Tough job weather in the US

Dear Vijay,

It is good that you have started planning your next step, having six more semesters to complete. Keep up this level of focus. Another good sign is that you are aiming a high GPA. It is very important that you maintain this throughout. Browse through the GRE (www.gre.org) questions and even try the mock tests through the internet. This will give you a fair idea whether you would need coaching or if you can prepare yourself by self study. Along with a high GPA, having a high GRE and TOEFL score is necessary to get into a good university in USA.

Dear Sir,

I have completed my bachelors in biotechnology, genetics and biochemistry with an aggregate of 79 per cent and my Class 12 aggregate is 52 per cent. I want to pursue a Masters in the US in Biosciences. Could you guide me through the application process? How do I choose the university and application procedure? If not the US, which other country would you suggest that would offer good education with better job opportunities?

Aspiring Student
 
Dear Aspiring Student,

I presume that you have completed a three-year degree in these subjects. It is remarkable that you have done well and taken distinction, despite not performing well in Class 12. With this qualification, you cannot get admission in US universities as they require 16 years of education. With the present qualification you can aim at universities in the UK, Australia etc. Most challenging career opportunities in biosciences area are in the field of research. Even with a Master’s qualification in this field you would be mostly working in survey, data collection, analysis and collection of information, supporting research people. Hence job opportunities are limited everywhere. These days getting a job abroad, even after completing a Master’s there, is very difficult. Visa regulations are also not conducive. Alternatively, you can complete your Master’s in India and aim to get into a second Master’s in the US after writing GRE and TOEFL. During the Master’s there, which will be of a shorter duration than normal, you can search for ‘research fellowship’ to pursue your doctoral studies with research. This widens your job prospects whether  abroad or in India.

The author is the Director of Banjara Academy and co-ordinator of Helping Hand. Send your queries to: Studying Abroad, DH Education, Deccan Herald, # 75,MG Road, Bangalore-560001, or email us at: [e-mail]