Meet Avani Mishra, all-India topper of Company Secretary exam

First impressions are always deceptive. Take, for instance, Bhopal's Avani Mishra. When you first meet her, she comes across as a regular girl-next-door, bubbling with enthusiasm and energy. But when you are told she's India's youngest Company Secretary, you curse yourself for not taking her seriously earlier. And when she tells you that she topped this year's All India Company Secretary Examination, the shocked look on your face is unmistakable. Excerpts from a chat with Avani.

Apart from being an all-India topper, you have also become the youngest to qualify the company secretary (CS) exam at the national level. What is your success mantra?

I started preparing for the CS just after getting admission in the National Law Institute University (NLIU). I cleared all the three stages in my first attempt, and that’s why I could clear my exam at the age of 19. More than studying for long hours, I chose smart learning. I kept myself away from any kind of distraction from social media too.   

You are a model and a regular student. How hard did you work to achieve this?

It was a little tough for me to manage regular studies with the CS exam preparation. But it’s not very tough to clear the CS exam. I prepared for the exam online under the guidance of Company Secretary (CS) Monika Goyal from Noida for 30 days and I am happy that I passed my exam with great success. I do modeling occasionally so it never disturbed my studies. 

Most people think that the CS exam needs more theoretical approach than practical. What do you think?

It is a myth that the CS exam is boring and hard to crack because it is more theoretical. I cleared the exam with the new syllabus. It is one of the most balanced examinations where students need both theoretical as well as practical approach to clear the exam.

You are pursuing law. How would clearing the CS exam help in building your career?

To prepare for the CS exam, I read corporate law. This qualification will help me in building good career in the corporate world. After completing my law, I want to work in a corporate house.

Whom do you give credit for your success?

My family, especially my parents, who gave me an environment conducive to study. Monika Goyal also played an important role in my achieving the first rank.

What will be your advice to youngsters preparing for the exam?

Be patient and maintain good temperament while going through the nine-day rigorous schedule of the exam.