I am 22 and have a B.Tech. in Computer Science. I want to pursue MBA in Finance as I prefer it over coding. However, I am unable to score well in the CAT. Should I opt for an average college or take the CAT again? Onkar
Dear Onkar,
Evaluate retaking the CAT (and other exams) by honestly introspecting why you have not done well. Was it a lack of consistent preparation, difficulty with specific sections, test anxiety, or a combination of problems? Identifying the root cause is crucial to improve. Take the exam again if you are willing to dedicate the necessary time and effort for another year of rigorous preparation. Focus and strengthen the sections in which you struggle. Take regular mock tests under timed conditions to simulate the actual exam environment. Analyse your mock test results thoroughly to identify areas for improvement and consider joining a coaching class or a study group for structured learning and peer support.
Explore other exams such as XAT, SNAP, NMAT, and IIFT. They have different formats and might suit your strengths better. Research the top colleges that accept these scores.
What is your definition of an “average college”? The factors to consider when choosing colleges are the location, the curriculum, the faculty experience, internship opportunities, placement statistics, the companies that recruit, the roles offered, and the alumni network. If you are hesitant about another year of intense preparation or if your assessment suggests only a marginal improvement in your CAT score, then go ahead and join the “average” MBA college.
I got a First Class with Distinction in M.Voc in Technology and Management Consulting and a first-class in my B.Voc as well. I have one year’s experience in Operations and want to continue in supply chain. I am considering an MBA in Operations or an M.Sc. in Supply Chain Management. Which would be more suitable? Enchante
Dear Enchante,
An MBA in Operations will cover core business functions such as finance, marketing, strategy, and human resources, alongside topics like production, process optimisation, quality management, and supply chain elements. The focus is on leadership and strategic decision-making within the operations function. An M.Sc. in Supply Chain Management is a more specialised and technical. It delves into the intricacies of the entire supply chain, including procurement, logistics, warehousing, distribution, demand forecasting, and supply chain analytics. The focus is on optimising the flow of goods and information across the entire network.
While an M.Sc. in Supply Chain Management can lead to excellent careers in logistics, procurement, and supply chain analysis, an MBA offers a broader path into senior management roles across different functions. Given your strong interest in supply chain and disinterest in research, an MBA in Operations with a strong focus on or specialisation in Supply Chain Management would probably be more suitable for you.
I have completed B.Sc. and M.Sc. Botany and am in the second year of Ph.D. Forestry. I don’t want to teach, and interest in research is also fading. What are my options? Kareena
Dear Kareena,
Is it possible for you to leverage your Botany expertise in different sectors such as environmental consulting, conservation and natural resource management, or horticulture? You could also use your scientific background to write articles, create content, or work with media outlets, museums or botanical gardens to explain complex concepts and create educational programmes. Policy and advocacy related to plant conservation, biodiversity protection, and sustainable development or Intellectual Property with a further specialisation (potentially a law degree or certification) could help you work as a patent agent specialising in plant-related inventions and biotechnology. Data analysis and GIS, project management, business and entrepreneurship (related to Botany) in sustainable agriculture or natural product development is another option.
I have done B.A. and M.A. History, M.Sc. Environmental Archaeology, and am currently pursuing an Integrated Ph.D., which will give me an M.Tech. (Research) and a Ph.D. in Earth Sciences. I am exploring career options outside academia. What are the career paths that might align with my background and skills? How can I build industry connections? Ritvik
Dear Ritvik,
Sustainability Consulting is a strong fit for your background. Your understanding of historical human-environment interactions combined with your Earth Sciences knowledge can help businesses and organisations develop and implement sustainable practices. You could advise on ESG strategies, climate risk assessment and adaptation, resource management and circular economy, sustainable supply chain management, environmental impact assessment (EIA), ESG analyst or specialist, climate change analyst or specialist, risk analyst with focus on climate or environment, policy analyst for sustainability or environment, and corporate sustainability.
Some specific skills you could further leverage are as a data analyst with focus on environment and sustainability, geospatial analyst or GIS specialist, Science Communicator or project manager for sustainability initiatives.
To build industry connections, attend industry-specific conferences, seminars, and workshops organised by local chapters of environmental and sustainability professional organisations, and TiE (The Indus Entrepreneurs). LinkedIn can also help identify and connect with professionals working in sustainability consulting firms and relevant industries. Engage and share relevant thoughts with leaders in the space and build your credentials. Reach out to people whose career paths you find interesting and request for brief interviews on their work, company, and how they got there. Explore opportunities and alumni networks of your B.A., M.A., M.Sc., and current Ph.D. programmes and of your institutions. Participate in online forums and communities related to sustainability and environmental consulting to learn from practitioners and make meaningful connections. Also consider pursuing short-term internships or pro-bono projects with sustainability consulting firms or relevant companies to gain practical experience.
Disclaimer: This column is merely a guiding voice and provides advice and suggestions on education and careers.
The writer is a practising counsellor and a trainer. Send your questions to eduplus.thehindu@gmail.com with the subject line Off the Edge
