Hrushikesh’s PMP Success Story: A Journey of Dedication and Achievement
The PMP certification symbolizes excellence in project management, demonstrating knowledge and expertise. Hrushikesh, a recent PMP credential holder, recognizes the crucial role this certification played in advancing his career. The PMP certification became pivotal in his skills of managing projects across the UK’s islands and addressing the challenges of an agile environment. In this article, we explore his background, motivations for PMP, his certification journey, and the invaluable insights he has to offer to aspiring PMP candidates.
Motivation and Background: From Project Sites to PMP Aspirations
Hrushikesh Kittad
Hrushikesh’s journey towards PMP certification is a tale of inspiration and determination. His motivation can be traced back to his father, a Project Manager. Spending time on project sites with his father, he gained insights into the world of project management. Understanding the importance of the PMP certification for career development and recognition, he decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and pursue this esteemed credential. When Hrushikesh was doing his bachelor’s degree, he recognized that he lacked both the required education and experience for the PMP. So he took the initial step by obtaining the CAPM certification. After gaining the required experience to do PMP, he set out on his PMP certification journey.
Hrushikesh’s background is as a Digital Construction Coordinator in Scotland, working on projects across the UK Islands. His role involves managing projects in an Agile and Hybrid environment, emphasizing team coordination and communication.
PMP Study Plan & Strategic Approach: The Road to Success
When Hrushikesh was doing CAPM, he supplemented his comprehension of project management concepts by studying iZenBridge’s educational videos on YouTube. At the beginning of his PMP journey, Hrushikesh committed to a 90-day PMP exam preparation. He utilized study resources such as iZenBridge Live classes, the E-learning System and PMBOK.
Hrushikesh’s study strategy was methodical and unwavering. He meticulously covered each chapter from PMBOK 6, solving mock tests for every section and persisting until he achieved a perfect score. Following this, he tackled full-length PMP mock tests available in the iZenBridge E-Learning System, applying the same rigorous approach. Hrushikesh shared that the roadmap offered by iZenBridge’s Lead Trainer, Saket Bansal, played a very important role in guiding his preparation journey
Mock Tests and Self-Assessment: Ensuring PMP Exam Readiness
Hrushikesh attempted topic-wise questions and 5 full-length mock tests. These tests played a significant role in shaping his preparation and boosting his confidence. The scenario-based questions in the mock tests challenged him to think holistically and apply knowledge effectively. As the exam date approached, Hrushikesh noticed consistent improvements in his mock test scores. This progress further reinforced his confidence in exam readiness.
Also, Hrushikesh realized that time management would be crucial during the exam. To tackle this challenge and handle any related anxiety, he adopted a strategic approach. He solved mock tests using a stopwatch, emphasizing the importance of not rushing through the questions. When in doubt, he wisely flagged answers for review and made sure to fully understand every word within each question. This approach contributed to his successful time management during the real exam.
Challenging PMP Topics: Embracing a Beginner’s Mindset
Hrushikesh faced challenges with various topics, notably struggling to grasp the Agile concepts outlined in the PMP content. `His solution to overcoming these difficulties was to adopt a beginner’s mindset, approaching each topic as if he were new to Agile and project management.
His guidance to PMP test-takers facing challenging subjects echoes this approach, stressing the importance of embracing a beginner’s perspective, prioritizing learning, and adapting to the approach of understanding the subject matter.
Key Takeaways & Valuable Insights: PMP Preparation Reflection
In retrospect, Hrushikesh highlighted the significance of Scope, Cost, Integration, and Resources in his preparation. He also noted the benefits of the Kaizen approach from the mock tests.
As for what he might have approached differently, Hrushikesh didn’t have any specific changes in mind, suggesting his preparation strategy worked effectively.
PMP Exam Day: A Mix of Emotion Experience
On the day of the PMP exam, Hrushikesh’s feelings were a mix of excitement and nervousness. He saw this day as an opportunity to make history within his family, representing a significant milestone in his journey. While there were initial concerns about potential internet issues, he was relieved to find that the exam went smoothly.
Post-Exam Reflection & Valuable PMP Advice
Hrushikesh’s post-exam moments were filled with tears of joy, and his family celebrated his success. For aspiring PMP candidates, he offered a wealth of advice:
- Understanding PMBOK: Fully comprehend the concepts and procedures outlined in the PMBOK Guide.
- Diverse Study Materials: Use various quality study materials, including PMP prep books, online courses, and practice examinations.
- Systematic Study Plan: Create a systematic study plan with a timetable to ensure continuous progress.
- Practice Exams: Practice exams are beneficial for getting acquainted with the format and identifying areas requiring further study.
- Real-World Application: Apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios, especially with situational questions.
- Formula Memorization: Memorize essential project management formulas, particularly those related to the critical path, cost, and schedule.
- Steady Progress: Avoid cramming and spread your studies over several weeks or months for better retention.
- Weak Points Focus: Prioritize your weaknesses, as the PMP exam covers many project management topics.
- Language Understanding: Pay attention to the language used in exam questions.
- Relaxation Techniques: Practice relaxation techniques, get a good night’s sleep before the exam, and arrive at the testing centre early.
- PMI Code of Ethics: Familiarize yourself with the PMI Code of Ethics.
Hrushikesh also emphasized the importance of solving calculation-based questions like Critical Path, NPV, and Earned Value, as they are scoring questions. Regarding leveraging PMBOK6 or PMBOK7 topics for exam preparation, he couldn’t provide insights on PMBOK7 as he hadn’t gone through it. He recommended immersing oneself in agile principles and values, particularly in the Agile and People domains, to better prepare for the PMP exam. Lastly, Hrushikesh praised iZenBridge’s “PMP Exam Roadmap,” which he found instrumental in guiding his preparation journey and recommended it to others. Hrushikesh’s PMP success story is a testament to dedication and effective preparation strategies, offering valuable insights and advice to future PMP aspirants.
Hrushikesh’s story shows that working hard and planning carefully can help you earn a PMP certification. He began by understanding how important project management skills are, and he eventually passed the PMP exam. If you’re on a similar journey, Hrushikesh’s advice is simple: stick to a study schedule, practice with test questions, and stay confident during the exam. With determination and a clear plan, you can also achieve your PMP certification and open doors to exciting project management jobs. Let Hrushikesh’s story inspire you as you work towards becoming a successful project manager.
If you aspire to prepare for the PMP certification exam, consider enrolling in our comprehensive program. Our course is more than just a means to attain the 35 contact hours required; it’s a complete solution designed to guarantee your success on your very first attempt at the PMP certification exam. This program will guide you through a deep dive into the exam content, help you chart a clear roadmap for your preparation, and ensure mastery of the essential knowledge and skills across all three PMP exam domains, covering various development life cycle approaches
I really appreciate the support from Saket and all Izenbridge staff in accomplishing the PMP.