Be realistic

Getty Images/iStockphoto | Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto I finished B.Sc. Agriculture in 2023 and am working in ICAR on contract. I don’t want to continue here. I prepared for the state PSC exams but could not make it. What else can I do? Pravalika Dear Pravalika, Why do you want to give up this job: is it administrative, repetitive, offers limited growth, or are you feeling burnt out? Moving on from a job that drains you is a healthy decision but weigh the pros and cons, given the current job market. With regard to the State PSC exams, failure is not a reflection of your competence since the exams have few seats and are highly competitive. You have a highly specialised degree that is in demand outside conventional research labs. You can explore stable government careers such as IBPS Agriculture Field Officer (AFO), NABARD Grade A Officer, or technical and management roles in FCI and FSSAI, which offer transparent and faster recruitment. In the private sector, FMCG companies, agrochemical and seed MNCs recruit agriculture graduates for procurement, product development, technical support and field management. Agri-tech startups also value graduates who can bridge technology and farmers. If you want to move into corporate leadership, an MBA in Agribusiness Management from institutes IIM-Ahmedabad (FABM), IIM Lucknow (ABM), IRMA, or MANAGE is an excellent option. I am in the first year of an Integrated M. Tech in Software Engineering. I have good coding skills and enjoy it, but am not good in academics. What should I do to future-proof my career? Dheshie Dear Dheshie, While the tech industry is shedding the weight of low-skilled, rote-learning coders, individuals who genuinely love building things, solving puzzles, and learning continuously will see an incredibly rewarding time. Your coding skills will put you ahead of a vast majority of students who chose this field just for the pay cheque. Tech companies care more about what you can build than your ability to memorise a textbook. Shift from a Coder to a Problem Solver. Focus on System Design and Architecture, and pay attention to Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA), Operating Systems and Database Management Systems (DBMS). Learn how to connect applications to databases, secure them, deploy them on cloud infrastructure like AWS or Azure, and monitor performance. Maintain an active GitHub profile and showcase projects that solve real problems. Build AI-augmented projects; don’t fight AI, leverage it. Start solving problems on LeetCode or HackerRank. Focus on internships and projects with corporate research labs, tech firms and deep-tech startups. Finally, strengthen your technical communication, presentation and project documentation skills. I am in Class 12 and want a career in aviation. Which is better: cadet pilot programmes or the CPL route? Name withheld The Cadet Pilot Programme is a structured route offered by major airlines in partnership with international flight schools. Selection is highly competitive and includes written tests (Maths, Physics, English and aptitude), psychometric assessments, the Compass/Symbiotics test, and a final interview. It typically costs ₹85 lakh–₹1.1 crores. However, a job is guaranteed only if you complete every stage of training. Failing repeatedly can mean leaving the programme with significant debt and no job. The CPL Route offers greater flexibility. You choose a DGCA-approved flying school, clear five DGCA ground exams, and complete 200 flying hours. This costs around ₹65–75 lakhs. While earning the licence is achievable, securing an airline job is the bigger challenge. Graduates compete with thousands of other CPL holders, and hiring depends on industry demand. For now, focus on Physics, Maths, and English, as these are essential for the DGCA computer number. Before investing in coaching or flight training, undergo a DGCA-authorised medical examination to ensure you meet the strict medical standards. I am 25 and have a B.Tech Civil Engineering and a diploma. I am working in a government job but the role involves coping with political pressure. There is no work-life balance or respect for the individual. I want to move into Mechanics especially Automotive. But my core is civil. I don’t want to leave this job without another in hand. What can I do? Chandrahas Dear Chandrahas, It takes immense courage to acknowledge that a stable government job is draining your mental health, self-respect and personal life. Pivoting from Civil Engineering to Automotive/Mechanical Engineering is possible but, because the foundational principles differ, you need a targeted strategy to bridge the gap. The fastest and most realistic route is through Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) and Simulation. Learn through online courses or weekend certification programmes and complete CAD software courses. Master CATIA or SolidWorks, followed by Ansys or HyperMesh. Look for reputable weekend or evening PG diplomas in Automotive Engineering, EV Technology or Tool Design that accept B.Tech graduates. Take advantage of the Electric Vehicle boom by gaining a certification in EV Powertrain or Battery Design. You could also explore heavy machinery and infrastructure equipment or pre-engineered buildings and industrial steel structures. Build a digital portfolio showcasing your CAD models and simulations. Optimise your LinkedIn profile and highlight your analytical skills. Finally, apply to engineering service providers such as Tata Technologies, KPIT, Altran and Infosys Engineering. 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.thehindu@gmail.com with the subject line Off the Edge Published - July 18, 2026 07:30 pm IST