Success Story: From Clearing Dirty Glasses as a Waiter to Cracking UPSC on 7th Attempt

Success often tests patience, perseverance, and determination. Such is the story of K. Jayaganesh, who cracked the UPSC Civil Services Examination on his seventh attempt, rising from humble beginnings to become an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer. His journey is an inspiration for youth from economically challenged backgrounds across India.

Humble Beginnings in Tamil Nadu
K. Jayaganesh hails from the small village of Vinavamangalam in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu. His father worked in a leather factory earning only ₹4,500 per month, a meager sum for the family’s needs. From a young age, Jayaganesh understood the responsibility of supporting his family while pursuing his education.

Academic Excellence Despite Financial Struggles
Despite financial hardships, Jayaganesh excelled in academics. He scored 92% in his 12th board exams, earning a scholarship and securing admission in Mechanical Engineering. Balancing studies with financial constraints, he took up part-time work while continuing his engineering education.

Balancing Work and UPSC Preparation
Even during engineering, Jayaganesh aspired to clear the UPSC Civil Services Examination. Initially, he took up private jobs but soon realized it was difficult to manage both work and preparation. Determined to focus on his goal, he quit his job and started preparing seriously for UPSC.

To fund his coaching, Jayaganesh worked as a waiter, often collecting dirty glasses, and also did billing at a cinema hall, earning ₹3,000 per month. Despite these challenges, he continued his preparation with unwavering determination.

Perseverance Pays Off
Jayaganesh attempted UPSC multiple times—one, two, three… up to six attempts—but could not succeed. Yet, he never gave up. He vowed to try a seventh attempt, even considering a possible ninth attempt if needed. His relentless effort and focus finally bore fruit.

In 2008, on his seventh attempt, K. Jayaganesh secured 156th rank in UPSC Civil Services Examination and was selected for the Indian Revenue Service (IRS). Today, he serves as an Additional CIT (OSD) overseeing Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and Puducherry.

Inspiration for All
Jayaganesh’s journey highlights the power of hard work, determination, and resilience. His story serves as a beacon of hope for students from underprivileged backgrounds, proving that with persistence, no dream is too distant.