Aaarrrgh...:X

It was a fine morning. My preparation seemed a bit inadequate but then again what did you expect! All the videos and notices posted by the authorities about the rules and regulations had a profound effect on me(and scared me a bit to be honest!). We were not supposed to take breaks for any reason whatsoever and nor were we allowed anything into the exam hall. Yes, this is my experience of CAT-09. Why so late? Because we had all signed disclaimers that told us not to disclose any of the details. The embargo still stays but more of that later.

I had opted for the first session on the first day since I knew online discussions and experiences would break my nerves. Opting for Global Academy of Technology seemed logical as it's a 15 minute drive from my place. I was there well before the stipulated time and enjoyed some nice fresh air while waiting for everyone to start revising, again. In the meantime, I even managed to make a few friends! Time passed and finally our id's were checked and we were allowed into the examination hall. The process involved lots of smiling and very helpful staff. Personally speaking I was overwhelmed by the experience. So you would expect me to say "Hats off to the guys from Prometric and the IIMs for organizing it flawlessly". Well, no. You see there were a few problems and aftermaths.

First of all, there was a lot of effort in trying to maintain the "integrity of CAT". That meant lots of security checks and signing disclaimers mentioned previously. However, as in the case with most of the things, not everyone respects such diplomatic agreements. A couple of days into the exam and newspapers were flooded with articles telling us how questions were openly discussed on online forums and not to mention training institutes cashing in on the opportunity. To them, advertising their success meant more than preserving the sanctity of one of the world's toughest and most respected exams. Also, students on popular social networking sites don't realise that they have given others a superb advantage over themselves! Why is it like this in our country? When the so called "educated" cannot maintain a sense of diplomacy, what's the use of all those abbreviations following your name?

I however, respect the authorities and will not divulge any information regarding the papers. Instead, I would like to express my disappointment and anger to all those who cannot keep their mouth shut. This fiasco has put the "early bird"(the first few sessions) candidates at an inherent disadvantage. Although there is not much the IIMs can do to help us, I sincerely hope our voices are not given a dead ear. So, here is a request. If you are an IIM in-charge reading this and if you can help us, please do! Don't let money grubbing idiots ruin CAT!