The NEET Warrior

 "NEET Warrior"

PS: This write up is dedicated to all the parents, teachers and students who have appeared for NEET or are preparing for NEET.

 

The answer key of NEET (National Eligibility Entrance Test) was released yesterday. I sent a congratulatory message to one of my colleagues. There was a prompt reply, " Score is less, hope to get admission in a private college." 

Students who have scored high, or the students who have scored as per their expectation or those who have scored less, none seems to be satisfied with their performance in the exam. To keep the vibe positive, I replied “You are a parent of a NEET warrior. Salute your warrior.” The desired effect was palpable.

To become a doctor in our country, one needs to appear for NEET, which is a merit-based exam. Out of more than eighteen lakh students who appear only eighty thousand or so are able to get a gate pass to enter this medical world. Students usually start from ninth class. Exceptions are always there (some start from class sixth or maybe earlier). This requires persistence, dedication, endurance, sharp thinking, quick reflexes and a strong mindset to keep oneself motivated. Parents and teachers play a pivotal role. This is a difficult path and requires constant support (emotional is on top of the list) by parents. For teachers it a herculean task to maintain the tempo throughout the two -year duration. For parents, it’s their own child whereas for teachers, they have to keep well being of all their students in mind.

Students get used to rising up early, going for classes, preparing for tests and having a busy lifestyle. All parties, get togethers, vacations take a back seat. I always believe, ‘When the goal is big, so will be the sacrifices.” One should always enjoy their studies with the mindset to gain knowledge. Knowledge is a wealth which can never be stolen and always multiplies by sharing. Parents! please make sure that your child gets the message that he/she is not marks. The child is already under tremendous pressure to perform and enroll in a college of their choice.

Concluding this write-up (otherwise, it can stretch) with a request to change one’s mindset and see these students as NEET warriors and their parents and teachers as their army. Automatically, respect will generate from within. Let’s celebrate our warriors as the last  two years were taxing and have caused lot mental and physical stress. 

Hug your warrior and convey the message via clear conduct, “My child, you did your best,  and we love you unconditionally. You are not marks.” Filling up their emotional and psychological saucer is the need of hour.

Keep cherishing life, Keep loving life.

Juju.