A Journey Rooted in Resilience: Damini’s Inspiring Academic Triumph

Discipline Over Dependency: How Damini Excelled Without Coaching

In an era where coaching classes are often deemed essential for academic success, the journey of Damini Singh Brar stands as a compelling example of how self-belief, discipline, and perseverance can triumph over convention. At just 26, the Sanjauli native from Himachal Pradesh has cleared some of India’s most competitive academic examinations, entirely through self-study, without enrolling in any formal coaching.

In December 2024, Damini passed the UGC-NET in Psychology on her very first attempt. Following this achievement, she went on to excel in PhD entrance examinations for both IIT Delhi and IIT Kanpur, securing top ranks in the written papers and interviews. Notably, she attained an All India Rank 1 at IIT Kanpur. Furthermore, she cleared the written test for the PhD programme at NIMHANS, Bengaluru, and was shortlisted for the interview there as well. Her academic foundation was built at Lady Shri Ram College, Delhi University, where she pursued English Honours. She later specialised in Applied Psychology at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, one of India’s most prestigious social science institutions. Her academic brilliance was evident early on; she topped the Class 12 board examinations in the Shimla region.

In addition to academic accomplishments, Damini has cultivated extensive real-world experience in mental health. After training at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC), Shimla, she assumed the role of a full-time psychologist at ZorbaCare Rehabilitation Centre, Pune, where she focuses on de-addiction and relapse prevention using mindfulness-based interventions. Professionally, she conducts independent counselling sessions applying cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, behavioural techniques, and trauma-informed care. This hands-on work not only enriches her theoretical knowledge but also anchors it in the practical realities of mental health support.

Damini has further enhanced her expertise through diverse field internships. At Jagruti Rehabilitation Centre in Mumbai, she engaged with institutionalised patients, while at CORO India, she supported Muslim minority women dealing with trauma induced by systemic deprivation and violence. During the academic year 2022–23, she worked with the Akanksha Foundation, offering psychosocial support to students in Mumbai’s BMC schools, particularly those from marginalised backgrounds. There, she addressed the effects of developmental trauma and neglect, and even designed resilience-building workshops for schoolchildren.

What sets Damini’s story apart is not only the breadth of her achievements but also her unwavering commitment to self-learning. Relying solely on her discipline, planning, and passion, she prepared independently, without coaching, private tuition, or expensive resources. Despite her modest background, her father working as a sanitation inspector and her mother as a homemaker, she rose to earn a place at some of the most prestigious academic institutions in the country. Her journey is a shining reminder that perseverance, purposeful study, and service-driven ambition can break through even the most formidable barriers to success.

Editor’s Note

The story of Damini Singh Brar is a powerful example of how determination, focus, and self-discipline can lead to outstanding achievements without reliance on formal coaching. Her academic journey, marked by top ranks in some of India’s most competitive examinations, reflects not only her intellect but also her resilience and commitment to learning. What makes her success particularly noteworthy is the balance she has maintained between academic excellence and meaningful real-world experience in mental health care. Her ability to combine theory with practice sets a strong example for aspiring students in any field.

According to Skoobuzz, Damini’s journey is a reminder that consistent effort and self-belief can open doors to even the most prestigious institutions. Her story will surely inspire countless others to pursue their dreams with courage and clarity.