SHASHWAT GUPTA RAY
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PANJIM: Dr Amey Damodar Walke, a graduate of Goa Dental College and Hospital, has made his State proud by securing All India Rank (AIR) 3 in the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Master of Dental Surgery (NEET MDS) after scoring 778 out of 960, making him one of the highest-ranked dentistry candidates in Goa’s history.
Dr Walke belongs to a distinguished family of dental surgeons from Bicholim, which includes his father Dr Damodar Kamalakar Walke and elder sister Dr Tejaswini Walke-Pokle.
He attributed his success to a year of dedicated, full-time study, marking a significant shift from his previous attempts.
“To be very honest, I the exam was not excellent, but okay. So it was a very pleasant surprise that I managed to score this much. But I worked hard for the whole year, putting an average of 10 hours daily into studies,” Dr Walke said.
He enrolled into online coaching classes. He focused on solving multiple choice questions (MCQs) and reviewing previous years’ papers.
“I had attempted this exam twice before, but those attempts were unsuccessful because I did not take the preparation seriously and failed to study the material fully. This time, I devoted my time entirely to the exam. I stepped away from work to focus on my studies from home. While my parents were initially concerned about me staying home all day, they eventually realised the immense effort required to succeed in this exam,” he said.
Determined to do well this time, Dr Walke dedicated his entire time and energy to the preparation. To make this attempt count, he enrolled with Ace Achievers Dental Academy’s online classes.
“My preparation methodology this year was significantly more structured and focused on active learning. I enrolled in the Academy’s online programme and strictly adhered to their subject-wise schedule. Given that the exam is a computer-based, Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)-focused assessment, I shifted my strategy away from traditional textbook reading. I dedicated an average of 10 hours daily to solving MCQs and reviewing previous years’ papers,” he said.
Furthermore, he prioritised reviewing his incorrect answers to identify and strengthen weaker topics using the resources and notes provided by the Academy.
“I feel my hard work paid off. It has shown that I can achieve things when I take the effort and put myself into the grind. I was underestimating myself initially. I was just hoping to pass this exam, but as my preparation went on, I gained more confidence,” he said.
His family background in dentistry played a crucial role in his success.
“I owe a great deal to my father and sister, whose support was invaluable. While my preparation was largely theory-based, their experience helped me navigate the practical aspects of my studies,” he said.
Dr Walke is now waiting for the counselling process to begin and is reviewing his college options.
“I have shortlisted a few clinical branches for further study and, with advice from my seniors, I expect to reach a final decision by the time counselling starts,” he said.
In his message to the current NEET aspirants, he urged them to believe in themselves and continue to work hard, despite the controversies surrounding the NEET-UG examination.
“Despite recent controversies that may make it difficult to trust the system, do not lose hope. If you remain honest and diligent, your achievements belong to you alone, and no one can take that away from you,” he said.
Amey’s father and senior dental surgeon, Dr Damodar Walke said that during preparation for this particular exam.
“Amey worked very hard and very rightly he has been rewarded by the Almighty. Getting 3rd AIR in NEET MDS exam is a great achievement. He has made Goa proud. And as parents we have no words to explain our proud feelings,” he said.
And I wish that in future also he achieves more success for upliftment of the dental fraternity and serve the society.
