Today, there are various career options available for students and professionals. It has become a common trend for engineering students to do an MBA or study abroad. On the other hand, many companies are still keen on hiring engineering graduates who are fresh out of college and offer them attractive packages and a great work culture. This may put students in a dilemma.

What is the best way to go ahead for an engineering graduate? To take up a job or to study further, this article will help you clear this and other such doubts.

Don’t get too overwhelmed with choices:

Having too many options can be a boon as well as a bane. If you take too long to think, you might miss out on an interesting opportunity. Experts recommend that instead of evaluating too many routes at the same time, first, you must narrow down your options.  For example, if you want to study abroad or study in India is a choice you must make early on as your research pattern and effort will vary by the choice you make.

Backup is important:

If you haven’t picked one of the two career options, then give both a shot. Having a Plan B is a smart move. This means that if you want to study further, you shouldn’t disregard the placement option, because if you don’t land an admission in your dream college, then you have a backup ready. If your objective is to land a high-paying job, then strive for it. However, if you don’t get what you desire, then you might consider taking up a masters’ course.

Don’t get swayed by your peers:

Self-understanding is a must when it comes to making a future decision. There are several sources and information available on the internet, but get influenced only by the right information. If you don’t know what you must do ahead, take time to decide. Don’t feel demotivated by those who are focused around you. Speak to various people from the industry; seek advice from a professional counsellor, if you must. But don’t make a decision under pressure. Get clarity, because this one decision will impact your future.

Don’t overthink:

While it’s important to make thoughtful decisions, you shouldn’t overthink. Just believe in yourself and go with your intuition. Having said that, don’t make a hasty decision without proper research. If you think you will enjoy studying more than working, then it shouldn’t matter if your peers have landed their dream job. On the other hand, if you have landed a job in your final year, you must go for it. If you don’t like the job that you’re doing, you can always quit and pursue higher studies.

Bear in mind the eligibility criteria:

If you have made up your mind to choose higher studies over a job, then check the eligibility criteria. Many MBA institutions require a job experience and if your dream college requires work experience too, then you might have to reconsider your choice. Doing this homework beforehand will help you make an informed choice, leaving no scope for any regrets.

With these tips, making the right career choice will get simpler. Don’t worry too much about your future. If things don’t work out the way you expected them, you can always change it. The power lies within you. Good luck with your career.