Career counselling: questions and answers

Syed Azhar Husnain Abidi

Q1: Dear Mr Abidi, I am seeking your guidance regarding my career path. I have completed my FSc from Islamabad, achieving a score of 716 out of 1100. I have a keen interest in biology and I am considering pursuing a BS in Biology or one of its subfields. Could you please advise me on the best field to pursue and recommend the top universities offering these subjects? (Amna Usman)

Ans: Dear Amna, considering your academic qualifications and interests, I suggest exploring emerging subfields of Biology such as Biochemistry or Medical Microbiology. As for universities, I recommend looking into options in the UK.

Q2: Dear Sir, I have completed my BE in Electronics from Iqra University, Islamabad, with a CGPA of 2.69. I am interested in pursuing an MSc but I am unsure about the subject and institution. Additionally, I would like to inquire about scholarship opportunities for studying abroad. (Arsalan Zafar, Islamabad)

Ans: Dear Mr Arsalan, with your background, I suggest considering a Postgraduate degree in Telecommunications or Control Systems. Eastern European countries like Hungary, Sweden, and Latvia offer affordable tuition fees and living expenses, with English being the medium of instructions. A good performance in your studies can also open up work permit opportunities post-graduation.

Q3: Sir, I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business & Commerce from an Australian university. Following this degree, I am interested in specialising in Professional Accounting in Australia. Could you please provide guidance? My educational background includes O and A levels, CAT pass, a few ACCA papers, and an HND in Business and Management from the UK.

(Raja Zafar, Lahore) Ans: Dear Zafar, given your diverse educational background and current pursuit of a degree in Australia, I recommend reaching out to the university for advice. They can assess your qualifications and provide guidance on potential exemptions and suitable master's programs.

Q4: Dear Mr Abidi, I am currently completing my BS Hons in Biology and am considering postgraduate studies. Can you advise me on an emerging subspecialisation? (Atif Abbas, Multan)

Ans: Dear Atif, after completing your BS Hons in Biological Sciences, I suggest exploring emerging areas such as Molecular Biology or Genetics. These fields can be further combined with Microbiology, Biochemistry, or Pathology, paving the way for advanced research and potentially a PhD.

(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).