I applied for Technical Graduate Course 119 and got a SSB call very soon. I went for the interview scheduled at Selection Centre South, Bangalore. On the reporting day there were 303 candidates who had come for the interview. After documentation we were asked to be prepared for the screening test to be held the following morning. I appeared for the screening test and did well in the intelligence test and PPDT. Eventually I was screened in along with 29 other candidates.

The next day we had Psychology tests followed by my interview which was scheduled to be held on the same day. I did the tests well and followed my basic instincts and kept track of time so that I attempted most of the questions. The coaching I underwent at Shankar’s SSB Academy, Salem along with the valuable ideas and advice given to me by Lt.Col. (Retd.) P. Balasubramanian helped me in a very special way to answer all the situations and pictures in the most straightforward and honest manner.

The interview lasted for about 25 minutes to which I gave honest replies due to the introspection that was achieved during the several mock interviews conducted at Shankar’s SSB Academy, Salem. I was able to speak confidently and express my thoughts in a clear and vivid manner. There were two officers present during my interview but I was questioned by only the interviewing officer.

The next day we had the GTO tests in which I participated well and gave good ideas and help to my group whenever needed. I spoke well during the lecturette and was appreciated by my group. I was given a tough task to solve during my command task which I was able to do comfortably well due to my previous experience at doing various PGT’s, HGT’s and obstacles during my coaching at Shankar’s SSB Academy.

The last day was the day of conference and I was confident that I would get selected this time. During my conference I was asked about my stay and experience at the SSB venue. The conference concluded and the results were declared. I was happy to find my chest number called out and I was extremely happy at the outcome of the interview.

This article on my SSB experience might be written a bit late but it gives me a sense of pride and gratitude to be writing this article as a Gentleman Cadet at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. The extensive and result oriented approach followed at Shankar’s SSB Academy along with the robust and lively interactions I had with Lt. Col. (Retd.) P. Balasubramanian definitely paved the way for my success. It helped me realize my strengths and develop on my weaknesses. I will be passing out of the academy as a Lieutenant in June 2015.

Wishing all budding warriors and Shankar’s SSB Academy all the very best in this noble service to the nation.

Jai Hind.

T/7650 GC Michael John Bennis

Poonch Coy, Cariappa Bn

Indian Military Academy, D’dun.