Q I was good in studies all through school and am now a student at a reputed engineering college. While I always scored well in the science subjects and cleared the engineering entrance exams with flying colours, I am not enjoying college. For possibly the first time in my life, I don’t feel like going to class. Somehow, I don’t care very much for the subjects that are being taught and have completely lost interest in studies. My parents are very keen that I complete the engineering course but I think I already hate it too much. What should I do?

Name withheld

There are several things you can do to address this situation. First, I suggest that you negotiate with your parents and see if you can convince them to support your decision to quit engineering and study something else. Unfortunately, a great many parents would insist on completing the course. If that is the case, you need to spend this time in college exploring other interests and finding the one thing that you want to study or do. Meanwhile, you have to ensure that you get reasonable grades in engineering so that other doors can open when the time is right. It would be really sad if you found your perfect career but could not take admission to the relevant course because you did not have the minimum CGPA required.

It is really important that you use the time in engineering college to explore and identify some of your interests that might have been latent so far. Your college might have a science or technology club you may like to join. You could also explore becoming a member of AIESEC or Rotaract, each of which can bring you in touch with different people and help you grow your network. However, do not throw yourself so wholeheartedly into extra curricular activities that you do not study enough to pass this course. Because that is something you have to do, since completing the degree is non-negotiable.

If you think another subject may be of more interest to you, you could check out the many online courses available which can help you learn a new subject. Explore other productive ways to channelise your talents. It is just this one life you have so make the most of all your talents and keep developing them. You will one day find the subject and career that is right for you. Do not give up.