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GMAT 30 > Blog > Critical Reasoning > Darshita Devnani (645) Success Story – A Year In the Making

The GMAT 645 less traveled: How Darshita Devnani’s tasted GMAT success from 535 to 645

This is the story of Ms. Darshita Devnani, who went on to dominate the GMAT in her third attempt. In the competitive world of GMAT preparation, every student’s story is unique. Today, I want to highlight the inspiring GMAT Focus prep journey of one of my students, Darshita Devanani, who recently scored an impressive 645 on the GMAT Focus edition, securing a stellar 100th percentile on the GMAT Quant section. Her story is one of determination, resilience, and sheer hard work.

The Beginning: A Solid Profile but Unfulfilled GMAT Aspirations

Darshita’s GMAT Focus prep journey with me began in 2023 when she was referred by another successful student of mine, Vaibhav Sinha, who had achieved a 96th percentile on the GMAT. Darshita already had a respectable score of 680 from her first attempt, but she wasn’t satisfied. Having previously enrolled in a reputable coaching institute, she felt the support didn’t meet her expectations. Determined to cross the coveted 700+ mark, she reached out for private tutoring.

With a strong profile bolstered by extracurricular achievements, Darshita knew that improving her GMAT score would enhance her chances of cracking top B-schools. However, as we began our sessions, it became evident that despite her initial 680, she had significant conceptual gaps and an aversion to taking full-length mock tests—a critical component of my prep strategy.

The First GMAT Re-Attempt: A Test of Resilience

Our initial sessions comprised 3-4 sessions, each tailored to address her specific weaknesses. With only a few weeks left before her re-attempt, we focused on targeted improvements. Unfortunately, life threw its challenges her way. Darshita fell ill for 10 days and struggled to balance her demanding job with her GMAT prep. The outcome? An underwhelming 640, a score she decided to cancel.

But this setback didn’t deter her. Instead, it fueled her resolve. Darshita was determined to rise stronger.

The Turning Point: Planning and Persistence

We reconnected in October and November to devise a comprehensive roadmap. With her busy schedule, I advised her to revisit the recordings of our sessions and allocate focused study time. We aimed for a December test date, scheduling the “Final Stretch” sessions to perfect her approach. During this phase, Darshita committed to writing at least 6-8 full-length mocks—a strategy I consider non-negotiable for conquering test-day anxiety.

Despite a grueling schedule, Darshita’s commitment was unwavering. She wrote two full-length mocks every week, and we analyzed each one thoroughly, often on the same day. These analyses were exhaustive, diving into every error and exploring alternative approaches. Even when sessions extended beyond their scheduled time, she remained focused, and I ensured she received the support she needed—without any additional cost.

Overcoming Challenges: Staying the Course

The journey wasn’t without its lows. Some mock scores dipped into the 500s, which could have been demotivating. However, Darshita’s never-give-up attitude kept her going. Together, we prepared for every scenario, including potential test-day glitches. She even visited the test center in advance to familiarize herself with the environment, leaving no stone unturned.

The GMAT Focus Triumph: A Well-Deserved Victory

Darshita’s dedication paid off. She scored a remarkable 645, with a 100th percentile in the Quant section. Her journey from 680 to 640 to a dip in mock scores, and finally to this incredible achievement, is a testament to her perseverance and hard work.

Lessons from Darshita’s Journey

  1. Consistency is Key: Regular practice and mock tests are non-negotiable for GMAT success.

  2. Stay Resilient: Setbacks are a part of the journey. Use them as stepping stones to success.

  3. Plan and Prepare: A well-structured roadmap can help balance demanding schedules with effective preparation.

  4. Seek Guidance: Personalized support can make all the difference when overcoming specific challenges.

A Message to Future Aspirants

Darshita’s story reminds us that success is not just about talent but also about grit and determination. To all GMAT aspirants, remember that every hurdle you face is an opportunity to grow. With the right mindset, guidance, and effort, you can achieve your goals.

Congratulations, Darshita! Your journey inspires us all, and I have no doubt that your next steps will be as successful as your GMAT story. Wishing you all the best for your B-school aspirations!

 

The sensational story of Pranav Srimal – score improvement from V35 to V44 (98th %ile), from 690 to 750 (98th%ile), and then through to his dream at ISB