A young woman from Naruvamoodu village near Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala has inspired many after securing the 57th rank in India’s prestigious Civil Services Examination. Sreeja G.S. achieved this success through determination, disciplined study, and strong faith.
Sreeja prepared for the examination in a small unfinished room in her home. The room had poor lighting, which made studying difficult. Using her savings of ₹2,500, she bought white cement and paint and, with the help of her father, painted the walls to make the room brighter for studying.
She studied at Little Flower School in Vellayani, New Higher Secondary School in Nellimoodu, and St. Mary’s School in Pattom. Encouraged by her teachers, she decided to aim for the civil services. Later, she completed both her undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Madras Christian College in Chennai.
During her preparation, Sreeja followed a strict routine. She reviewed lessons daily and made detailed notes from newspapers, which helped her during the interview stage. She had also made a strong decision to attempt the Civil Services Examination only once.
Her father, Jayakumar, who studied only up to Class 9 and works as a daily wage labourer, played a key role in supporting her education despite financial struggles. Sreeja also credits her faith for helping her stay strong during difficult moments. She regularly prayed the Rosary, read the Bible, attended Holy Mass, and spent time in Eucharistic Adoration.
On the day the results were announced, she held a Rosary gifted by her parish priest and entrusted everything to God. Sreeja says faith, hard work, and perseverance helped turn her dream into reality.
