Four mesmerizing ,yet tragic days
By Samrin Subha OmiWhen all of my friends were preparing to get themselves admitted into engineering or other universities, I ran mile after mile to be fit in the medical test of the Bangladesh Army. I got so far on that path. I cleared preliminary viva, medical, and written examinations and got recommended for ISSB(Inter Service Selection Board). From the other competitive examinations, ISSB is quite different as it evaluates a candidate not only based on academic knowledge but also one's overall personality, perspective as well as an insight towards life. Entering ISSB was a dream come true for me and a little hope as I got too close to my childhood dream. From the very moment I stepped foot into ISSB, a wave of mixed emotions engulfed me, perhaps it was anxiety along with excitement and determination.
At the very beginning, the first day was full of nervousness, however, our tests required a calm and stable atmosphere as there was a comprehensive screening test, where they evaluated the candidates on their academic knowledge, general awareness, and logical reasoning. The pressure was indescribable and everyone was so determined to prove themselves. Candidates who successfully cracked those tests only got the opportunity to stay four days and the rest of the candidates got back to their homes. At the the moment when the result of the screening test was announced, every candidate was praying for the best and my heart beat at its highest. That was one of the most remarkable moments of my life as I was among the lucky candidates and had the opportunity to stay four days. After that, we all had to sit for some psychological tests till 8 p.m. that day, and later on, we went to the candidates' block for sleep.
In addition, the second day was dedicated to the physical tests such as a 1-mile run, obstacle course and so on which were physically demanding. As I practiced hard for those tests, I successfully passed. After giving the physical tests in the morning, we were sent for the Deputy President Viva, one of the significant tests of ISSB. This viva is conducted by a high-ranked army officer who asks questions thoroughly about a candidate's whole life till then. My viva was a bit tough for me and I assume that I couldn't convince the officer with my answers that day. I still feel disappointed with my performance in that particular section.
Furthermore, the third day wasn't as busy as the first two days. There was a planning test and most significantly final medical test. That was more about to have patience as we all needed to wait all day long for those special tests.
Finally, the most anticipated day of my life arrived, accompanied with apprehension and angst. All of the candidates were looking forward to the outcome they sought and so do I. When the very last moment arrives, it brings the most unexpected news of all .Yes, I was rejected and all hope for that particular thing gone or more precisely vanished.
I went there twice, however, I couldn't get my desired outcome. It will be an evergreen life experience till death. Though sometimes those memories poke into my heart like a sharp knife, they taught me the significance of teamwork, quick decision-making, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. There is a saying that "Every cloud has a lining", here the best part is I learned to accept fate and prepare myself for the days ahead.
To recapitulate, my four-day stay at ISSB was an unforgettable experience that has left an exceptional imprint on my life. It was not a selection process; rather, it was a journey of various aspects that pushed me to my limits and taught me an immense amount of responsibility. To upcoming candidates, I would like to emphasize that the ISSB journey is about more than only selection; but rather a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
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