Educational Background
After doing O/A level from Lahore Grammar School, I acquired my Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Kinnaird College for Women, Lahore. Immediately after my graduation, I started preparing for the CSS 2017 examination.
Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS): Most Conspicuous Attracted Feature
Being a student of economics and having my own understanding of the ‘real’ issues that Pakistan faces, I have always been interested in the processes of policy formulation, and execution thereupon. Thus, being a part of PAS did offer me not only the much sought-after prestige, but it also meant that I could do what I had always wanted to, that is, making a positive contribution towards my country and its people.
Key to Making a Difference in Written Part of CSS Exam
Being comprehensive, yet to the point! The only thing that differentiates those who pass the written part of CSS exam from those who fail is the ability to mould and present one’s knowledge the way the question demands. In my opinion, it is important to first understand the question and then have a clear brain-map as to how to attempt that particular question in the available time. Also, good presentation (neat handwriting, use of markers, drawing of diagrams or flow charts, etc.) always gets one some extra credit.
Strategy to Get Through CSS Compulsory Subjects
I adopted a targeted approach; my principal focus was on making concise notes for each subject and then discussing them in a group. For Current Affairs, I mostly relied on online sources. Similarly, for other compulsory subjects, I preferred gathering information from different sources rather than relying on a single book.