Daijiworld Media Network – Delhi (MS)

Delhi, Feb 7: Not everyone prioritizes financial gain in their career pursuits. Ayush Goel's decision to forsake a lucrative Rs 28 lakh job offer to pursue a career as an IAS officer exemplifies this truth.

Born to parents who owned a grocery store in New Delhi, Goel attended Rajkiya Pratibha Vikas Vidyalaya, where he received education in Hindi medium. Despite his humble beginnings, his ambition led him to pursue higher education. He graduated with a degree in economics from Hansraj College in Delhi and furthered his studies at IIM Kozhikode in Kerala.

Following his academic achievements, Goel secured a job as an analyst with JP Morgan Chase & Co during campus interviews, with an impressive annual salary package of Rs 28 lakh. This was a cause for celebration for his parents, who had taken a Rs 20 lakh loan to fund his education.

However, Goel's stint with JP Morgan was short-lived, as he made the decision to leave the corporate world behind and embark on the rigorous journey of preparing for the UPSC exams. Without the aid of coaching or guidance, he dedicated himself to self-study, spending eight to ten hours every day immersed in his preparations. Online resources, including videos and study materials, proved invaluable in his quest.

In a testament to his dedication and perseverance, Ayush Goel cleared the UPSC exams on his first attempt, securing an impressive rank of AIR 171. His story serves as an inspiration to many, underscoring the notion that there are pursuits in life that hold greater value than monetary gain.