Dated 29th November, 2000

Kindly give me some information regarding RMAT (Rajasthan Management Aptitude Entrance Test). What are the career options open for me after completing the management programme? When are the examination forms issued?

Rajnish Raj, New Delhi

The Rajasthan Management Entrance Test is conducted in January. The advertisement for the same is carried in newspapers in the month of November. The career options open are dependent on the specialisation opted for - information technology, marketing, finance, human resources or administration.

I am an employee of a nationalised bank. I am dissatisfied with my present job and would like to shift to the software field. A am a science graduate (B.Sc-MPC) with additional qualifications of B.Ed and typing and I have five years experience in the banking sector. I do not possess any practical knowledge or technical qualification in computers but am acquainted with the basic concepts of networking, e-commerce and other latest developments. Please guide me as to what my next course of action should be.

Srinivas P., Nanded

Changing careers is not an easy thing to do at any point in one's life. Your present job could offer you benefits that other professions cannot. Progress along this career path may also be relatively smoother when compared to the IT sector. There are various options by which you may enhance your prospects in the banking sector. You can pursue courses in finance, management and computers. However, if you are still desirous of pursuing a career in IT, you can take up a postgraduate course in computers through correspondence. This will enable you to work and study simultaneously, and will add more weight to your qualifications. You could take up courses such as MCA and M.Sc. (Computer Science). You need to develop your programming skills to perfection and equip yourself with adequate practical or `hands- on' experience. This is important to seek good openings in the IT sector. Also, do not leave your job before you find an equally good job in the software industry.

I am a student of B.Sc, B.Ed. (four-year integrated course). I would like to take up some computer courses so as to shift over to that medium. Considering the present boom in computers, I am thoroughly disinclined to take up teaching as a career option any more. Kindly suggest courses that will still be in use after two years.

Asha, Bhubaneshwar

After your graduation you can pursue a postgraduate course in computers such as M.Sc. (Computer Science) or MCA or even opt for a diploma in advanced software technology. It is important to consider the lab facilities available, the competency of the faculty, and the credibility of the institute. Perfecting programming languages like C, C++, Java etc. will stand you in good stead without fear of becoming obsolete.