In Conversation with Adil Umar, 9th in Punjab, PMS 2017-18

“JWT was helpful during my interview preparations as I read interview experiences of successful candidates the mag regularly publishes.”

Jahangir’s World Times (JWT): First of all, please tell us about your educational background?

Adil Umar (AU): After completing matriculation and FSc (Premedical) from my hometown, Qila Didar Singh, I earned BSc (Hons.) in Agriculture Sciences and MSc (Hons.)/MPhil in Agronomy from University of Agriculture, Faisalabad.

JWT: How much helpful did you find Jahangir’s World Times (JWT) in your preparation for PMS exam?

AU: I found JWT full of content related to competitive exams. It was even more helpful during my interview preparations as I read interview experiences of successful candidates the JWT regularly publishes in all its issues.

JWT: What, in your opinion, is the key to getting through compulsory papers of PMS exam, especially the one of General Knowledge?

AU: I think aspirants should read at least one recommended book for each subject and then cover remaining part of the syllabus from other sources including notes, the internet and magazines. As for as General Knowledge paper is concerned, I suggest them to gather reliable data from online sources, newspapers, GK books and World Times magazine.

JWT: How answers should be written to get maximum marks in the written part of PMS exam?

AU: In my opinion, a candidate must crack the question and write answer that is absolutely to the point. To make a difference, a candidate must support the answer with maps, flowcharts and diagrams.

Read More: In Conversation with Almas Sabeeh Saqib, 18th in Punjab, PMS-2017-18

JWT: What is the key to scoring high in English Essay paper?

AU: Actually, a brief yet comprehensive outline and a very impressive introduction play a key role in making your essay worthy of awarding high score. After cracking the topic, write an outline in such a way that it could be comprehended easily. Practice as much as you can in writing introduction. I believe a candidate who can write a good paragraph can also write a good essay. Support main body of the essay with authentic figures and quotations. At the end, give a simple yet creative conclusion that fully commemorates the stance you have taken in the preceding paragraphs.

JWT: What was your strategy for the General Knowledge paper?

AU: I collected authentic material on different topics like literature, geography, history, etc. from online sources, newspapers and GK books.

JWT: Should there be some word limit kept in mind while writing answers?

AU: I don’t think there should be a word limit. Just write what has been asked in a comprehensive manner. However, time limit must always be kept in mind while writing the answers.

JWT: Is it better to attempt optional papers in Urdu or one should go with English only?

AU: It depends on a candidate’s understating of the language he wants to opt for. I found it difficult to write some technical words in Urdu and, hence, followed English as a medium of writing. Moreover, it is also easy to find the required study material in English language.

JWT: How one should choose Optional Subjects?

AU: This decision should be based on an aspirant’s educational background and areas of interest.

JWT: Who deserves the credit for your success?

AU: The credit for my success goes to my mother who always supported me unconditionally, and lifted me up during hard times.

JWT: As interviewers usually grill the interview candidates, how did you manage the situation?

AU: I managed the situation by giving simple and relevant answers. During my interview preparation at WTI, I learned how to remain calm while facing difficult questions.

Advice for Fresh Aspirants

Take the printout of the syllabus. Read at least one recommended book for each subject and cover the remaining content from other sources. Remain consistent and just never lose hope.

My Interview Experience

It was a pleasant, rewarding and learning experience for me. I was the last candidate on that day. Mr Chairman started with offering me tea and asked two or three questions about my family and educational background. Mr Nasir Durrani asked few questions about my current job, reforms in criminal justice system and Prime Minister’s Green and Clean Pakistan initiative. Mr Seerat Asghar asked multiple questions on Agriculture and Punjabi. Another member asked a few questions from Geography. Honourable Chairman then ended up with asking few opinion-based questions on Agriculture and Current Affairs. I remained respectful, calm and engaging throughout the interview.