.
🟢I got placed in three companies, cleared my college exams, and secured a decent enough CAT percentile to be considered by some of the top B-schools.
I'd say one plans things, but things don't always go as planned.😂
There were rough patches like some illnesses, the urge to go out & have fun, low feelings etc. I took my breaks, but kept my goals in mind and kept going.
This is an outline of how I did it, but I believe everyone's journey is unique, so assess your aspirations and priorities and tailor your own path.👍🏻😊
Best wishes 🙌
also see: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/krishpachauri_nomorenextyear-nomorenextyear-codingninjas-activity-7069898690898853889-8JQX?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop
