I am 21 years old and have completed my graduation in B.com(H). I have also cleared CA IPCC. Now, I am no more interested in CA, and I don’t want a desk job either. I don’t know what to do next. — Rajat Bisht
Dear Rajat,
Please introspect and probe into the real reason for your sudden dislike and disinterest in CA. A chartered accountant gives sound financial advice, audits, and provides trustworthy information about the financial records to a client/business. Financial reporting, taxation, auditing, forensic accounting, corporate finance, business recovery, insolvency, fraud assessments, accounting and systematic processes are involved in this. Does none of this interest you? If your answer is yes, then what would you like to do and study further? Maybe you could consider a MBA? However, please meet a career counsellor and get an in-depth assessment of your skill-set, before you join the next course.
I am 18 years old, and am pursuing my second-year of B.Sc in computer science. I couldn’t do engineering due to some reason, but I always wanted to study abroad (the U.S., the U.K., or any other country). I have heard that I can’t pursue M.Sc (computer science) in the U.S., as its institutions only accept 16 years of education. As my degree is a three-year course, I may not be eligible. What should I do to study abroad? Are there an other courses? I also want to know about scholarship facilities there. Please help. — Lalitha Akshintala
Dear Lalitha,
I love that you are doing your research and getting prepared up in advance. Yes, the U.S. has a four-year bachelor’s programme unlike India. Students who complete their master’s degree qualify to apply for MS in the U.S. Also, the admission requires some standardised, entry-level tests such as the GRE, TOEFL, GMAT, IELTS, MCAT and LSAT, amongst others, that are pre-requisites. A good idea would be to start identifying and shortlisting states, colleges and universities that offer the exact course of your choice. Read and check them in detail for international aid and scholarships offered. Start communicating with their admissions officer. Your profile/portfolio also needs to be impressive and it will be beneficial if it highlights credentials beyond academic skills. Hobbies, varied interests, community initiatives, internship reports, environmental support and animal volunteering or welfare activities, help a great deal. Good luck.
I am 15 years old and am in class XI. I want to become a space scientist in ISRO. How do I reach my goal, after class XII? Can I reach my goal through the IITs? — Bhanu Chandana
Dear Bhanu,
It is heartening to see young adolescents like you, have such a powerful vision and clarity for the future. I am assuming that you have opted for math and physics, and have a thorough knowledge of these subjects. Gaining admission into the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) is the easiest way to land in ISRO as a scientist/engineer. It is done on the basis of JEE Advanced scores. There is no direct exam.
ISRO often picks up graduates and postgraduate engineers from IITs, NITs and other reputed government and private institutions. So, a B.Tech in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, radio engineering, and engineering physics will help. Ensure that the academic record stays good throughout.
I am a computer science engineering graduate. Can I pursue MA in sociology and become a lecturer in the same, by appearing in SLET or pursuing M.Phil? — Sharmistha Sahoo
Dear Sharmistha,
You can certainly give your SLET as an engineering graduate, pursue MA in sociology, and become a lecturer. MA degree is open for all stream graduates. After completing your MA, NET/SLET, you can apply for the position of an assistant professor in colleges and teach sociology. M.Phil is not required, however, it will help you for further promotions as you climb the career ladder, in the choice of your institute.
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’
