I am studying in Class XII in the science stream. I don’t want to study medical or engineering but am interested in biology. What should I take up in college that will have good prospects going forward?
Olina Kundu Hartley Higher Secondary School, Calcutta
Biology is the study of life and living organisms, encompassing a wide range of fields beyond general medicine. As a biology student, you can explore areas such as biotechnology, environmental science, microbiology, genetics, molecular biology and food technology. In addition, the pandemic has highlighted the importance of biosciences, making this field even more exciting to study and conduct research in.In India, limited undergraduate programmes are available for certain courses such as molecular biology or genetics. However, pursuing a BSc in biology, biochemistry or related fields will also lead to opportunities for specialisation in molecular biology or genetics at the postgraduate level.
On the right track
I have taken up science in Class XI. My subjects are physics, chemistry, maths and computer science. I want to be an assistant loco pilot (ALP). I am preparing for WBJEE and JEE. Can you help me by telling me the path to becoming an ALP?
Sayan MondalSantragachi Kedarnath Institution, Howrah
To become an assistant loco pilot, you need to apply for and take the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) exam. The Railway Recruitment Board is responsible for recruiting candidates for various posts in the Indian Railways. The RRB exam has three stages — a written test, a physical efficiency test and a medical exam. The written test has questions on topics such as general awareness, arithmetic, general intelligence and reasoning. You can refer to previous years’ question papers and other study materials to prepare for the exam. Once you clear all the stages of the exam, you will be sent for training at a railway training centre and then posted as an assistant loco pilot in one of the railway divisions. You will need a diploma or degree in engineering only if you do not sit for the RRB exam right after Class XII.
Find her interest
qMy niece has appeared for Class XII board exams this year. She is in the science stream. I want to know what the trending professional graduate courses in India are. Could you help? She is thinking of taking the JEE but other than engineering, what can she opt for? She is not much interested in computers.
Licha Sarma GoswamiCalcutta
Once she finishes Class XII, there are several courses (apart from engineering) that she can consider, including architecture, industrial design or product design, data science, forensic science or actuarial science. Additionally, psychology, UI/UX design, fintech and economics are becoming increasingly popular, offering diverse and exciting job prospects. Ultimately, it is crucial for her to select a course and career that aligns with her interests, values and skills. To do this, she should take time to reflect and compile a list of relevant courses and jobs, research them thoroughly,and ultimately select a degree programme that aligns with her interests and goals.
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
