Success in competitive examinations rarely comes without setbacks, and Shashank Gaurav from Bihar’s Chhapra district is a testament to that reality. After facing repeated disappointments in both the UPSC Civil Services Examination and the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) exam, he refused to abandon his dream. His persistence finally paid off when he secured All India Rank 2 in the latest BPSC examination, turning years of struggle into a remarkable achievement.A dream inspired during collegeShashank Gaurav belongs to Panchmahala Sahajitpur Panchayat in Bihar’s Baniyapur block. He completed his BSc (Honours) in Zoology from Ramjas College, University of Delhi.Interestingly, becoming a civil servant was not part of his childhood ambitions. According to media reports, his perspective changed during his college years when he interacted with several IAS and IPS officers at academic events. Those conversations made him realise that the civil services offered an opportunity to create meaningful change in society, inspiring him to pursue the career.
A long road marked by failures
The journey, however, was far from easy.Before his BPSC success, Shashank appeared for the UPSC Civil Services Examination four times. While he reached the Mains stage in some attempts, he was unable to clear the examination completely. He also qualified for the UPSC CAPF Assistant Commandant examination, securing AIR 57, but could not clear the physical test.His BPSC journey also began with disappointment. He treated his first attempt as a learning experience without extensive preparation. In his second attempt, despite working hard, he narrowly missed qualifying for the Preliminary examination by just a few marks.Instead of giving up, he analysed his mistakes and prepared for another attempt with renewed focus.
Third attempt brings Rank 2
Shashank’s persistence paid off in his third BPSC attempt.He successfully cleared the Preliminary, Mains and Interview stages, securing Rank 2 in the examination.According to reports, his focused preparation began after September 2023, and throughout 2024 and 2025, he devoted himself entirely to his studies.
A disciplined preparation strategy
Shashank believes the Preliminary examination is the most challenging stage because it eliminates the largest number of candidates. As a result, he devoted significant time to mastering the syllabus and revising it repeatedly.His daily routine reportedly involved studying eight to nine hours, beginning around 9 am. Rather than studying continuously for long stretches, he divided his schedule into three or four study sessions, took an evening walk to refresh himself and resumed studying later at night.According to him, studying in shorter, focused intervals helps improve concentration while also maintaining physical and mental well-being.
Family support during difficult times
Repeated failures naturally led to moments of self-doubt. After unsuccessful UPSC and BPSC attempts, Shashank questioned whether he was suited for the highly competitive examinations.During these challenging phases, he credits his father and elder brother for standing by him, encouraging him to continue despite repeated setbacks.Their support, combined with consistent effort, helped him stay motivated until he achieved success.
A lesson in resilience
Shashank Gaurav’s journey demonstrates that success in competitive examinations often requires patience, persistence and the willingness to learn from failure. His rise from multiple unsuccessful attempts to securing BPSC Rank 2 serves as an inspiring reminder that determination and disciplined preparation can eventually turn setbacks into success.
