9 answers
Krish
Student
Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India
1
Question
Asked
2379 views
What can I do to improve my career from here?
I am feeling quite low these days. I scored only 71% in my board exams and 69 percentile in JEE Mains. I got admission into Thapar CSE only because of the SC category, and this has affected my confidence a lot. My parents are also not very happy with my performance, and they are not allowing me to take a drop year. Please guide me what can I do from here to improve my career
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8 answers
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1185
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Krish,
I understand how burdensome this is for you at the moment. Confidence can be undermined by marks and ranks, particularly when family expectations are added. However, the reality is that a single test or a single number does not determine your career.
Your accomplishment of securing a seat in CSE at Thapar is commendable, and many individuals would like to be in your position. The best way to regain confidence from this point on is to concentrate on your controllable elements:
- Skill-building : Skills are often more important than grades in computer science. Begin with small-scale coding exercises (LeetCode, HackerRank, open-source projects) and progressively develop a portfolio that showcases your abilities.
- Mindset shift: You should compare yourself to yesterday rather than your exam results. Technology is developing quickly.
- Internships & projects: Try looking for hackathons, internships, or even side projects. When it comes to employing tech, these are really important.
- Networking : Make connections with alumni, seniors, and peers who can offer guidance. Conversations, not just applications, open many doors.
- Parents’ expectations: Their concerns are understandable, but you don't have to use your test scores as the only way to establish your value. The confidence they have in your approach will be restored if you demonstrate consistent dedication and improvement over time.
Avoid thinking about "drop year vs. no drop year" at this time. Think about it: How can I make the most of my current situation to become the person I want to be? Your potential is determined by the work and consistency you put out from here, not your scores.
You're not at a disadvantage. Like all of your classmates, you're just beginning out.
Best wishes!
I understand how burdensome this is for you at the moment. Confidence can be undermined by marks and ranks, particularly when family expectations are added. However, the reality is that a single test or a single number does not determine your career.
Your accomplishment of securing a seat in CSE at Thapar is commendable, and many individuals would like to be in your position. The best way to regain confidence from this point on is to concentrate on your controllable elements:
- Skill-building : Skills are often more important than grades in computer science. Begin with small-scale coding exercises (LeetCode, HackerRank, open-source projects) and progressively develop a portfolio that showcases your abilities.
- Mindset shift: You should compare yourself to yesterday rather than your exam results. Technology is developing quickly.
- Internships & projects: Try looking for hackathons, internships, or even side projects. When it comes to employing tech, these are really important.
- Networking : Make connections with alumni, seniors, and peers who can offer guidance. Conversations, not just applications, open many doors.
- Parents’ expectations: Their concerns are understandable, but you don't have to use your test scores as the only way to establish your value. The confidence they have in your approach will be restored if you demonstrate consistent dedication and improvement over time.
Avoid thinking about "drop year vs. no drop year" at this time. Think about it: How can I make the most of my current situation to become the person I want to be? Your potential is determined by the work and consistency you put out from here, not your scores.
You're not at a disadvantage. Like all of your classmates, you're just beginning out.
Best wishes!
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your advice and guidance. I really appreciate your thoughtful response—it means a lot to have reassurance and support during difficult times. Your advice is truly valuable, and I’ll be sure to reflect on it and put it into practice.
Thanks again for your kindness and encouragement!
Krish
You’re welcome, Krish. Keep trusting yourself and moving forward, your potential goes far beyond exam scores.
Chinyere Okafor
Robiah Thabit
Process Engineer
13
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Robiah’s Answer
Hello Krish,
First of all, it takes courage to share how you’re feeling. I know it can be tough when things don’t go exactly as planned, but please remember, your marks don’t define your potential. Getting into Thapar CSE is already a big achievement, and many successful people started from places they once felt disappointed about.
The good news is that Computer Science is one of the strongest and most future-proof fields. Every industry, health, finance, space, education, entertainment needs skilled computer scientists, and the demand will only grow. So, if your start feels shaky, you’re in a field with endless opportunities ahead.
What matters most now is the skills and projects you build. Focus on strengthening your basics (DSA, programming, databases), try building small projects, and explore platforms like LeetCode or Kaggle. Internships, coding clubs, and hackathons can also give you real-world experience and confidence.
Upload your project and the process on platforms, and don't assume no one is watching. Just keep doing what you can do.
I also just recently started learning programming myself and I use Kaggle to practice and explore data projects.
Be kind to yourself, take it one day at a time, and trust that the effort you put in now will shape a much bigger future than your exam scores ever could.
I hope you feel a lil better after reading this.
First of all, it takes courage to share how you’re feeling. I know it can be tough when things don’t go exactly as planned, but please remember, your marks don’t define your potential. Getting into Thapar CSE is already a big achievement, and many successful people started from places they once felt disappointed about.
The good news is that Computer Science is one of the strongest and most future-proof fields. Every industry, health, finance, space, education, entertainment needs skilled computer scientists, and the demand will only grow. So, if your start feels shaky, you’re in a field with endless opportunities ahead.
What matters most now is the skills and projects you build. Focus on strengthening your basics (DSA, programming, databases), try building small projects, and explore platforms like LeetCode or Kaggle. Internships, coding clubs, and hackathons can also give you real-world experience and confidence.
Upload your project and the process on platforms, and don't assume no one is watching. Just keep doing what you can do.
I also just recently started learning programming myself and I use Kaggle to practice and explore data projects.
Be kind to yourself, take it one day at a time, and trust that the effort you put in now will shape a much bigger future than your exam scores ever could.
I hope you feel a lil better after reading this.
Thankyou Rohbiah it helps a lot to share your problem to someone and get some help in difficult times thanks a lot
Krish
Aljo Anto
MEICA Engineer
1
Answer
Coventry, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Aljo’s Answer
Hi Buddy,
Don’t worry too much about grades. I was just an average student myself—I didn’t get into a government engineering college and even had plenty of backlogs during my degree. Still, college life turned out to be one of the best times of my life. So don’t stress too much. Just enjoy the journey.
Enjoying doesn’t mean ignoring your studies, but it does mean not overthinking every grade. From my experience, most of the top scorers ended up in routine fixed-time jobs. If that’s not what you want, try something different. Work hard on what truly interests you, and you’ll eventually get to where you want to be.
Also, have the courage to say “no” to things you don’t like. Don’t live for others’ expectations—listen to your own mind and heart. Sometimes they’ll give you different answers. Personally, I tend to follow my heart—but the choice is yours. Choose wisely.
Don’t worry too much about grades. I was just an average student myself—I didn’t get into a government engineering college and even had plenty of backlogs during my degree. Still, college life turned out to be one of the best times of my life. So don’t stress too much. Just enjoy the journey.
Enjoying doesn’t mean ignoring your studies, but it does mean not overthinking every grade. From my experience, most of the top scorers ended up in routine fixed-time jobs. If that’s not what you want, try something different. Work hard on what truly interests you, and you’ll eventually get to where you want to be.
Also, have the courage to say “no” to things you don’t like. Don’t live for others’ expectations—listen to your own mind and heart. Sometimes they’ll give you different answers. Personally, I tend to follow my heart—but the choice is yours. Choose wisely.
Laxman methree
7
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Laxman’s Answer
Hey, first of all—it’s okay to feel low, but remember: your exam score does not define your future. You already got into Thapar CSE, which is a great opportunity. Many successful people did not have top scores but built strong careers through skills and consistency.
Here’s what you can do from here:
Focus on skills, not just marks – Learn coding, data structures, AI/ML, or cybersecurity through online platforms (Coursera, Udemy, free YouTube courses).
Work on projects – Build small apps, websites, or solve real problems. This will boost your confidence and help in placements.
Internships & networking – Look for internships early, attend hackathons, and connect with seniors.
Stay consistent – Your parents may be disappointed now, but if you keep improving step by step, they’ll see your growth.
👉 Remember: Many students with average scores have gone on to work at Google, Microsoft, startups, or built their own companies—because they focused on skills, practice, and persistence.
Here’s what you can do from here:
Focus on skills, not just marks – Learn coding, data structures, AI/ML, or cybersecurity through online platforms (Coursera, Udemy, free YouTube courses).
Work on projects – Build small apps, websites, or solve real problems. This will boost your confidence and help in placements.
Internships & networking – Look for internships early, attend hackathons, and connect with seniors.
Stay consistent – Your parents may be disappointed now, but if you keep improving step by step, they’ll see your growth.
👉 Remember: Many students with average scores have gone on to work at Google, Microsoft, startups, or built their own companies—because they focused on skills, practice, and persistence.
Thank you very much Laxman sir for your valuable guidance and encouragement. Your advice came at the right time and gave me the reassurance I needed. I truly appreciate your support, and I’ll do my best to apply your suggestions moving forward.
Krish
Sandeep Chenthamara
Talent Acquisition
9
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Sandeep’s Answer
As a campus recruiter, I believe your grades are just a starting point. In real interviews, your personal and technical skills are what truly count.
Now that you have this chance, focus on what interests you. If you love coding, think about whether you're a strong coder, average, or still learning. If coding isn't your strength, consider exploring other IT areas like DevOps, security engineering, testing, or product management.
When it comes to your parents, remember they want the best for you, which is why they focus on grades. But don't let that pressure you. Instead, think about what you can achieve in the future.
Good luck!
Now that you have this chance, focus on what interests you. If you love coding, think about whether you're a strong coder, average, or still learning. If coding isn't your strength, consider exploring other IT areas like DevOps, security engineering, testing, or product management.
When it comes to your parents, remember they want the best for you, which is why they focus on grades. But don't let that pressure you. Instead, think about what you can achieve in the future.
Good luck!
Thank you so much Sandeep sir for your kind advice and guidance. I truly appreciate the time you took to share your insights—it has given me much-needed reassurance and clarity. Your words mean a lot, and I will make sure to work on your suggestions.
Krish
Jerry Bires
career coach
71
Answers
Carbondale, Illinois
Updated
Jerry’s Answer
Krish,
First, there will be many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice.
Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently 75. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked across multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities changed; not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, while he kindly took a gamble when he hired me in 2003; I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years. My point is that life and career decision-making is not cookie-cutter and uncertainty and life situations tend to be fluid.
That all said, factor this into your decision-making. We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you moving forward.
First, there will be many fine answers here for you to review and I hope to not offer repetitive advice.
Truly, you are experiencing what I, the other folks who answered you, and about 50 million others on planet Earth also have gone through at your age in their lives. And your "search" may last decades, if I offer my own path as an example.
I'm currently 75. When I was 43, an employer looked at my resume and said my career progression didn't make sense to him because it appeared I had worked across multiple, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. In truth, he was right. I'd moved from Ohio to Los Angeles to the SF Bay area, which meant new employers at each stop. My interests and skills/abilities changed; not only my geographic location. Truly, only I could link together why the shifts in employment had been made. Bottom line, while he kindly took a gamble when he hired me in 2003; I worked for him as an employee and then a contractor for 15 years. My point is that life and career decision-making is not cookie-cutter and uncertainty and life situations tend to be fluid.
That all said, factor this into your decision-making. We're living in rapidly changing times. Our weather, technology and our ability to work globally are in flux and evolving. E.g., who knows where artificial intelligence is headed and how will it affect your future work opportunities? One thing will remain consistent and valuable. Your ability to communicate effectively. And what can assist you in communicating more easily and therefore become even more employable? Language. Make an effort to learn to speak, write and read a second language. Or two. Your worth will increase dramatically. Get a college degree or higher in courses to which your interests gravitate. Determine how well you perform activities about which you are passionate. Because if you are not good to great at something, why should someone hire you to perform that function?
Conduct this Google search: what professions will be in demand in ten years
Then substitute another/related job title or profession to see if that provides a different or expanded list. The results, because of our changing world, may or may not be entirely on target but you'll get an idea. AND you may find out that a certain country may be where that opportunity is most likely to be...hence, my advice about learning multiple languages.
Be sure to go to LinkedIn and search by job title for individuals who now or previously held the job title in which you’re interested. Their profiles should contain valuable information about their duties, work history, career progression, associations/organizations of value to research and more.
Good fortune to you moving forward.
Thanks a lot jerry it's truly greatful to get some help and advice in difficult times I am surely going to look into your advice and try to improving my career
Krish
Arush Anand
Associate Architect
20
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Arush’s Answer
Hi Krish,
Thank you for opening up about this—it takes courage to share when you’re feeling low.
I too passed out from NIT Kurukshetra in CSE, so i can better suggest you for the upcoming 4 years of journey.
First, let me tell you this clearly: scoring 71% in boards and 69 percentile in JEE Mains does not define your future. Marks are just one checkpoint, not the final destination. Many successful engineers, entrepreneurs, and researchers had average scores at the start but grew through skills, consistency, and smart choices.
You’re already admitted into Thapar CSE—that’s actually a great opportunity. Thapar is a respected college with good placements, strong alumni, and industry connections. The fact that you got in, even with reservation benefit, doesn’t reduce your worth. What matters now is what you do inside the college.
Here’s a practical roadmap you can follow:
1. Accept & Reset Your Mindset
Stop comparing yourself with others—everyone’s path is unique.
SC reservation is not “cheating.” It’s a structural support given for equal opportunity. What will matter is how you perform going forward.
Instead of regretting a drop year, use the 4 years ahead as your real runway.
2. Build Strong CS Fundamentals
Since you’re in CSE, your career growth depends much more on skills than on past marks.
Start early with:
Programming → Learn C++/Python properly. Solve problems on LeetCode
, Codeforces
Data Structures & Algorithms (DSA) → Pick a structured course (e.g., free ones on YouTube or paid like from Coding Ninjas / Apna College / Striver’s A2Z DSA).
CS Basics → OS, DBMS, Computer Networks—focus from 2nd year onward.
3. Develop Projects & Practical Skills
Recruiters value projects + internships more than grades:
Learn Web Development (HTML, CSS, JS, React, Node.js) OR App Development (Flutter, Android).
Build small projects → portfolio website, chatbot, task manager app, etc.
Upload on GitHub.
This makes you placement-ready by 3rd year.
4. Explore Emerging Fields
If you’re curious, start exploring side fields (don’t rush, but taste them):
AI/ML (Python, TensorFlow, Kaggle competitions)
Cybersecurity
Cloud/DevOps
Blockchain/Web3
These are in demand and can make you stand out.
5. Soft Skills & Networking
Improve communication skills → join clubs, present in class, write blogs/LinkedIn posts.
Build a LinkedIn profile early and connect with seniors & alumni.
Participate in hackathons & coding competitions—they help in confidence-building.
6. Placements & Higher Studies
By the end of 3rd year:
Start applying for internships (even unpaid initially for experience).
For final placements, practice coding interviews & system design.
If you’re interested in research or higher studies, prepare for GATE/ GRE in 3rd–4th year.
7. Personal Growth
Don’t isolate yourself because of low confidence. Join groups, find like-minded peers.
Balance academics with hobbies (music, sports, art—whatever helps your mind).
Exercise, eat well, and sleep enough—mental clarity improves learning speed.
The truth: Your starting point doesn’t matter much in tech. What matters is how you use the next 4 years. Many top engineers from FAANG (Google, Amazon, etc.) were not IITians—they built themselves step by step.
If you start consistent skill-building today, by 3rd year you can be sitting for ₹20–40 LPA packages or higher studies abroad.
Regards,
Arush
Thank you for opening up about this—it takes courage to share when you’re feeling low.
I too passed out from NIT Kurukshetra in CSE, so i can better suggest you for the upcoming 4 years of journey.
First, let me tell you this clearly: scoring 71% in boards and 69 percentile in JEE Mains does not define your future. Marks are just one checkpoint, not the final destination. Many successful engineers, entrepreneurs, and researchers had average scores at the start but grew through skills, consistency, and smart choices.
You’re already admitted into Thapar CSE—that’s actually a great opportunity. Thapar is a respected college with good placements, strong alumni, and industry connections. The fact that you got in, even with reservation benefit, doesn’t reduce your worth. What matters now is what you do inside the college.
Here’s a practical roadmap you can follow:
1. Accept & Reset Your Mindset
Stop comparing yourself with others—everyone’s path is unique.
SC reservation is not “cheating.” It’s a structural support given for equal opportunity. What will matter is how you perform going forward.
Instead of regretting a drop year, use the 4 years ahead as your real runway.
2. Build Strong CS Fundamentals
Since you’re in CSE, your career growth depends much more on skills than on past marks.
Start early with:
Programming → Learn C++/Python properly. Solve problems on LeetCode
, Codeforces
Data Structures & Algorithms (DSA) → Pick a structured course (e.g., free ones on YouTube or paid like from Coding Ninjas / Apna College / Striver’s A2Z DSA).
CS Basics → OS, DBMS, Computer Networks—focus from 2nd year onward.
3. Develop Projects & Practical Skills
Recruiters value projects + internships more than grades:
Learn Web Development (HTML, CSS, JS, React, Node.js) OR App Development (Flutter, Android).
Build small projects → portfolio website, chatbot, task manager app, etc.
Upload on GitHub.
This makes you placement-ready by 3rd year.
4. Explore Emerging Fields
If you’re curious, start exploring side fields (don’t rush, but taste them):
AI/ML (Python, TensorFlow, Kaggle competitions)
Cybersecurity
Cloud/DevOps
Blockchain/Web3
These are in demand and can make you stand out.
5. Soft Skills & Networking
Improve communication skills → join clubs, present in class, write blogs/LinkedIn posts.
Build a LinkedIn profile early and connect with seniors & alumni.
Participate in hackathons & coding competitions—they help in confidence-building.
6. Placements & Higher Studies
By the end of 3rd year:
Start applying for internships (even unpaid initially for experience).
For final placements, practice coding interviews & system design.
If you’re interested in research or higher studies, prepare for GATE/ GRE in 3rd–4th year.
7. Personal Growth
Don’t isolate yourself because of low confidence. Join groups, find like-minded peers.
Balance academics with hobbies (music, sports, art—whatever helps your mind).
Exercise, eat well, and sleep enough—mental clarity improves learning speed.
The truth: Your starting point doesn’t matter much in tech. What matters is how you use the next 4 years. Many top engineers from FAANG (Google, Amazon, etc.) were not IITians—they built themselves step by step.
If you start consistent skill-building today, by 3rd year you can be sitting for ₹20–40 LPA packages or higher studies abroad.
Regards,
Arush
I really appreciate your thoughtful advice and the encouragement you shared. It’s always helpful to hear different perspectives, especially during challenging times, and your words have given me fresh motivation. I’ll definitely keep your suggestions in mind and work on them.
Krish
Annah Edmonds
Licensed Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist
221
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Annah’s Answer
Krish, it sounds like you have a foot in the door, and this is an opportunity to improve in areas where you struggle. It can be tough when your school decisions rely upon the approval of others- such as parental expectation. This can place pressure on a person to perform a certain way. While I don't know your skills or strengths, I do know there are always ways to learn what you need to succeed. The ebb and flow of being a student is that some courses will be easier, some more challenging, and there may be wins and fails along the way. As with anything in life it is the learning that counts; this can be cumulative. Hopefully you are headed in a direction that is interesting to you! It is much more difficult to learn when the topic or outcome is unwanted. What you can do to set yourself up- figure out what your style of learning is (visual, auditory, etc.), whether you have specific learning challenges, and what resources may be at your disposal. Some resources might be a peer study group, tutoring, academic coaching or writing center, counselor, or mentor (academic or professional). Doing poorly on an exam is by no means the end of the world- though it might feel like it in the moment. No exam or school program has the power to dictate the rest of your life or even the next year of your life. Only you get to do this! It may take willpower and hard work, but you are the one that makes the difference. As corny as this might sound, do your best and you will never let yourself down! Also, mistakes are simply that; the important part is picking yourself up and moving forwards. You are going to be just fine!
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your advice and guidance. I really appreciate your thoughtful response—it means a lot to have reassurance and support during difficult times. Your advice is truly valuable, and I’ll be sure to reflect on it and put it into practice.
Thanks again for your kindness and encouragement!
Krish