ICSE Topper 2023 Nandini Puri with 99.4% wants to become an economist or financial analyst

ICSE Topper 2023 Nandini Puri scored a total of 497 marks out of 500, i.e. 99.4% in ICSE Exams 2023 without any coaching! In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, Puri shared her ICSE Board Exams 2023 preparation strategy, career plans, tips for aspirants and more! Check out some interesting excerpts from the interview below:

ICSE Topper 2023 Nandini Puri scored a total of 497 marks out of 500, i.e. 99.4% in ICSE Exams 2023 without any coaching! Nandini is a City Topper from SETH ANANDRAM JAIPURIA SCHOOL, KANPUR, who is looking forward to taking the Humanities stream to pursue a career as an economist or financial analyst. Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations, CISCE announced the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education, ICSE Result 2023 on May 14, 2023, at 3 pm. Expressing delight over her ICSE results, Nandini said, "I felt an immense sense of pride in my achievements, and it was truly a surreal and gratifying experience. It has motivated me to continue striving for excellence and set higher goals for myself in the future."

ICSE Topper 2023 Marksheet

In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, Puri shared her ICSE Board Exams 2023 preparation strategy, career plans, tips for aspirants and more! Check out some interesting excerpts from the interview below:

Q: Congratulations on your result! How was your reaction after seeing the results?

A: After seeing the result, my initial reaction was an overwhelming sense of joy and accomplishment. It was an incredible moment of validation and gratification for all the hard work and dedication I had put into my studies. I felt an immense sense of pride in my achievements, and it was truly a surreal and gratifying experience. It has motivated me to continue striving for excellence and set higher goals for myself in the future.

Q: Did you score what you expected?

A: While I had worked diligently and prepared thoroughly for the exams, I must admit that I did not expect to achieve the top marks. I had set high standards for myself and aimed to perform well, but being the topper came as a pleasant surprise. It was a humbling experience to see my efforts pay off and my hard work recognized by earning a high score.

Q: Please tell us something about your family background.

A: I come from an extremely supportive and close-knit family. My father is a businessman dealing in air-conditioners; my mother is a homemaker and my younger brother is in Class 9th studying in the same school. Both my parents and my brother have always emphasized the value of education and encouraged me to pursue my goals. They have instilled in me a strong work ethic and provided a nurturing environment that fostered my personal and academic growth. My family has always been there for me, offering guidance, motivation, and unwavering support throughout my educational journey. Their belief in my abilities has been a driving force behind my achievements, and I am truly grateful for the foundation they have provided me. Their encouragement and sacrifices have played a significant role in shaping who I am today.

Q: Please tell about the stream that you are targeting.

A: I pursuing the stream of Humanities because it aligns with my passion for exploring the complexities of human society and culture. I am particularly interested Economics because it provides a unique perspective on understanding the intricate workings of societies, markets, and human behavior. Choosing the Humanities stream with a focus on economics allows me to combine my passion for understanding human behavior and societal dynamics with the analytical rigor of economic theory. I believe that this interdisciplinary approach will not only provide me with a well-rounded education but also equip me with the tools to contribute to informed policy-making, economic research, and positive societal change.

Q: What was your strategy to score above 95%?

A: My school has been instrumental in helping me to reach here. To score above 95%, I believe in following a strategic, consistent and disciplined approach to my studies. Primarily, I prioritize effective time management. I emphasize understanding and conceptual clarity, which was provided to us by my teachers. Their constant support, encouragement to group discussions and peer teaching sessions were invaluable. Lastly, I maintain a balanced approach to my overall well-being. The school has always encouraged its students to have an all-around personality development along with academics. I was a part of various Model United Nations, literary events and other competitions.

Q: Did you take any online or offline coaching?

A: No. Schooling in an institution like Seth Anandram Jaipuria, Kanpur with an excellent and well-equipped faculty of teachers for all the subjects, does not require the assistance of any coaching.

Q: Who encouraged you the most in this journey?

A: Throughout my academic journey, there are various people who have consistently encouraged me, the most being my Principal, Mrs Shikha Banerjee, my teachers, my parents and my brother. They have been my unwavering support system, always motivating me to strive for excellence and pursue my goals with determination. Whenever I faced challenges or self-doubt, they were there to uplift me, offer words of encouragement, and remind me of my potential. Their constant presence and belief in me have given me the confidence to overcome obstacles and stay focused on my path.

Q: What was your routine during ICSE board exam preparation?

A: As a topper during the board exams, I maintained a disciplined and structured routine to ensure maximum productivity and effective preparation. I firmly believe that consistency and a well-balanced approach were key to my success. Typically, the day involved going regularly to school, completing my assignments on time and self-studying for two hours at least. Taking short breaks between study sessions was crucial for maintaining focus and avoiding burnout. During these breaks, I engaged in activities that helped me relax and recharge like reading newspaper or watching National Geographic Documentaries.

Q: What are your future plans? Which career path are you aiming for?

A: My core subject is Economics and therefore, I plan to pursue it further and make a career in the same. As a career path, I look forward to becoming an economist or financial analyst for I envision myself in a leadership role, actively shaping economic policies and strategies that promote sustainable development, reduce inequality, and foster economic growth.

Q: What is your favorite subject?

A: I have always enjoyed reading and studying the entire subject for I tend to relate them to my daily life. I am interested in Economics and Geography as these subjects challenge my critical thinking abilities. Both subjects are fascinating and interconnected, with geography providing a spatial understanding of the world and economics exploring the complexities of economic systems and their impact on societies.

Q: Are you planning to begin preparing for any entrance exam?

A: Yes, I am planning to start preparations for the Common University Entrance Test-UG.

Q: What is your dream college/institute?

A: Delhi University represents the perfect blend of academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities, and a conducive learning environment, making it my dream college.

Q: What are your future goals?

A: In terms of my future plans, my primary goal is to pursue a successful career in my chosen field. I am committed to continuously developing my skills, knowledge, and expertise to thrive in a dynamic and ever-evolving professional landscape. My future plans are focused on achieving professional success, pursuing ongoing learning opportunities, and fostering a fulfilling and balanced life, making my institution, teachers, family, and myself proud.

Q: Please share some tips for students prepping up to appear in ICSE Board Exams 2024

A: The students should follow proper time management suiting their academic capabilities. They should use social media for constructive purposes. They should consistently keep on working on their personal development and their academics. They must not avoid extra-circulars which the school has been actively promoting for holistic development is the essence of school life. They should value and respect their teachers and parents paying attention to their advice. Keep their hopes up and face challenges with a positive attitude.

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