Interactive Session with Ms. Avdhija Gupta
On August 13, 2025, the Department of History, in collaboration with the Career Counselling Cell, organised an interactive session with Ms. Avdhija Gupta in Loreto College, Kolkata. This was an initiative for alumnae engagement on the part of the Department of History. Ms. Gupta, an alumna of the History department of Loreto College Kolkata, secured an impressive All India Rank (AIR) of 43 in UPSC CSE, 2024 and was also scored the highest marks in the country in the History (Optional Paper). The session was enthusiastically attended by Semester I students of the History and Political Science Departments.
The event commenced with an introduction delivered by Dr. Krishnokoli Hazra and Dr. Anindita Bandyopadhyay. Following the introduction, Ms. Avdhija Gupta shared her insights regarding the UPSC preparation process. She offered a compelling account of her UPSC journey and provided essential advice to the aspirants. She highlighted the importance of reading newspapers daily, and becoming an aware global citizen. Furthermore, she emphasised the importance of studying effectively and focusing on graduate-level subjects in order to gain an edge and write personalised answers over generic responses. Ms. Gupta also talked about the importance of dedication and willpower, she urged the students not to give up and confidently pursue their goals. She discussed regarding time management and the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. She talked about the ways of successfully navigating setbacks and failure with resilience and renewed purpose. Additionally, she pointed out the superficial nature of social media and offered guidance to diligently use this digital platform. She fondly reminisced about her days at Loreto College and underscored how the rigorous lectures and academic foundation she received here profoundly shaped her performance in UPSC mains. She encouraged the students to actively participate in college events to build a strong resume.
An interactive session followed this discussion. The students asked numerous questions to which Ms. Gupta shared her thoughtful insights and advice. She also generously encouraged the students to approach her after the event, in case any doubts remained. The students benefited immensely from this overall session and felt motivated. A vote of thanks marked the end of this event.
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