Pursuing Research to Embracing New Opportunities
Life is all about challenges. Now that I think about it maybe the mundane one would have been relaxing...but would it have been as fun as this is?
Hi, welcome back! Today, I want to discuss something different…
Different from my usual banter on how Power Maps work or why the Sun is so Hot? This is another personal tale that many might relate to.
When I started my Master’s in Mathematics at the Central University of Karnataka, I was quite certain that I would pursue a career in research. The next few years of my life would involve doing a PhD, presenting posters, and engaging deeply in research. I was extremely focused on this decision.
To be honest, I was so determined and committed to this goal that I didn’t even consider attending placement drives. I turned down several offers — not many, but a few — from different companies before my Master’s program, simply because I was so sure that my future lay in research. I envisioned myself pursuing research in Europe, but that’s a different story that I’ll share some other time.
Fast forward to today, almost two and a half years later, and I find myself entering the corporate world — something I never thought I would do. It’s not that I’m against corporate jobs; it’s just that I was entirely focused on research. That was my plan, my conviction.
Reflecting on my Master’s journey, I remember my seniors and professors strongly advocating for me to prepare for exams like NET and GATE — essential qualifications for anyone looking to pursue research in India. I attempted these exams once or twice, but I wasn’t as invested in them as I was in the idea of finding a direct research position. For me, research was about engaging deeply with ideas, analyzing them, and contributing something meaningful to the scientific community — not just passing an exam.
Exams like NET and GATE are undoubtedly excellent tools for identifying capable candidates from a large pool of applicants. They showcase dedication and knowledge, but in my opinion, they don’t necessarily reflect a person’s potential as a researcher. For instance, I remember struggling with the theory of numerical computations, even though I excelled in applying them practically. My strength lies in problem-solving and contributing innovative ideas to the scientific domain.
Research is not just about clearing exams; it’s about understanding methodologies, analyzing gaps, formulating questions, and thinking critically. Exams may test your grasp of concepts, but they don’t measure how well you can come up with ideas, work on them, and bring them to fruition. They also don’t capture the ability to collaborate effectively, identify the right people to work with, or navigate the nuances of conducting meaningful research.
During and after my Master’s(more after my master’s), I dedicated myself to reaching out to professors, reading papers, and exploring ideas. While my friends were out partying or enjoying their free time, I would be in my room, writing emails to professors, reading their work, and trying to connect with them. It wasn’t always easy to get a response, but when I did, it felt incredibly rewarding. Some professors were kind enough to schedule Zoom calls with me, discuss their research groups, discussing my and provide valuable insights. These interactions were some of the most enriching experiences of my academic journey.
I’ve spoken with professors from different parts of the world, and these conversations have been transformative. Engaging with people from different cultures and hearing their perspectives on research has been a beautiful experience. It’s fascinating how they show interest in my background while sharing their own.
These experiences have reinforced my belief that research is about persistence, curiosity, and genuine interest. While exams are important for assessing knowledge, they shouldn’t be the sole criteria for determining someone’s potential as a researcher. Some people excel at exams but may not have the drive or creativity needed for research, while others may struggle with exams but possess exceptional research capabilities.
This has been my journey and perspective. What are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments!
