Guru, let me know some effective ideas about overcoming this problem that has made me really sad....
Hello Guru,
I am almost 20 years of age and I have done my Bachelor’s from a college. Guru, my dilemma is that I want to crack the CSS competitive exam with flying colours, but I have been told by many people who have already been through the process that only those who go to prestigious universities have a shot at acing CSS exams.
Guru, this is very depressing for me as I was unable to pursue a degree from a prestigious university due to financial constraints. Guru, let me know some effective ideas about overcoming this problem that has made me really sad.
A Confused CSS Aspirant
Dear Confused CSS Aspirant,
CSS exams are probably one of the most challenging exams an aspirant can take, as only the crème de la crème manages to ace them. To qualify, the candidate has to clear four tests in all: a written test, a medical examination, a viva and a psychological exam.
Also, the candidate must have a Bachelor’s degree in at least 2nd division. Competition is really very tough, so it is possible that those who are from good universities have an edge over the others as they may have more exposure, but only those qualify who do better than the others in the written exam. The examiner wouldn’t know where you did you Bachelor’s from and would only judge you on your performance.
To prepare yourself for the CSS exams, you should join a good academy, and improve your knowledge of current affairs by reading newspapers and books, and watching news and talk shows on TV. Improve your English language skills, and groom your personality as best as you can.
Good luck
Dear Guru,
I am a 14-year-old boy. My problem is that I don’t like to study, especially science subjects. The reason is I don’t like science subjects, but my parents want me to become a doctor. I am really good at memorising stuff, so I usually get good grades, but I am very unhappy with my life.
Guru, I want to become a lawyer because I have seen many TV shows about lawyers and I love the way they fight cases in court. I am very good at painting and my art teacher thinks I have the potential to become a good artist.
In other words, I can do so many other things I like: study social sciences, or maybe Economics, but only if I am not forced to take the science group. Unfortunately, without my parents’ permission, I can’t do anything. How can I convince my parents to let me do what I want?
Frustrated Student
Dear Frustrated Student,
Most parents want their offspring to take up science subjects because they want their children to become doctors or engineers. They still think that these are the only respectable professions.
Unfortunately, they don’t take into consideration what their children want as they think they know better. Your parents want you to become successful in life, and to them it can only be done if you become a doctor.
Changing your parents’ perspective will not be easy because as of now you don’t even know what you want. You can only convince them if you are clear in your mind about what you want to do. You are excited about your options, but are not focused on any one of them. Unfortunately, students are made to choose their field of study pretty early, so the choices become restricted for them. You should discuss your issue with your school counsellors or teachers. Hopefully, this will give you some clarity about what you really want and whether you have what it takes for your preferred field of study.
The next step would be to have a serious talk with your parents. Tell them why you think you would be better at some other subject, and ask them to talk to your teachers as well.
My dear, your parents have your best interests at heart and if you can convince them you will do well in your chosen field, chances are they will allow you to go for it.
Best of luck
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