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Studying in india

Dear Sir,
I have completed a Diploma in Electronics and Communication with a 59 per cent aggregate. I would like to join the police force (Karnataka state). As my family is financially backward, I have decided to pursue a job in engineering later and focus on getting a job in the police force. Please advise.
Anonymous

Dear Anonymous,
It is nice to know that despite your financial difficulties, you wish to serve society through the police service.  However, the minimum qualification even to join as a sub-inspector is graduation.  Hence, you will either have to study an engineering degree (joining at second year) through lateral entry (if you are working, you can join an evening college), or join any degree through an open university system while you pursue a full-time job.  At the same time, ensure that you maintain physical fitness, improve your communication skills, and keep abreast of current affairs and general knowledge.  At this juncture, the most suitable job will be in E&C, which you are qualified for.

Dear Sir,
I am currently doing a Diploma in Pharmacy. I am in the second year of the course. I would like to get information on jobs in the Defence forces. How do I apply for jobs in the Army, Navy or Air Force? What are the requirements for the same?
XYZ

Dear XYZ,
With a Diploma in Pharmacy, you may not get a job in the Air Force or Navy. You can apply for limited openings as a jawan in the Army, based on your Class 10 marks. Otherwise, most openings in the military services require a minimum of a Class 12 pass score with First Class, and many profiles require a science subject.  Those who are brilliant and competitive can apply to the UPSC for the NDA (National Defense Academy) exam, which is a school that trains cadets to become Commissioned Officers.

Dear Sir,
I am a Second PUC (Science branch) student and I am interested in studying Automobile Designing. I am passionate about vehicles and I am very interested in learning more about its design aspect. How can I ensure this is a lucrative career to pursue? I plan to study Automobile Engineering and then specialise in Design at the Master’s level. What is your expert opinion?
Srinag

Dear Srinag,
Automobile design is definitely a thrilling and challenging field, but only for those who have creativity and strong analytical skills. To start with, you may certainly take up a BE in Automobile Engineering (or even a basic engineering like Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics or Computer Science etc.) and start sharpening your design and computer skills.  Ask an expert from the design field to evaluate your talent as a creative person, and only then take the next step.

Dear Sir,
I am a second PUC student. I want to do a B.Tech in Electronics. Is this a good field? Or should I pursue Mechanical Engineering instead of Electronics? Which are the best institutes that offer this course and how do I apply to these?
Anonymous
Dear Anonymous,
BE and B.Tech are only different names for a 4-year engineering degree course used by various institutions and they are essentially the same. If you are good at Maths and sequentially-oriented person who prefers computer and desk work, then you may opt for Electronics.  If you are more of a hands-on person with analytical and spatial skills, then Mechanical Engineering will be better for you.  Scope is equally good in both fields, and your success will depend on your inclination and aptitude. If you are sure you have a deep interest in engineering, backed up by the necessary talent and aptitude, then you may appear for the various entrance exams. It is already too late for IIT-JEE and AIEEE, and the last date for CET is April 5, 2012.

Dear Sir,
I am a Class 10 student and I am worried about my future plans. My parents insist I pursue a career in medicine where as I feel that I am cut out for a job in research. Where can I study a course in genetics and research? And which exams should I sit for?
Shrinivas

Dear Shrinivas,
The advantage you have is that there are two more years before you actually apply for your medical or research course. At this juncture, you may take up Science, preferably PCMB, and then weigh your two options — either completing an MBBS and then going after a research-related field, or going for Pure Sciences at institutions like IISc, IISER, IIT, etc., and subsequently specialising in Genetics. You can prepare and attempt the Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) exam.  Details are available at the website: www.kvpy.org.in