I am in Class XII and confused about my career. I am really good at maths and physics. I sometimes think that I will do well if I take up science and at other times I think that I should study management. What scares me is that my elder brother, who is finishing his engineering degree, is just as clueless about his career path. I don’t want to face the same thing. What should I do?

It is good to know that you are good at physics and maths. I presume that you plan to seek admission to an engineering course or some other science course. Do not let the fact that your brother is clueless and confused discourage you; you might not be the same. Everyone is different and each person’s journey is his or her own. At this point, it is best to focus on your own journey as it will essentially be a reflection of only your growth, not anybody else’s. The questions you need to ask yourself are: just how much you enjoy maths and physics and how good you are at these two subjects. Studying in a good engineering college has its own advantages in terms of offering you a great opportunity to learn problem-solving and refining your quantitative as well as networking skills. If you are still in doubt, you could consider doing your bachelor’s degree in maths because that will give you the opportunity to go into one of several fields. No matter what you choose, base it only on your own preferences.

Shivani Manchanda has master’s degrees in career counselling and child development. She has been counselling about opportunities in India and abroad since 1991. Mail your queries to telegraphyou@gmail.com with Ask Shivani in the subject line