From Carrying Bricks to Carrying the Nation’s Pride - Akashdeep’s ACC Journey

“Some stories don’t begin in air-conditioned rooms , they begin on dusty roads with dreams bigger than circumstances.”

Roots in Faridkot: Where It All Began

Raised in Faridkot, a humble village in Punjab, Akashdeep was no stranger to hard work. With both parents working as labourers, he helped them in their work while attending school in Punjabi medium under the Punjab Board. It was in these formative years that his resilience began to take shape. A scholarship changed everything. It allowed him to pursue his 11th and 12th in Chandigarh, his first taste of a larger world.

Dreams of Uniform: The NDA Attempt and Beyond

After 12th, Akashdeep took a year off to prepare for the NDA exam. Here, fate introduced him to Kunal Sir, who trained him without charging a rupee, recognising his potential and determination. Though he didn’t clear his first SSB attempt, Akashdeep’s resolve didn’t falter. He joined the Indian Air Force as an Airman (Group X) and his dream simply evolved. His eyes were now set on the Army Cadet College (ACC).

SSB Preparation During Air Force Service

Balancing preparation with duties wasn’t easy. The biggest hurdle? English, a subject he had only encountered in Class 11. Slowly, with consistent practice, he improved his reading and writing skills. In his first ACC attempt, he reached the conference round, but English remained a challenge. A pivotal suggestion from a friend,“Bhai, R2R join kar le” , became the turning point.

Training with R2R - The Game Changer

He focused intensely on improving his communication skills, enrolled in speaking courses, and joined R2R’s screening, psychology and interview preparation courses, which turned out to be game changers.He practiced:

• Writing 100–150 pictures, preparing 3–4 themes per picture and getting them reviewed by           R2R mentors.

• Completing TATs in under 3 mins 20 secs, leaving enough time to mentally prepare for                 next TAT image.

• Participating in mock interviews to build composure.

Second Attempt: Clearing ACC 131

In his second attempt, Akashdeep walked in with a calm mind and a confident smile.                 “This time, I went to enjoy the process. I had done the work, now it was time to trust myself.”    He aced the interview, particularly the psychology round, and credits his preparation with R2R and the constant motivation from peers and seniors in the Air Force.

Biggest Challenge

Communication! "I used to take leave to attend speaking classes. The Air Force’s regular briefings also helped.” Akashdeep calls communication the toughest hill, but also his most rewarding climb. Through R2R's curated courses, consistent speaking practice, and real-time feedback, he found his voice.

A Message to Aspirants

“Be consistent, seek guidance and when the moment comes, don’t fear it, enjoy the process."  Akashdeep’s story is proof that language barriers, rural backgrounds, and financial struggles can be overcome. With the right guidance, a growth mindset, and relentless will, dreams take flight.

Explore curated programs on SSB psychology, interview skills and communication building designed for aspirants from all walks of life. 

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