Navigating Career Challenges and Pursuing Dreams: An Urban Student's Journey

I am currently a second-year student at Amity University Mumbai, pursuing a degree in mass communication and journalism. This journey has been as exciting as it has been challenging, with twists and turns along the way.

Early Career Trials and Tribulations

My educational journey began with a 12th passed H.S.C in computer science. After high school, I joined a domestic BPO, but found it unfulfilling and left within a fortnight. Feeling frustrated, I sought a more international opportunity, and was offered two MNC jobs—both in the BPO sector. However, my tenure there was short-lived, and I was eventually fired by my engineering friends.

The job search that followed was equally trying. I applied to numerous companies, including international ones like Southland, Firstsource, and Intelenet, but faced multiple rejections. The attempted role at a US-based MNC, Health Prime International India Pvt. Ltd., as an Insurance Coordinator, was another short-lived stint due to my disliking the formal corporate attire.

The Unlikely Moment of Humility and Regression

During my 10-day training period for a Revenue Cycle Management process, I inadvertently let my guard down. I dozed off during training while talking with my friends—a form of train-your-trainer transformation attempted. While I initially aced the written test with a 99 percent score, the practical exam was a different story.

During the practical exam, where the mark bar was set at 96 percent, I got carried away, chatting with my friends about movie dialogues, including philosophical and humorous discussions from 'Gangs of Wasseypur' and 'Dabangg'. The trainer was initially tolerant but eventually came back to find me deeply engaged in this distracting conversation, rather than focused on the task at hand. When I finally came back to task and attempted to correct the errors, it was too late, and I failed with a mere 83 percent.

The experience was a harsh lesson in professionalism and the need for discipline, especially in high-stakes environments. However, it also highlighted the importance of personal branding and maintaining a professional image, even in training settings.

Bouncing Back and Moving Forward

After being fired from the job, things didn't get any easier. Rejections from other companies like BPOs, KPOs, Tech Mahindra, Wipro, and Accenture left me demoralized. Despite a couple of interviews, I was rejected due to the requirement of a degree, as I was not currently enrolled. Eventually, I found a temporary job at a company in Powai, lasting for six months before I decided to leave due to boredom.

Reflecting on my journey, I am now considering my next path. Should I pursue a degree in computer science or mass media, or follow my passion for something else? With each setback, I am becoming more aware of the importance of strategic planning and the need to balance professional and personal aspirations.

My goal now is to make a wise decision, one that aligns more closely with my long-term desires and passions. The path ahead may be bumpy, but I am hopeful that it will lead to a fulfilling career that brings joy and satisfaction.

A Word on English and Online Presence

Thank you for your understanding. I am still honing my English skills and hoping to refine my online presence more effectively. It is an ongoing journey, and I am committed to improving.

For now, I am enjoying the journey, no matter how bumpy it may be. May your journey also be filled with excitement and opportunities to grow.

Keywords: career challenges, student experience, personal branding