I am currently in Class X. I wish to take up science in Class XI as I am interested in those subjects. My dream is to join the Indian Air Force and since the National Defence Academy (NDA) exams are now open to women as well, I have decided to sit for the exam after Class XII. What stream should I opt for? In case I fail the NDA tests, which colleges should I consider?

Sreya Chakraborty, Asansol

It is great that you want to join the Indian Armed Forces and serve the nation. And yes, the Supreme Court has recently passed orders that make it possible for women to take the NDA exams after Class XII. You will have to opt for science with mathematics in Class XI if you want to join through the NDA. Apart from the entrance exam, you will also have to undergo physical fitness tests.

There is another way out if you do not get through to NDA. You can appear for the Air Force Common Admission Test (Afcat) and an interview after graduation. Afcat is held twice a year, in February and August. Women can join the flying, technical and non-technical branches through Afcat. Remember, you need to be mentally strong and keep physical fitness levels high if you want to join the armed forces. So, you should have a regular exercise regime chalked out.

It is always good to think of back-up options. You can look at several courses and careers if you take up science with maths. Engineering, IT, architecture, actuarial science, design are all open to you. Science students can also apply for commerce or humanities courses. Since you are interested in flying, if you enrol in a flying school after Class XII, it could lead to a career as a commercial pilot.

Qualifications for a technical writer

I am keen to get a job as a technical writer in the IT sector. Should I pursue a bachelor's degree in journalism & mass communication instead of English?

Bipasha Halder, Calcutta

The requirement for technical writers has grown over the last few years with the increased demand for technological solutions and innovations — so it’s a great career option to look at.

A technical writer must have good writing and communication skills and a keen interest in learning about different technologies and software concepts. You will have to coordinate with the project or technical teams in IT firms and grasp software concepts and product knowledge. You will then have to translate this information into less technical and easy to read documentation.

Most companies are not particular about academic specialisation. So students from various areas such as history, English, journalism do get into technical writing. However, I believe you will have a slight edge if you were to do a BA in journalism and mass communication — as it will strengthen your writing, critical thinking, research and analytical skills. You should do a short certificate course too in technical writing — many are available offline as well as online. This will familiarise you with concepts and principles specific to technical writing and editing, and also strengthen your profile. The certificate courses are usually 2-3 months long, and you can take them in your second or third year of college. Keep yourself updated on software concepts, innovations and emerging trends in the technology space as well.

Nina Mukherji is a career counsellor and certified psychometric assessor. She conducts workshops in various areas for students. Mail your queries to telegraphyou@gmail.com with “Ask Nina” in the subject line. Don’t forget to add the name of your school or college and a contact number