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Uncertain about your career options? Low on self-confidence? This column may help

I have a Bachelor’s degree in English and want to pursue a Master’s from a Central University. What if I do not score enough on the CUET-PG exam? Also, what kind of jobs will I get? Karthik Dear Karthik, CUET-PG is now the primary entrance exam for most Central Universities for PG programmes and so prepare well. If you do not get your desired score, then you can apply to Master’s programmes in state Universities.

They have their own entrance exams and admission criteria. Some well-respected ones include Presidency University, Kolkata; Jadavpur University, Kolkata; University of Mumbai; University of Madras; and University of Hyderabad. You can also consider private universities such as Ashoka University, FLAME, Christ University, Jain University, and OP Jindal Global University.



Open universities like IGNOU could also be a good option if you prefer distance learning or need more flexibility. A Master’s in English opens up a variety of career paths with each requiring different skill sets and offering diverse work environments. To teach in a school, you will need to do a B.

Ed. To teach in a college or do research you have to clear the UGC-NET/JRF. Other options are content writing or editing for websites, blogs, social media sites, being a technical writer or a content creator for digital media, working with publishing companies as a proof reader, public relations, corporate communications and so on.

Which of these appeals to you? Do you enjoy teaching, writing, working with people, or research? Identify and build the skills needed for your desired career path. I finished my B.A.

in 2021 and have been preparing for the UPSC CSE, as I aspire to join the police. I don’t have any other degree or job. Should I study further or stay focused on the UPSC? Evaluate your situation objectively and be realistic about your chance of success in future attempts.

Identify your weaknesses and areas for improvement if you still want to try again but set a realistic timeframe. A gap of four years is a key concern with no other degree or job to showcase. This will limit your career options if you choose to move away now.

What about State Police Service exams or the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF)? Check the exam details online. What about an MBA or Master’s in Public Administration, Political Science, International Relations or a relevant subject that can enhance your resume? If you still feel confused, meet a career counsellor who will help you find out what your interests are. I am in B.

A. first year and want to be an Air Force officer (Flying branch). In class 12, I had PCB as subjects.

How can I achieve my dream? Pranav Dear Pranav, You will have to take the Combined Defence Services Examination (CDSE) conducted by the UPSC. If selected, you can join the Air Force Academy directly for training. If you are a member of the NCC Air Wing and have a C certificate, you can apply under the NCC Special Entry Scheme.

Requirements for Flying Branch are graduate degree (any discipline) with Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level or a B.E. or B.

Tech. You will have to clear stringent physical fitness and medical standards and pass the Pilot Aptitude Battery Test (PABT). Complete your B.

A, with good grades and cover the Class 11 and 12 Maths gap. This is non-negotiable for the Flying branch. Consider a short diploma or certificate course that covers basic Physics and Mathematics concepts.

If your college has an NCC Air Wing, joining it will provide you with valuable exposure to aviation and increase your chances through the NCC Special Entry scheme. Start preparing for the CDSE written exam. You will find practice materials online and in reputed coaching centres.

Keep yourself updated on the latest notifications and exam patterns. My daughter is in Class 7. She is talented but doesn’t enrol in any school-level competitions.

I do not know if this is due to a lack of self-confidence or shyness. Is this the right age to take her for career guidance? Varun Dear Varun, Career guidance can be considered when she is in Class 9 or 10 (14-15 years). But talk to her about her behaviour.

While it is common for talented children to avoid competitions, we need to understand what she is going through. Is it perfectionism, fear of failure or rejection, lack of self-confidence and low self-esteem or social awkwardness or just indifference to competition? At 12-13, children go through significant physical, emotional, and social changes. It is a time of self-discovery and developing their identity.

Talk to her about her interests and pay attention to what makes her feel engaged and energised. Focus on praising her effort and progress rather than the results. What is going on at school? What about her friendships? If she finds it difficult to open up to you, suggest meeting a competent therapist and foster an environment where she feels safe to express herself and make mistakes.

Support her in exploring different activities and hobbies, even if they are outside her comfort zone. Encourage her to participate in smaller events within her comfort zone and celebrate her participation and effort, regardless of the outcome. Be her cheerleader.

Disclaimer: This column is merely a guiding voice and provides advice and suggestions on education and careers. The writer is a practising counsellor and a trainer. Send your questions to eduplus.

[email protected] with the subject line Off the Edge Published - April 12, 2025 05:30 pm IST Copy link Email Facebook Twitter Telegram LinkedIn WhatsApp Reddit The Hindu Education Plus / careers / study abroad / higher education / students / universities and colleges / school / entrance examination / admission/enrollment.