Career counselling: questions and answers

Q1: Dear Mr Abidi, I seek guidance for my younger sister who is studying Electrical Engineering at FAST University. She is deciding between three major options: Power, Electronic, and Telecom. We are leaning towards Power, but fieldwork may pose challenges for her as a girl. Considering her future prospects, which option would be the most suitable? (Murtaza Abbas, Lahore)

Ans: Dear Murtaza, considering your concerns about fieldwork, Telecom Engineering seems like a viable option as it typically involves less outdoor work. However, it's important to note that engineering careers generally entail some level of fieldwork, regardless of the specialisation. Another alternative worth exploring is Software Engineering, which offers opportunities for indoor desk jobs, especially in specialties like Network Security, Cyber Security, Digital Forensics, and Mobile Marketing. I recommend discussing these options further with your sister to make an informed decision.

Q2: Dear Sir, I am currently enrolled in FSc Pre-Medical and currently in my second year. I aspire to pursue a degree in Architecture in the future. Would I need to take additional math courses for this? (Tahir Abbas, Lahore)

Ans: Dear Tahir, Architecture falls under the category of Engineering and typically requires a strong foundation in Mathematics. Therefore, the answer is yes, you would need to take Mathematics courses when applying for an Architecture degree. I recommend considering, including Mathematics in your second year of FSc.

Q3: Dear Mr Abidi, I am a student of BSc Hons Agriculture and aspire to appear for the CSS examination. Can you provide guidance on key areas to focus on for CSS exam preparation?

(Hammad Amjad, Peshawar)

Ans: Dear Hammad, I advise you to focus on completing your BSc Hons degree first with distinction. The CSS exam is highly competitive and requires proficiency in a specialised subject along with comprehensive knowledge of English literature, Pakistan History, International Relations, and current affairs. I recommend visiting the CSS official website for detailed information. With dedication and hard work, passing the CSS exam is achievable.

Q4: Dear Sir, my son has completed his FSc non-medical exam, and I am considering sending him abroad, particularly Australia. Should he complete his Engineering degree first, and if so, which branch of Engineering would be beneficial for him in Australia?

(Abbas Raza, Islamabad)

Ans: Dear Abbas, if your son has completed his intermediate/FSc Pre Engineering with at least 60% marks or above, he may consider studying abroad, including in Australia. Additionally, he will need to demonstrate proficiency in English through exams like IELTS or IBT, with a minimum score of 6 or 85, respectively. There are various branches of Engineering to choose from, such as Electrical, Computer, Chemical, Civil, and Environmental Engineering. His choice should align with his interests and the career opportunities available in Australia.

(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).