CBSE Class 10 School-wise Topper Interview 2024: Harshit Minocha with 99.2% in Class 10

CBSE has released the CBSE Class 10 result 2024 on May 13, 2024, as online mode. Harshit Minocha came out as the CBSE Class 10 topper of 2024, boasting a remarkable score of 99.2%—a student of Manav Rachna International School, Noida. Harshit scored SSC- 98%, French 100%, Maths 99%, AI-100%. With a focus on time management and collaborative learning, Harshit could navigate his preparation smoothly and stand out in the CBSE Class 10 exam.

Harshit attributes his CBSE Class 10 success to balanced routines and supportive friendships. His strategy involved focused revision and regular breaks, alongside solving sample papers. Without coaching, he relied on his school's guidance. Stress was managed through positivity and enjoyable activities. His future holds aspirations for JEE Main and holistic development, echoing his school's values. Harshit advises juniors to focus on consistent, quality preparation and to seek support when needed.

1. First of all, congratulations on your performance in the CBSE Class 10 exam. Can you tell us something about yourself?

Harshit: Thank you. I must give credit to my school Manav Rachna International School for the way it has groomed me and made me, just another teenager, capable of this performance.

As any teenager, I love to socialize with my friends and talk to them. If I have learnt anything from Covid times, it is to cherish my interpersonal relationships with family and friends. I balance each day between academic and leisure time. This ensures that studies are incorporated in my daily routine and yet, I do not lose the opportunities to listen to music, paint or play the guitar.

2. What was your reaction after seeing the result?

Harshit: At first, I was struck by disbelief. Soon after, came the euphoria of contentment. My mind went to Mandela’s famous words: we are the sum total of all that has gone before. It was a poignant realization that my efforts had culminated into these results. My parents called me immediately to congratulate me. I think that was the moment it became real – that pride and joy in their voices.

3. Can you share your daily schedule and exam preparation strategy?

Harshit: Once again, my mentors at Manav Rachna International School, Noida deserve recognition and appreciation for honing into me, the significance of time management. I used to wake up around 10 AM daily. I know it may seem late but it was my comfort zone and willingly chose not to give it up. After freshening up and having my breakfast, I embarked on my academic journey for the day.

Rather than focusing on the number of hours I devoted to my studies, I prioritized revision of specific topics. I allowed myself frequent breaks to keep the mind fresh and alert. My parents allowed me to remain in touch with my friends. Despite what parents often belief, friends do not always distract us.

My friends kept me motivated as we coordinated study topics and supported each other. Once in a blue moon, we even scared one another with stories of one-upmanship about how many concepts we had already studied individually as well. To make my studies more engaging, I listened to music when solving questions.

4. Which books did you use during your exam preparation?

Harshit: My teachers always encouraged me to solve sample papers as a time-bound task after thoroughly revising all concepts. I used MTG sample question papers for Math and Science, and the MTG question bank for Social Science. I solved as many papers as I could. After all, practice makes perfect!

5. Did you take coaching for the exam and if yes, from where? What are the benefits of coaching according to you?

Harshit: My alma mater, Manav Rachna International School, Noida, offered me everything a learner could ask for – and I’m sure it continues to do so for each batch to hold its banner aloft. Thus, I did not feel the need to take any coaching for the Grade X Board Exam preparation. I relied on my teachers’ notes and online videos instead.

6. Did you face any difficulties during your preparation journey?

Harshit: My parents and I are indebted to my school and my teachers for walking with me, matching me step-by-step, on this path. Forgive the humour, but this is Noida, not Delhi – the roads paved by Manav Rachna International School, Noida for its students, are glide-worthy! My preparation journey was smooth and I did not face any major hurdles along the way.

7. Did you feel stressed sometimes during the preparation? If yes, how did you de-stress yourself?

Harshit: I maintained a confident and positive mindset throughout my preparation. My parents or teachers did not exert any undue pressure. Rather, they supported not only my endeavours but my methods, even when they were a bit wonky or out of the box. I treated the Board Exam and took it on D-day, just as any other assessment.

My teachers avoid making us feel stressed before any examination. I regularly went out with my friends and engaged in activities I enjoyed. I truly believe that no examination should limit the joy of life; otherwise, children will never see challenges as sources of positive learning and reinforcement.

8. How was your experience while appearing for the Board Exams?

Harshit: I had a very pleasant experience and even went out to watch a movie during my board exams. Examinations should be a way to evaluate our understanding of concepts studied and an opportunity to apply the skills learned. If you have that approach, any exam or challenge of life will become a learning opportunity – a horizon waiting to be reached and a milestone waiting to be crossed – all with a confident smile.

9. What were your subjects and among them, which is your favourite subject?

Harshit: Well, as a Grade X student, I studied all subjects usually roaming around in the labyrinth of the CBSE curriculum. My favourites were Maths and French.

10. Did you appear for any competitive or entrance examination?

Harshit: No, I did not. Unless you count competing with myself – I always challenge my mind and heart to surpass my previous achievements.

11. What are your future goals?

Harshit: I aim to appear for the JEE examination and give a noteworthy performance. Rather than targeting a specific college, I want to achieve a rank that allows me to choose any college or stream. I will continue to pursue my passions, my hobbies and I hope to become a better human being. One who is empowered with apt communication skills, a compassionate heart, a creative soul and a mind capable of critical analysis. Holistic development has always been the mission and vision of my school and I will continue to inculcate into my daily life, the skills and values I have learned at school. I want my parents and my mentors to be proud of me today, and always.

12. Any tips for the students who are going to appear in the exams next year?

Harshit: I want them to be relaxed and focus on their preparation. Preparation is not done overnight – it is part of every day and every hour of the Board year. It is both – subconscious and overt.

I would ask my juniors neither to procrastinate nor become obsessed with the examination result. As Lord Krishna says, we have to do our work – the result is in the hands of higher powers. Please help each other whenever you can and do not hesitate to ask for help when needed – sometimes, this help will not be academic, rather emotional support.

Please know that the board exam is just like any other assessment and you do not need to give up all that you hold dear. Consistent preparation and focus on the quality of the study time rather than the quantity or number of hours is the name of the game. You can reach the sky and beyond! Trust your school and your mentors – they are rooting for you. The finish line is just ahead and the crowd is waiting to cheer as you cross to your future.

Also check - CBSE date sheet Class 10