Explore your options

Do you feel uncertain about 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 to assuage your doubts

I am an accountant and have over six years of experience. I would like to pursue higher education in accounting and taxation. However, I am not interested in regular programmes such as ICAI, CMA, CPA’s or even master’s. I would like to learn something new. Kindly guide me on what programmes are available in the country or abroad. — Naveen

Dear Naveen,

Diploma in Taxation (accounting and commerce, one-year programme), imparts theoretical and practical knowledge of direct and indirect taxes, financial accounting and auditing. It is a career-oriented course offered both as a full-time and a correspondence course. It is available at various government universities and private institutions. The fee ranges between ₹5,000 and ₹2 lakh. In addition, many specialisations are available online from premier international institutes on web platforms such as coursera.org, udemy.com, and so on. For studying abroad, you need to research and shortlist the course of your choice first and then read the fine print on the admission criteria, aid and scholarship details to decide. Good luck.

I am 22 years old and I have completed my B.Sc. Due to some reasons, I have wasted two years. I have started to prepare for the civil services exam at home now. Please guide me on how I can prepare? — Sneha Ammu

Hi Sneha,

Understand the UPSC pattern and procedure first; go through the UPSC syllabus thoroughly. Start reading books and watch video lectures online on basic subjects such as politics, history, geography, and so on; read the newspaper regularly; chart out a preparation timetable and follow it strictly. Make sure it is realistic and doable; enrol for a good test series and get answer writing practice. Stick to your schedule, get some exercise and enough rest. Lastly, think and stay positive. All the very best to you.

Disclaimer: This column is not a substitute for long-term therapy. It is merely a guiding voice. Some issues may need medical intervention.

The writer 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’