As the BISE has announced results for intermediate, most of the students are running from pillar to post for relevant guidance related to different institutes and universities.

Unfortunately, students of our country live in an academic environment, which severely lacks career counseling. Moreover, our course books are so narrow in scope, that the students are unable to choose a proper career path.

Since I was once in the same age group, I would like to share some of my experiences, which might be useful to other students.

Choosing the right discipline

If you have managed to score a good enough percentage to get admissions in any government engineering university or medical institution, go for it. Avoid paying a hefty fee, no matter how financially strong you are!

People argue that our education system is weak and the standard of education is a question mark in government institutes. That might be the case. But have you ever wondered how many Albert Einsteins and Isaac Newtons any private institute has managed to produce so far? I don’t mean to be offensive to anyone; my effort is just to make you realize the ground reality.

Go for a generalized graduation degree, instead of specialization at bachelors level. Pursuing a Mechanical Engineering degree is a much better approach then having an engineering degree specifically in Textile, or an MBBS over B. Pharmacy. Having a generalized degree makes you more fit for a wider variety of jobs.

Selecting the right institute

While the statistical figures portray a rosy picture about an institute or success of its graduating students, ground reality of is quite different. It is important to assess the absorption factor of graduates in the job market. Consider the example of textile graduates. Nearly all of them have changed their lines by getting a good MBA degree or going abroad for studies in some other domain.

Avoid politics

We often hear about biasness based on religion and ethnicity. While that might be a reality in some places, it is not true for all. One should focus on their studies. Thinking about politics undermines your abilities. Excel in what you can do. If you are fit for a job, it will be awarded to you, sooner or later. Join only those societies which are purely academic and don’t pursue any political agenda during your student life.

The Aptitude Test panic syndrome

The admission procedure of every student turns into a ‘saga’, no matter how much one scores in intermediate or A-levels. Things should be taken seriously, but stress should be avoided. Focus on grabbing admissions at government institutions the very same year you have passed your intermediate. Private institutions are always open. Some offer admissions bi annually, others annually. Government institutions deduct your marks if you apply a year later, as their priority are young students. The point is, if you loose a year or so while trying for any government institutions and end up getting admission in a private institution later, it does not mean it will be a negative in your career path. Loosing a year is not significant, but you must not loose your enthusiasm towards studies.