I’m Raju Pilli, an SSB recommended candidate who faced numerous challenges and setbacks before finally achieving my dream. My journey is a testament to the power of persistence, dedication, and the right guidance. I hope my story inspires other aspirants who are preparing for the SSB interview.

Early Aspirations and College Days

During my college days, I was heavily involved in sports and extracurricular activities. While many of my peers were content with the idea of a traditional 9-to-5 job, I yearned for something more—a career filled with adventure, challenges, and a sense of pride. I wanted to serve my country, make my parents proud, and truly make a difference.

Written Preparation: Laying the Foundation

For the written exams, I focused on the subjects I was comfortable with—math and reasoning. I knew the importance of a strong foundation, so I revisited the basics and ensured I had them covered. For General Studies (GS), I relied on standard books like NCERT and Laxmikanth. Knowing that the CGCAT exam places significant emphasis on the static portion, I prepared thoroughly in that area. Additionally, I kept myself updated with current affairs by reading newspapers and the magazines provided by No Frills Academy (NFA).

My SSB Experience: The Path to Recommendation

My SSB journey was far from easy. This was my 18th attempt. I had been screened out three times and conferenced out eleven times before finally getting my fourth recommendation. For the Officer Intelligence Rating (OIR) test, I practiced using YouTube videos, which helped me complete the story on time and deliver a confident narration.

During the group discussion, I maintained a strong position and was even nominated by my group for the narration. Interestingly, I never practiced WAT, TAT, or SRT beforehand because I wanted my responses to be spontaneous and authentic. When it came to the Group Testing Officer (GTO) tasks, I performed them with ease, actively participating in the Command tasks and showing my leadership skills.

My Experience with No Frills Academy

The turning point in my journey came when I joined No Frills Academy in 2020. Under the expert guidance of Col. Nehru, I diligently practiced all activities and worked continuously for 4-5 months. The personalized coaching and feedback I received at NFA were instrumental in helping me identify my weaknesses and turn them into strengths.

My efforts bore fruit when I received my first recommendation in January 2021 for CDS OTA, securing AIR 32. Unfortunately, I was medically disqualified. I didn’t let this setback deter me; I went on to appear for the AFCAT entry and got recommended there as well, but was again medically disqualified. Despite these challenges, the teachings at NFA led to yet another recommendation for the Coast Guard.

The Role of NFA’s Individual Guidance Programme

I attribute my success to the individualized guidance I received at NFA. Before joining, I had no clear idea of where I was making mistakes. The regular interactions with Col. Nehru allowed me to gain valuable insights into my performance. For instance, Col. Nehru pointed out that I was lacking in general knowledge, so I started reading newspapers regularly to improve. Over time, I became more disciplined and organised, which significantly boosted my confidence.

The individual guidance program at No Frills Academy is truly a game-changer. It provides tailored coaching that addresses your specific needs, ensuring that you are well-prepared for every aspect of the SSB interview process. If you are serious about becoming an SSB recommended candidate, I highly recommend enrolling in this program. It made all the difference for me, and it can do the same for you.

Conclusion

My journey to becoming an SSB recommended candidate was long and challenging, but with the right guidance and unwavering determination, I was able to achieve my goal. If you are an SSB aspirant facing similar struggles, remember that persistence and the right coaching can lead you to success. No Frills Academy’s individual guidance program, led by Col. Nehru, is an invaluable resource that can help you navigate the complexities of the SSB interview process and emerge victorious.