Career counselling: questions and answers

Q1: Dear Mr Abidi, my son has recently completed his A-levels with majors in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. He is not inclined towards pursuing MBBS or dentistry. He is interested in a career related to environmental sciences or public health. Please guide us on suitable undergraduate programs. (Mansoor Ali – Islamabad)

Ans: Dear Mansoor, it is excellent that your son has clarity about his interests. Environmental Sciences and Public Health are both growing fields with immense potential for research and employment opportunities. For undergraduate studies, he can opt for programmes like BS Environmental Science, BS Public Health, or BS Environmental Engineering. These programmes can lead to careers in environmental policy-making, sustainable development, or global health. Universities in Pakistan like NUST, COMSATS, and LUMS offer strong programs in these areas. Post-graduation opportunities and career prospects in these fields are globally recognized, particularly if he chooses to pursue further studies abroad.

Q2: Dear Sir, I completed my Bachelor's in Computer Science with a 3.8 CGPA from FAST University. I’m interested in pursuing a master's abroad but cannot decide between Artificial Intelligence and Data Science. Which field has better prospects in the coming years? (Sania Farooq – Karachi)

Ans: Dear Sania, both Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science are highly relevant and growing fields in the tech industry, and choosing between them depends on your interests and career goals. AI focuses on developing intelligent systems, which include machine learning, robotics, and neural networks, whereas Data Science is about analysing and interpreting large datasets to extract insights and solve real-world problems. If you are interested in building intelligent systems and algorithms, AI might be your path. On the other hand, if you are inclined toward data analysis and business intelligence, Data Science is better suited for you. Both fields are in high demand worldwide, and pursuing a master's from renowned universities like Stanford, MIT, or ETH Zurich can enhance your career opportunities significantly.

Q3: Respected Sir, I have done my Bachelor's in Mass Communication and wish to pursue a career in journalism. However, I’m unsure whether to go for a master's or start working directly in the field. What would you advise? (Hina Khalid – Lahore)

Ans: Dear Hina, in the field of journalism, practical experience often holds more value than just academic qualifications. While a master's degree can enhance your theoretical understanding and provide networking opportunities, starting work in the field right away allows you to build a portfolio, gain real-world experience, and establish industry connections. I suggest applying for internships or entry-level positions in reputable news organisations, digital media platforms, or PR agencies. Once you have some experience, you can decide if pursuing a master's in Journalism, Media Studies, or Communication from institutions like Goldsmiths, University of London, or Columbia University is necessary for advancing your career.

Q4: Dear Mr Abidi, my daughter is currently in her final year of O-levels and is passionate about studying Psychology. Please guide us on the best pathways for pursuing Psychology at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. (Farooq Ahmed – Faisalabad)

Ans: Dear Farooq, it’s great that your daughter is interested in Psychology, a field with immense opportunities in mental health, research, and education. After completing her O-levels, she should pursue A-levels with subjects like Psychology, Biology, and Sociology, as they align well with her career goals. For undergraduate studies, she can apply for BS Psychology programs at top universities like LUMS, NUST, or Quaid-e-Azam University in Pakistan. For further specialization, pursuing a master's degree abroad in Clinical Psychology, Organisational Psychology, or Neuropsychology from renowned institutions like the University of Cambridge, University College London, or the University of Toronto would be ideal. Additionally, she can build her career in academia, research, or therapy, depending on her area of interest.

(Syed Azhar Husnain Abidi is a renowned educationist in Pakistan, with more than 20 years of experience as provider of education counselling services. He has represented Pakistan in over 100 national and international seminars, conferences and fora. He is a recipient of the most coveted civil award Tamgha-e-Imtiaz).