Delhi University has completed three regular rounds of undergraduate admissions, but 13,433 UG seats are still vacant. According to the university’s latest spot-round vacancy list, the unfilled seats are spread across 1,160 college-course combinations
“We have a history of renowned political leaders; we hail from the lands of intellect. This university has nurtured multiple leaders, including Gulzarilal Nanda, Madan Lal Khurana, Mahadevi Varma, and many Chief Justices,” 23-year-old Priyanshu Vidrohi said
In Bihar’s Gaya district lies Patwa Toli, a village popularly known as the “Village of IITians." What makes it remarkable is the presence of IIT-educated engineers in almost every household. Every year, more than a dozen students from the village qualify for the IIT-JEE examinations
Jammu-born entrepreneur Onkar Singh Batra has added another remarkable achievement to an already extraordinary journey. From creating a website at the age of seven to developing a satellite at 16, Batra has spent much of his childhood exploring technology, entrepreneurship, and space
I have passed Class 12 (PCMB) with a state rank of 10 and have taken NEET 2026 and KCET. I want to pursue B.Sc. Chemistry but people say I should not do so because I have such good marks. I am also considering BDS or a B.Sc. Paramedical course
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I finished B.Tech in Chemical Engineering (8.5 CGPA) and have three years experience across EPC, oil and gas valve manufacturing and the automobile sector. I don't know what my niche is or how to grow into higher positions. I like to communicate and travel. Is there any course that is not too expensive that I can do? Saravana Kumar
Dear Saravana,
Have you considered moving into a Sales/Business Development role? It needs communication skills and, depending on the industry, you could be literally living out of a suitcase. Or with your credentials and experience, you could explore project management, field engineering or supply chain (technical procurement) management.
To identify your niche, self-assess and think about your past roles, What did you enjoy the most? Speak to your previous bosses and current manager and identify your strengths. Network with people on LinkedIn and send a connection request to people who inspire you and ask for a 15-minute chat to learn about their career path.
Depending on what you shortlist as a career shift plan, you can choose to work on specific certifications that are cost-effective and will provide you with credentials that will help you pivot. An Executive MBA is a one-stop shop for most of the roles. Choose the specialisation according to your niche. Develop software skills like Advanced Excel + SQL + Data Visualisation (Power BI/Tableau). These are invaluable in every industry.
I have completed the B1 level in German. To be a teacher of “German as a foreign language”, what are the courses I should pursue? Simran
Dear Simran,
B1 level is a solid foundation. However, to become a professional German teacher, you need to advance your language skills significantly and acquire formal teaching qualifications. Most employers and certification bodies require minimum C1 (Advanced) proficiency and C2 (Mastery). Pass the Goethe-Zertifikat C1 and then aim for C2 (Großes Deutsches Sprachdiplom). From the Goethe-Institut, consider the DUF (Deutsch Unterrichten Fürs) specifically designed for German teachers and ZDaF (Zertifikat Deutsch als Fremdsprache), which is a certification to teach German.
Also, pursue formal teacher training courses to learn teaching methodologies. A Master's degree is necessary to teach at the university level. So, consider a Master of Arts in German as a Foreign Language or Applied Linguistics. You will need a C1 certificate (like TestDaF or DSH) to get admission. In India, many central universities (like JNU, Delhi University, University of Hyderabad, EFLU Hyderabad) offer Master's programmes in German that include pedagogy modules.
Start gaining experience once you sign up for your teacher training course. Taking tuitions for A1/A2 level students is the best way to apply your learning. Or seek part-time roles as a teaching assistant in language institutes.
I am in Class 11 and passionate about two fields: computer science and space science. What should I do to pursue a career in space science? Is a career in this field realistic or should I focus on CS? Mina
Dear Mina,
Computer Science and Space are connected given that software is used to control a rover on Mars, and algorithms to process data from a telescope and so much more. The standard path in India for core research and development of space science and technology is through engineering. Consider a B.Tech or B.E. in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering. Admissions for top colleges such as the IITs (Bombay, Kharagpur, Madras and Kanpur have strong Aerospace programmes) or IIST Thiruvananthapuram is through JEE Advanced rank. You can also explore the Pure Science route, which leads towards research, theory, and data analysis. A B.Sc. in Physics, Astronomy, Astrophysics, followed by an M.Sc. and then a Ph.D.. in the IISc-Bengaluru or the IISERs, IITs will be via the CUET or institute-specific exams. A career in Space Science is no longer restricted. Apart from ISRO and NASA, there are opportunities with ESA (Europe), JAXA (Japan) and Roscosmos (Russia) and private space companies.
I completed a B.Sc. in 2024 with a 9.25 CGPA and was preparing for the defence exams. Despite two attempts, I have not been able to clear them. I have been at home all this time and am losing confidence. How can I stay focused? Harshata
Dear Harshata,
First, regain your confidence. Self-analysis should not become a loop of frustration and low motivation. Think beyond the defence forces and see what you would like to explore. Beyond the CDS, consider AFCAT, ICG, SSC-Tech and other exams that may match your B.Sc. background. There are many stages after the written exams such as the medical and SSB, which may also be a block. Have you tried joining a dedicated coaching programme? That would help. If the SSB is a hurdle, identify a senior ex-armed forces officer who can help prepare for the GTO tasks and interview practice. Practise speaking clearly and concisely. Get involved in group activities (sports, volunteering) to subconsciously build your group dynamics skills.
Explore Plan B. Your 9.25 CGPA is a golden ticket. Prepare for M.Sc. Entrance Exams. It will open doors to research, PhD, lectureship, and corporate jobs. Explore other government exams that are prestigious and offer secure careers. If you still feel lost, meet a career counsellor who can help you navigate this and work with you on identifying other prospective careers.
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.
Published - November 29, 2025 04:00 pm IST
The Hindu Education Plus / careers / study abroad / universities and colleges / students / education / higher education
Source: The Hindu
Related Posts: Nandini Raman,Off the edge,Higher education,Study abroad,admission and scholarships,Career counselling
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