Thursday, June 24, 2010

I want to be ....

All of us remember our kindergarten dreams. I wanted to be a pilot, an air hostess, archaeologist, doctor and the list was endless till I graduated and planted myself in the software industry. I believe today, I am transplanted in my true calling as a writer. My meandering mind apart, let’s take a look at some very promising, not run-off-the-mill careers.

The past has its own charm and mysticism and that never ceases to fascinate us. Some movies are tribute to this fascination that spans generations. I cant think of any better than the Indiana Jones series. My son would disagree and vote for “The Mummy”. In a country like India, the study of archaeology is very important. Archaeological Courses in India consist of a detailed study of illustrated manuscripts, fossils, inscriptions and coins. Numismatics, epigraphy, archives and museology are also important branches of study included in archaeological courses in India. For the eager-beaver, a three years bachelor's degree in archaeology is the basic qualification required. A post graduate degree or diploma in archaeology or further research in allied fields of study can also be pursued. Graduates in any discipline can do this. However, graduates in history, social sciences like sociology, anthropology are given preference. While many universities in India offer courses in archaeology, there are also institutes outside the country providing these courses.Universityof London (UCL), the Cardiff School of History and Archaeology (UK), Bournemouth University (UK), Institute Of Egyptian Artand Archaeology at the University of Memphis are some of the reliable institutions promising a wide range of career prospects for aspiring candidates.

Just as a coin has two sides, a child also has two sides. Most parents fall into the trap of ignoring the child’s lack of interest in a particular area of development. That area can be a hobby, a sport or even academics. What if that area were academics? There is a life where a person can dream and realize that dream without being needed to shine academically. What career options lie for non-academically inclined young adults? You would be very surprised at how big this avenue is.

All roads lead to the cinema theatre. Wondering why? Even in a down economy who wouldn’t like to watch a movie or their favorite serial?Cinematography is big time in India and around the world these days. Institutions and schools for cinematography can be found all over the world. Some of the courses one can do in cinematography are acting, 3D Animation, screenwriting, cinematography, non-linear editing, direction/filmmaking, sound recording and engineering. Most of these courses would require an undergraduate degree in arts or sciences. Some diploma courses can be done after std.XII, leading to further courses. I am sure the cynic in you is wondering what the moolah would be end of the day. Anything between Rs.8000-Rs.30,000 for a start and definitely upward in a very short span of time.

Any course is possible only with good health. “Keeping fit” is the motto on everyone’s mind today. Most of us would have tried it our own way but reluctantly admitted that we need professional help and headed to a gym. Fitness is serious business these days and is a career with plenty of opportunities especially in a country passionate about sports. To become a fitness trainer, one needs to apply to fitness institutes after completing 18 years. A basic knowledge in core subjects like fitness training, human anatomy and physiology, basic nutrition and posture training would be imparted. A diploma course in Fitness Management (DFM) facilitates candidates to branch off to their core interest within the industry like fitness training, physiotherapy and nutrition. An undergraduate from any stream can apply. A good fitness guru needs to keep abreast with all kinds of new fitness techniques evolving. He/she also needs to be a people person. Dedication is the key to success in this career. Some of the best trainers earn close to Rs.60,000 and more in this country.

Well for those who are better of taking a seat, there are loads of options too. Hobbies make careers too these days. My hobby is embroidery. There have been days when I have toyed with the idea of starting a commercial embroidery unit of my own. A friend of mine has cooking into a commercial venture. Today, she runs a state-of-the-art cookery school from her home. There is a lot of scope for arts. Arts and our hobbies sometimes give us the satisfaction mainstream professions don’t. A painter can earn much more than any management guru, software professional or even a doctor. Ever heard of Commercial fine arts? Commercial Fine Arts is a relatively recent phenomenon in India which refers to the use of different art media for commercial functions. The term 'commercial fine arts' broadly focuses on painting, sculpting, applied art ,graphic interior design, ceramic design, mural design, metal craft, pottery design and painting. An individual needs to have keen observatory sense, perseverance, marketing skills and indomitable will power to pursue a career in this field of fine arts. Pragmatism, originality, selling skills and excellence are the hallmark of a commercial artist, who essentially should be creative and original. Students interested in a career in this exciting field should enroll in Commercial Fine Arts Courses in India. More than often a course in Fine Arts is related with that in Commercial Fine Arts. For pursuing a Bachelors Degree course in Fine Arts, one must have passed the Higher Secondary Examinations or 10+ 2 level. Besides this academic qualification, the individual should have a creative bent of mind and an eye for detail. For acquiring a Post Graduate degree in Commercial Fine Arts, you need to be a graduate in Fine Arts. In India, individuals having a degree in commercial fine arts can choose a career either in designing, art studios or the advertisement industry. A career as a graphic designer churning out designs and logos for visual aids in commercial houses and making illustrations in books or magazines for a publishing house can also be a viable option. You can also opt for designing the non-verbal presentations for television programs involving trade figure analysis, election results, etc. After completing Commercial Fine Arts Courses in India, an artist can also design stamps and letter heads for government organizations and remain gainfully employed. Many advertisement and software firms in India look for experts in commercial fine arts for the post of 'Graphic Equaliser'. An artist specializing in commercial fine arts can also draw and design billboards, cinema slides, technical catalogues, window slides and the like. He can also work as an art director in theatre and film productions.
A lot of people leave lucrative jobs to start organic farms. End of the day, it is not how much you earn with your toil but its how much your toil has been worth to you personally that matters. Parents envision their children to be all-rounders and winners. Sometimes, the pressure to be someone they cannot be has drastic results. The simple explanation for so many teen suicides. These young lives preferred being snuffed out than being snubbed every single day. If your child can sing encourage his/her voice to make it to the Indian Idol. If your child is the best dancer you have seen that could be where his/her future lies. Dance along and give them the opportunity to hone their skill. A child with a passion will excel. A little encouragement, a helping hand and reasonable financial support can definitely make your child a winner everyday.

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