Scope after graduation in English (H)

Pervin Malhotra    

Q. I am doing my Bachelor’s in English (H). Could you please tell me the future prospects in this subject after graduation and postgrad? — Amrita Kulshreshtha

A.Since English happens to be the most widely spoken language in the world, there are plenty of things you can do after studying English Literature. The publishing industry for one, requires people with this background. You can get into the print or electronic media as a journalist, editor, web content creator, announcer, newsreader, anchor, scriptwriter, copywriter in an advertising agency, technical writer, public relations or corporate communications executive, etc.

With the proliferation of the media, there’s a growing demand for people who can communicate with style, ease and competence. However, today, a mere bachelor’s degree can’t guarantee you a job. Hence, specialisation is advisable. An additional course at the PG level in English literature itself or in translation, linguistics, comparative literature, PR, corporate communication, journalism, advertising, publishing, script writing, or mass communication would give you the necessary professional edge.

Creative writing is yet another option, and so is translation. Technical writing is another well-paying field.

Many students tend to gravitate towards the arts — especially performing arts i.e. theatre, film etc. With a good command over the language, particularly in spoken English, and basic computer skills you can also look at openings in leading international BPOs. Starting out as an Associate you can move up the ladder to the position of team leader and business development manager if you have what it takes.

The fields of social media marketing, search engine marketing, and community building are also booming nowadays. If you have excellent people skills and a passion for training you can start working as voice and accent trainer or even a soft-skill trainer. Of course you could pursue a career in teaching at the school level (after doing BEd). Some international schools may hire you straight away or at the college level after clearing the UGC NET & after doing MPhil. Qualify and secure a JRF & pursue research (PhD). Try competitive exams and obtain jobs in Govt. & banks or prepare for the Civil Services.

For the love of environment

Q. I’m a student of MSc Environmental Science. I plan to start my own venture after gaining some work experience. What would be my career prospects as an environmental consultant? — Robin Mathew

A.Environmental science, as you must well know, provides an understanding of the environment, how human life impacts it, and how the various elements of the environment can be preserved along with human development.

As you must have surely realised by now, a career in environmental science can be very fulfilling. You’re part of the change needed to make this planet safer and more habitable. It’s more crucial than ever to inform people about the air quality and its associated health risks, especially for children, elders, poor people, pregnant woman, and those with respiratory issues.

Environmental consultants educate people about the natural environment, research environmental issues, advice organisations on clean practices, conduct environmental audits and assess impact of large projects of the government and industry at large, by studying their ecological viability.

You would have three work options as a consultant — natural environment, corporate sector, or public-private partnerships (PPP). In natural environment, you’d advice on preserving protected areas like national parks, zoos, herbal gardens, cultivated forests, etc. In the corporate sector, you’ll contribute to solving issues such as industrial pollution, recycling, renewable energy technology, and waste management.

Apart from private consulting organisations, the National Productivity Council (NPC), Metallurgical Engineering Consultants (MECON), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and CSIR laboratories also provide consultancy services. NGOs committed to environmental protection also consult environmental specialists. 

Rev up your “marine” drive

Q. I will be taking my Class XII Boards in 2018. I am very keen to go into either Marine engineering or join the Indian Navy preferably on the technical side. How should I prepare? — Arman Setia

A. Whether you wish to pursue a BTech in Marine engineering or seek entry to the Indian Navy directly after graduation, I suggest you focus on both your Boards as well as on taking the JEE (Main) at least. 

The Indian Navy has declared that it will shortlist candidates for its Plus II BTech Cadet Entry Scheme from 2018 onwards entirely on the basis of their JEE (Main) ranking.

This move has been introduced to ensure that only high calibre candidates appear for the Service Selection Board (SSB) for admission to the prestigious Naval Academy. Considering the change in mandate, students preparing for January 2018 SSB Interview will now have to appear in the JEE (Main) exam in April 2017.

Earlier, students solely relied on their PCM percentage for entering the Navy and hence focused entirely on their Board preparation.

Students will now have to prepare for the JEE, one of the most sought-after competitive exams in India.

However, should you wish to get into the Naval Wing of the National Defence Academy (NDA) through the 10+2 Cadet Entry Scheme at Indian Naval Academy you only need to have passed 10+2 with Math and Physics from a recognised education board. Do check the UPSC website for relevant details.