SHILLONG, Apr 7: Wangaal Lama of Gorkha Pathshala Higher Secondary School, who secured the top position in the Meghalaya Board of School Education SSLC examination with an impressive 585 marks, described his achievement as “dream-like” and rooted in self-belief and perseverance.

Speaking to the media, Lama shared his initial reaction, saying, “When I got it, it just feels like a dream… I was so nervous, I didn’t even check my results.”

He attributed his success to consistent hard work and confidence. “You should never think that you are less than anyone… The foremost thing is that you have to believe in yourself because if you don’t believe in yourself then who else will,” he said.

Offering advice to fellow students, Lama encouraged a balanced approach to life and learning. “Work hard for it. You have to own your skills, you have to improve… Don’t be a bookworm, you should have a whole life experience,” he remarked.

While he is yet to decide on his future path, Lama expressed faith in finding his purpose. “God will help me find my purpose in life… Don’t think of me as a topper. I just studied. I know that thousands of people were expecting this but fortunately I topped it,” he said.

He also emphasized the importance of responsibility and sincerity in all pursuits. “Whenever you do something, fulfil your responsibilities… Do it wholeheartedly and keep in mind that you are doing this because it is a duty and because you want it,” he added.

Reflecting on his performance, Lama said he was content regardless of the outcome. “The results didn’t matter to me because what I performed I did with my whole heart. No regrets,” he concluded.