Interest, strength, passion and ambition should be the basis for choosing a branch of study while the selection of a good institution should be based on its faculty, infrastructure, placements and alumni network.
This advice was given by speakers at a seminar on “How to choose the right engineering college” organised by The Hindu in association with Manipal University, here on Saturday. The speakers, who included K. Suryanarayana, Lead - Corporate L&D, TCS; Naresh Dubbudu, CEO, Gyanville Academy and B. Kishore, Placement Officer, Manipal University, presented a holistic view of the course, throwing light on the skills the industry looks for in engineering graduates.
Mr. Kishore explained that interest was the key factor in selecting the branch and that students should not blindly follow the trend. Careers that students want to pursue at a later stage and research interests should be kept in mind while choosing a course. But he also cautioned that selecting the right college to pursue the right course was important. Brand name, infrastructure, course content, on-campus opportunities, internship opportunities and alumni network are as important as the course itself.
Mr. Suryanarayana cautioned students against choosing a career for monetary gains, or simply because it was a ‘cool and easy’ job. Communication skills, interpersonal skills, technical skills and self confidence are critical parameters in achieving success in either a job or business, he said.
Mr. Dubbudu focussed on non-IT careers, the skills needed and the opportunities available.
