Do you feel uncertain of a career option? Do you lack the freedom to choose a subject that you really want to pursue? Do you always feel low on self-confidence? Are you constantly doubting yourself? A Q&A column by Nandini Raman, practising counsellor and trainer, to assuage your doubts.
I am a final-year B.tech student and have got a placement offer. However, I am not interested in it. I have always been interested in painting and shading. But I am unsure about a future in it. What opportunities do I have and are there reputed institutes where I can enhance my skills? – Vishnu Lasya Marthala.
Dear Vishnu,
I understand that you have a placement offer today post your B.Tech. Do you agree that many in your own batch are perhaps not lucky to have landed one? What have you done with painting and shading, so far? Is it a mere hobby, or have you witnessed success with art to a level that you can make it a profession? Certainly enrol into an art class and work on enhancing your skill set. Keeping it an active interest, however, by being merely romantic about it, is not the best decision, at this juncture. Thirty one million educated Indians are unemployed, according to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy’s March 2018 report. You certainly don’t want to add a number and become a statistical entry.
It was my childhood dream to become a pilot. I am a science graduate, willing to pursue a career in aviation. I was hopeful of becoming a proud woman pilot until I heard from many people that it is an expensive course. I am holding myself back despite my love for planes. Is there any other course that that I can pursue, to join the civil aviation department, that also provides scholarship? — Aysha Ibrahim
Dear Aysha,
Becoming a pilot undoubtedly is an expensive dream, but certainly attainable. Please read the (recent) inspiring story of Captain Ankita from Mumbai, who faced several financial difficulties, multiple failures and opposition from her family, but never gave up on her dream of becoming a pilot, after seven long years. A PPL or a CPL certification in India could cost up to ₹18-20 lakhs. The Government of India provides scholarship under the OBC category for this course. You have to clear the Director General of Civil Aviation exams with a 70%, in addition to your course work. IDo write to the DCGA (http://www.dgca.nic.in) and get more information on the payment schemes and scholarships available. Other aviation careers available are across Ground Staff, Air ticketing and Cabin Crew.Good luck.
I am a B.Sc computer science graduate currently preparing for competitive exams — banking and SSC. There is extreme competition and I am worried about my future. Should I continue with this or pursue more courses that will equip me for better future? — Karmjeet Singh
Dear Karmjeet,
Don’t let anxiety and negative thoughts stop you from trying. Confront your fears and put your best foot forward. Prepare well, attempt the exams and the results will decide what the future holds. Of course there is crazy, unreal competition, but that doesn’t mean you won’t get a job. Do your best and forget the rest. B.Sc computer science is a good course that is in demand today. Artificial intelligence, machine learning, call centre jobs, computer-aided designing, computer science engineering, software design, development, hardware engineering, web designing or development, MSc in computer science, MCA, MBA have all good prospects and can help you get a good package in the IT sector.
I am an undergraduate doctor preparing for Pre-PG exam. I am excited and interested in working hard and giving it all I can, but I am unable to study alone and constantly require a library-like environment which is not available in my current city. Every time I sit alone, I keep postponing and neglecting my work. Please guide me. — Tanmay Bajpai
Dear Tanmay,
You say that you are excited about taking these exams, but are unable to follow your schedule due to studying alone, not having a conducive study environment and procrastination. How then, do you intend to take these exams? I realise that you may not have anyone in your city to study with, as you mentioned that you need company. But it is time to know that from now on, it is going to be ‘to each his own’. You are on your own. Take up the responsibility and start working on it. Step up, make your own plan, schedule your work, syllabus, maintain timelines and try and stick to them. Do your best to follow a schedule and stay consistent. Time is ticking, and these excuses will not result in adequate preparation for your exams. Make things happen.
Disclaimer: This column is not a substitute for long-term therapy. It is merely a guiding voice. Some issues may need medical intervention.
The author is a practising counsellor and a trainer. She will answer questions sent to eduplus.thehindu@gmail.com. The subject line should be: ‘Off the edge’.