Students must strive to acquire skills that extend beyond the boundaries of their academic curriculum. Rather than waiting for someone else to teach them, they should take the initiative to learn independently and continuously upgrade their knowledge.

Social media should be used constructively and productively, not as a source of distraction or a means of wasting time. Likewise, students should avoid choosing a college solely based on information available on social media platforms.

The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is expanding rapidly, and students should learn how to create their own AI agents. Alongside their regular studies, they must focus on developing distinctive and additional skills that enhance their capabilities and employability.

Once the counselling rank list is released, students should make careful comparisons before finalising their choices. With cut-off marks expected to decline this year, it is advisable to prepare a list of colleges and record important details such as counselling codes and fee structures for easy reference.

When contacting colleges, students may find it beneficial to use a mobile number other than the one registered for counselling. Since the One-Time Password (OTP) will be sent only to the registered number, it is important to keep that number active throughout the admission process. After finalising their choices, students should take screenshots for future reference.

Keeping three photocopies of certificates ready can prove useful, particularly while applying for educational loans. Students should also become familiar with the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) and begin preparing for it as early as their second year of engineering studies. While choosing an engineering programme, they should also decide in advance which additional subjects and skills they need to pursue.

Technology evolves every year, making continuous skill development essential for remaining relevant. Students currently in college should prepare themselves for the technological landscape of 2030. Staying updated with emerging skills and technologies is crucial, as it is this preparedness that ultimately creates future employment opportunities.

— Jayaprakash Gandhi, Educational Consultant