How is Life After a Degree in India?
The journey post a degree in India can be as varied as the individuals who embark on it. It largely hinges on one's personality, priorities, and the path chosen after completing this prestigious engineering qualification.
Many students leverage the high-paying job opportunities available, thereby easing their path in life. However, financial success isn't always the only lens through which to view life For some, higher studies remain a priority, requiring them to focus on competitive exams like the IIT JEE or other similar qualifications.
Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Another choice that is gaining traction in the tech-savvy ecosystem of India is starting one's own venture. This could range from a technology-based startup to any business idea that can be materialized. While the road to success is fraught with challenges, the rewards often outweigh the risks. Many start-ups fail, yet the learning experience is invaluable. Some succeed, and even those who don't end up gaining vital experience that can be applied elsewhere.
The decision to start a venture can be a defining moment in one's professional life, opening doors to a multitude of opportunities. This section can include real-world success stories and insights from entrepreneurs who embarked on this journey.
Case Study: A graduate who founded a startup in the artificial intelligence space, sharing the journey, challenges, and how the experience shaped his future career trajectory.
Personal Experience: My Journey
My story is an intricate tale of choices, challenges, and perseverance. I hail from Guwahati in Assam, a city located in the far east of India. My initial plan was to move to Kota, Rajasthan, for intensive preparation for the IIT JEE after my class 12 exams. The 2000-kilometer journey posed significant logistical challenges, requiring over a year to convince my parents to let me move.
However, my first stint in Kota didn’t work out as planned. I struggled to acclimate to the local culture and the harsh local weather conditions, leading to frequent sickness. Due to this health scare, my class 12 studies suffered significantly, and I had to return to Guwahati.
After a much-needed recuperation, I made the decision to return to Kota, albeit against my parents' wishes. The next year was a challenging but formative period. In the midst of my second attempt, I fell seriously ill, further derailing my plans. This period, dubbed my "mess year," left me mentally and physically drained.
Despite these setbacks, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I managed to prepare my meals and manage other aspects of my life independently. Unfortunately, I wasn't successful in cracking the IIT JEE, but I did well in AIEEE and WBJEE, securing a good rank. The concurrent counseling dates for these exams required that I make a choice, and I had to decide which path to pursue after my degree.
In reflection, my journey included diverse experiences including the possibility of pursuing an MBA as a career. Drawing from my previous independent learning and the rigors of , I opted to complete my MBA in 2013, which led to campus placements. The transition from the structured academic environment of college to the independent and often high-pressure world of work was stark, requiring me to prioritize my individual responsibilities and make critical life choices.
Key Life Lessons: Balance needs to be maintained between spending and saving. Independence and decision-making skills are paramount in the workplace. No decision is inherently right or wrong; it’s the action that counts.
Closing by sharing my story is not merely recounting my experiences but serving as a reminder that facing and overcoming challenges is crucial for growth. Life is a blend of professional and personal challenges that can be navigated with the right mindset and approach.