ALUMNA OF THE YEAR 2008

Ms. Rongsenlemla Imchen, Class of 2001
OFFICER TRAINEE (INDIAN FOREST SERVICE)
At the first glance, she comes across as a pretty, shy girl which is true; however, that approximation seriously comes short of describing her considering the steadfast determination that lurks underneath the cool, modest exterior. A dedicated and brilliant student, she would lead the class in academics, and not surprisingly, graduated 1st Class with Botany Honours in 2001 and passed M.Sc. in 2003 with specialization in Cytogenetics & Plant Breeding. The year 2008 marked the attainment of her childhood dream - She cracked the Indian Forest Service Examination!

Graduates of this college have been having a good spell during the past ten years in U.P.S.C. Examinations, having secured two I.A.S. and four I.F.S. positions. Similarly, many have been successful in other examinations for various other professions, however, this year the Award is decidedly hers. We intend to acknowledge the other luminaries appropriately in future. An excerpt of e-mail...

Illume: What has motivated you to join civil services considering the prevalent misconception that every science  student should become either a Doctor or an Engineer?
Alem: I have always wanted to be in the All India Services. It was my aim and ambition since my childhood. I was interested in wildlife, forestry and the issues related with forest and I had taken up botany in my       graduation. Thus, the IndianForest Service was a natural choice for me. I took my first attempt in 2006 with Botany and Agriculture as my optionals. I went up to the Interview stage but could not get through. I made it to the final list in my second attempt which I took in 2007.

Illume: What, would you say, is the determining factor(s) of your success?
Alem: I believe that in this era of intense competition, hard work is the most essential ingredient of success.    There can be no substitute for this. Success to me is earnest relentless efforts and right decision at the right time. Further, patience and perseverance are other important qualities that go a long way in contributing to success. This is so because, UPSC is one of the most toughest and unpredictable examinations. When I did not make it in my first attempt, I sat down and tried to understand as to where I went wrong. This analysis also helped me to overcome my deficiencies in my second attempt.

Illume: Would you like to convey a message to the Kohima Science College Fraternity?
Alem: I would like to mention here that I owe my success to Kohima Science College. Apart from the fact that I have wonderful memories of my college which I cherish, it is here that the foundation for my entry into the All India Services was laid. I take this opportunity to thank my lecturers and my friends for their support and cooperation.
Our college has always produced distinguished and successful civil servants. I take pride in the fact that I am a part of the alumni of this prestigious institution. I wish all the students of our college a promising career and prosperous future. And thank you very much for having chosen me as the Alumna of the Year.

Illume: You are welcome. Thank you, Alem for having spared the time to speak with us. Good Luck in your future endeavours.