From Farm to Fame: Arpit Baliyan Scored 97.50% in CBSE Class 12, Shares His Inspiring Journey

In an exclusive interview with Shiksha.com, Arpit Baliyan, a standout student from VidyaGyan Residential School in Bulandshahr, Uttar Pradesh, recounts his inspiring path to academic success. Achieving a remarkable 97.50% in the CBSE Class 12 exams, Arpit, the son of a farmer, has surmounted economic hardships to reach the pinnacle of academic achievement. Having joined VidyaGyan in the 6th grade, Arpit credits the school's nurturing environment and robust support system for his success. In this discussion, he delves into his personal background, educational journey, and future aspirations.

Q. Please tell us something about yourself and your family background.

Arpit: I belong to a family where the primary occupation is farming. I live with my parents and my younger brother along with my grandfather.

Q. Tell something about your journey at VidyaGyan, in which class did you enter?

Arpit: I enrolled at Vidyagyan School in 6th grade, which quickly became a second home for me. The teachers there ensured I never felt far from home. At Vidyagyan, I had ample opportunities to excel in sports, academics, and other areas, which greatly contributed to my overall personal growth. The school provided me with various opportunities such as internships and competitions. Throughout my senior years, I received unwavering support from both my teachers and peers, which played a crucial role in shaping the success I achieve today.

Q. Please tell us about your stream, Did you choose this stream by choice? How much have you scored?

Arpit: As expected, after doing well in grade X, I chose the Science stream. I opted for PCM as this subject combination would allow me to pursue two courses, I had my plans A and B, ie Engineering and Services. I am glad I have cleared the first step towards both.

Q. What was your strategy to score above 90%?

Arpit: My strategy was pretty simple. I paid a lot of attention in class when teachers taught and later on revised the day’s topics carefully, back in the hostel. I tried to remain consistent in my efforts.

Q. Who encouraged you the most in this journey?

Arpit: Throughout my journey, I was lucky to have the support of my teachers as well as my family. The expectations that they had for me kept me motivated and tried to fulfil those expectations.

Q. What was your routine during CBSE board exam preparation?

Arpit: As you are aware we stay in a hostel, so our only resource was our teachers.  Because of my commitment to my studies, I was lucky that I was given additional lab access to browse the internet, which I used to solve my doubts. So, my preparation was around the school routine which involved being in class, clearing my doubts revising with teachers and then practising on my own.

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

Arpit: As I have mentioned before, I have successfully qualified both my chosen plans. I have cleared JEE mains and waiting to write “Advance” I have also cleared the NDA exam, and now preparing for SSB. If I have to choose, I will choose later.

Q. Are you preparing for CUET?

Arpit: No, I am not preparing for CUET

Q. Will you be going for JEE or NEET? What is the reason for choosing higher education in this stream?

Arpit: JEE

Q. Which courses and universities are you targeting?

Arpit: My dream colleges like many other aspirants are -IITs or NIITs, where I would like to pursue Computer Science.

Q. Please share some tips for students prepping to appear in CBSE Board Exams 2025.

Arpit: I have three tips for the next year’s grade XII-

1. Attend classes regularly, listen to your teachers, and talk to them whenever in doubt.
2. Revise your syllabus from time to time. On a monthly basis, make sure that you have touched base with all that that has been done so far.
3. And last but not least, BE CONSISTENT in your efforts. I wish success to all the juniors who will write their CBSE XII next year.