Reality check

Myth

A management course is mostly about theory.

Fact

Any good management course aims at preparing professionals with global knowledge and varied experience. It also provides a solid foundation for facing the challenges of a rapidly changing and highly competitive business environment. Students get a chance to explore current issues in management and gain insight into how successful organizations operate. The course is designed to suit the needs of the industry and also cover fundamental-functions of management like decision-making, planning, organizing, leading, directing and controlling.

Management students should focus on the functionality of the course rather than concentrating on the degree acquired. Personality plays a major role in pursuing a course in management. This is so because, right from the screening process — the GD and the interview —various aspects of personality are assessed. Hence, personality traits play an important role in the success of the student not only during the course but also as a professional.

Certain traits like goal orientation, leadership, killer instinct, flexibility, etc., are expected in a student to ensure success in  professional life.

Myth

When you choose a subject you are choosing a career.

Fact

A large chunk of college graduates are successfully employed in fields not related to their academic choices. It is not a thumb rule to continue with the same subject and choose the same career.

Myth

Academic achievement is the only aspect that is essential to improve your chances of career success.

Fact

Courses beyond your curriculum are important too. You will gain valuable experience by participating in extra-curricular activities such as student organizations, sports, social groups and the like.

Volunteer activities will help in strengthening your resume and establish professional contacts in the working field.

Myth

Your first job will determine your career. You ought to be completely sure of your choice when making a career decision.

Fact

You cannot be entirely sure of any decision. Each career has its own merits and demerits. All choices involve risk. Even within a specific field, you are likely to explore new directions.

Myth

Arts students are not employable.

Fact

Students of the Arts stream do have skills and knowledge that are highly valued by employers and are applicable to a wide variety of jobs.

Myth

Engineering is non creative.

Fact

Engineering is one of the most creative jobs. Solving problems requires creativity and inspiration. An engineer solves a problem by using technology or cost-effective solutions but that does not make an engineer less creative.