Q: I am a mechanical engineer and am employed in a private firm. I want to pursue a two-year postgraduate course in rural management. Should I opt for it or should I try some other course?
O.P. Singh
A: This question can only be answered once we know your area of interest and your current work area. In the absence of that, it would be really unwise for us to suggest any specific course of action.
Q: I have two years’ experience as a software quality analyst and I am working with a software division of Tata Sons at present. I have a BTech degree in information technology. Will a MBA (systems) degree improve my prospects?
Amit Paul
A: If that is your field of interest, further studies in quality, systems and information security audit will prove to be a better option. There is always a dearth of good talent in software quality and testing.
Q: I will be completing my BTech in 2008 and also have a post graduate diploma in computer applications (PGDCA) degree. However, I took a gap year before doing my BTech. I am worried that I will be questioned at the time of my campus placements about this even though I have maintained a high cumulative grade point average (CGPA). Will it be a problem at the time of placements?
Achintya Paul
A: The best option is to be honest about it and state the facts. In all probability, it will not matter to the recruiter. Having a gap year is not such an issue any longer.
Q: I am a 30-year-old MA in Bengali literature. Subsequently, I worked in a BPO. Will doing a MBA(HR) offer better prospects? Is there any age limit for that?
S. Biswas
A: Doing an MBA would help you in your career. You should choose your specialisation depending on your interest.
There is technically no age limit for an MBA programme, however government/university-recognised courses stipulate an age limit.
You can also opt for the accelerated one-year course at XLRI, since you have work experience.
Q: I completed my BTech degree in electronics and communication engineering from the West Bengal University of Technology in 2005. I have worked in a development laboratory as a graduate apprentice from July 2005 to May 2006. In June 2006, I joined the purchase department and am an executive in the materials management department at present. What can I do to boost my prospects?
Jayeeta Basak
A: Since you have done your engineering in a particular field, I am assuming that you like electronics. Why not go in for a masters either in India or overseas. Alternatively, if you like management then MBA courses are open for you.
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