As the cornerstone of civilisation, arts and humanities occupy a unique position in both real life and academia but are studied by fewer students year after year. There are many myths surrounding the arts, the most prominent being that they develop no employable skills. We at Youth Inc believe otherwise
From time immemorial, careers in the arts and humanities have been adjudged as unimportant. For the few who do choose them to consider them add-on degrees to their more crucial ‘moneymaking’ qualifications; careers in medicine, engineering, science and management are often given precedence over humanities.
India is a country that prepares its youth to choose careers based on employment. We are not encouraged to study that which will facilitate nourishment of the mind and enrichment of thoughts. The millions of students who, year after year, choose to be doctors, engineers and businesspersons are testaments to this. Hundreds of thousands of applicants jostle for a place in one of the IITs and IIMs. This kind of competition is virtually non-existent in the arts.
In an attempt to resurrect enthusiasm in the arts, we break away from MBAs, MBBSs and MEs and look and careers in psychology, sociology, English literature, history, political science, languages, philosophy, economics and more. Society likes to reiterate that a degree in the humanities is useless in this day and age of fierce competition. To that claim we respond here; the several professionals from varied arts streams we have spoken to annotate what it has been like for them to go from having an affinity for a subject to pursuing it as a full-time career and loving every moment of it. Society can keep its argument with itself.
Perhaps the most fascinating aspect of the arts is its focus on lateral thinking. While science and commerce will get you the job you have always wanted, they do not shape your thoughts and stimulate a certain curiosity the arts does.
Since arts engage with the mind and expand its worldview, those with majors in political science, history, sociology, law, theology, etc have seemingly limitless careers to choose from. From writers to lawyers, academia to government officials, the allure of the arts truly lies in the fact that it moulds an individual to introspect and to think for humankind.
There are so many reasons to study literature, starting with the need to satiate one’s appetite for stories. Literature opens windows to humanity’s mind and soul, from its past to its present
For any bookworm, a specialisation in literature seems to be a given. You already like reading, so might as well get a degree out of it! The truth is that the study of literature is a lot more than meets the eye. It is not merely reading a bunch of books and answering questions about them. However, this misconception is so wide spread that not only do parents actively dissuade their children from taking up literature, but students themselves give it a miss in the fear that it cultivates no life skills.
Literature is a window into another mind – a mind full of fancies, crazy ideas and absurd notions. A piece of writing is also a representation of its time – society, politics, culture, traditions and trends influence every writer. People of the past communicate to you in the future through their writing. Literature requires us to first engage with the text – discover and discuss its issues and values. This analytical approach sharpens a sense of judgment in students. Second, literature exhorts us to communicate better with our fellow beings so ideas may continue to be exchanged. And finally, literature exposes to us the beauty and dynamic nature of language and instils an appreciation for the creativity, originality, intellectualism and aestheticism of the ideas presented.
Study Route
* Class 12 arts (with English as an elective subject)/ science/commerce
* BA English Literature (offered with honours in several colleges)
* MA English Literature
* One could do diploma and certificate courses in a cognate discipline like creative writing
Popular Figures
FAMOUS ENGLISH LITERATURE GRADUATES INCLUDE:
• Ayushmann Khurrana
• Anita Desai
• Barkha Dutt
• James Franco
• Steven Spielberg
• Emma Watson
Careers
Since literature is usually chosen by those who are fond of reading and have a flair for writing, many graduates go into journalism, publishing, public relations and advertising. Most literature graduates aim to become professional writers. Teaching is also a viable option for many.
When studied with other subjects, the number of career options increase – combining literature with political science, for example, could lead to a career in civil services. Combined with performing arts, literature graduates can become scriptwriters and film/theatre/ music critics. With sociology, one could become a literary researcher in different cultures.
Course Canvas
* Loyola College, Chennai
* Lady Shri Ram College for Women, New Delhi
* St. Stephen’s College, New Delhi
* St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
* English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad
Experts Speak
Shriya Ghate, Tinkle Digest editor and award-winning graphic story writer shares some insights into her job as a raconteur
In college, I began writing my own blog and had more writing opportunities while I was pursuing a media degree. After that, I joined Cartwheel Features and worked there as a scriptwriter for a year and a half. That is when I began to take my writing seriously and see it as a career. Subsequently, I worked for Hindustan Times and then I did an MA at The University of Warwick in the UK.
I am interested in art and aesthetics, and comic books are a great place to combine both of them. I get a lot of freedom to write what I want as compared to fixed frameworks most magazines have to follow. Thirdly, to watch your story come alive is an exhilarating feeling!
Unless you get into publishing I don’t see much scope for fiction. There is scope for non-fiction though, in magazines and newspapers. You can write a book and make lots of money but even that is a gamble.
At Tinkle with a contract of writing 25 pages of content a month, the writer is paid Rs. 15,000.
Writing stories, converting them into a script, checking proofs and page layouts and working with the art director to ensure that the visuals have come out right.
The minute you tell someone that you work with Tinkle, the biggest comic brand for children in India, doors open up for you. You not only get a lot of respect from people around you but your work also begins to get noticed. The brand you write for makes a difference.
Not many people can manage the thin line that exists between writing for kids and writing about kids. One always has to be politically correct. For example Tinkle did not feature Valentine’s Day and a story that had the word ‘kiss’ in the script. There is a very strict language policy that we have to follow.
A story for kids must have a definite beginning, middle and end. If one only thinks in terms of concept one does not end up writing a good plot.
Writing for comics needs to be done in terms of dialogue and visual appeal, and not written in prose or for providing information. Making the story compact is also a challenge.
Always begin a story by writing only three or four lines and then seeing if that works as a backbone. Writers must try and write the same story from different points of view to give perspective to their work.
A story must have a definite beginning, middle and end. If one only thinks in terms of concept one does not write a good plot. Comics need to be done in terms of dialogue and visual appeal.
Psychology is not about mind-reading and giving advice; it’s about finding out what makes people tick
Psychology walks the tightrope between arts and science. Let’s put it like this – psychology is the art of the scientific study of the human mind. The subject doesn’t teach you how to read minds; on the contrary, it tells you how to uncover the workings of a mind. Psychologists deal with brain functioning, perception, emotions, motivations, personality, behaviour,relationsips, attention, cognition and more.
Psychologists use their expertise to help people in a number of ways. It’s not just the mentally ill who need psychologists; anyone and everyone who is concerned with their mental faculties may approach a psychologist.
Today psychology is a vast subject with many aspects to it. Some fields of study are clinical, developmental, biological, cognitive, evolutionary, comparative, industrial, and social psychology. Psychologists are in demand as well; schools are among the largest employers of psychologists.
The study of this subject sharpens one’s analytical skills. Its scientific approach demands objectivity, meticulousness and curiosity. At the same time, it harnesses one’s empathy, and listening and communication skills.
* Class 12 arts (with psychology as an elective subject)/science/commerce
* BA/BSc Psychology (students from any stream can generally apply for the BSc)
* MA/MSc Psychology (numerous specialisations available – counselling, clinical, human resource development and management, industrial, social, etc)
* Additionally, there are postgraduate diplomas in areas ranging from clinical to criminal and forensic psychology.
* One is generally allowed to practise as a psychologist after completing a master’s degree
FAMOUS PSYCHOLOGY GRADUATES INCLUDE:
• Preity Zinta
• Shabana Azmi
• Natalie Portman
• Jon Stewart
• Shobhaa De
Within psychology itself there are numerous options: counselling, clinical, forensic, occupational, educational, sport and exercise, and more. Psychology is useful in just about every field – insight into human behaviour improves interactions, memory, coping mechanisms and communication.
COURSE CANVAS
• Jesus and Mary College, New Delhi
• Presidency College, Chennai
• Christ University, Bangalore
• Sophia College for Women, Mumbai
• Fergusson College, Pune
Expert Speak
Psychologist Tara Kulkarni talks passionately about her profession and dispels the many myths surrounding it
I have two master’s degrees: MSc in clinical psychology from the UK, and MA in counselling psychology from Mumbai University. There are a lot of diplomas available (2-6 month courses in counselling), but if you are serious about the profession you must complete a full-time master’s degree.
Currently, I am a full-time school psychologist. My responsibilities include screening children with learning disabilities, crisis counselling, group and individual therapy and running mental health workshops for students, teachers and staff.
Each day is different – there has never been a day I got bored. I get to be the support and mentor to kids who may not have that kind of security at home. Every day there is a new challenge, new people to meet, new ideas to try out, and more opportunities to help.
The scope is widening, slowly but surely. Recently the Maharashtra government made it mandatory for every school to have a psychologist. There are too few clinical psychologists for the population as well. Starting your own clinic is tough if you rely only on therapy. Most psychologists supplement this by making money through testing – IQ, learning disability, personality, etc. You can also go into research and academics, which is pretty lucrative.
Your income varies depending on your education, clients and motivation. PhDs have the highest earning bracket as they are preferred by high paying clients like corporates and hospitals. An MA graduate will earn about Rs. 15,000 a month when starting. The salary graph peaks sharply later, especially if you have your own clinic or is you provide corporate workshops. If it’s one thing us psychologists have in common is that we don’t do it for the money.
Work starts early. I act as an observer for any pre-school kids who show early signs of learning disability or emotional disturbances. I have scheduled sessions with senior students (including group therapy). All through the day, students are sent to the counselling department. I end the day with paperwork as everything I do needs to be documented. It’s quite fluid actually. That’s the fun part. I hardly have a routine.
The perks of being a school psychologist are quite a few: the different personalities I deal with, the opportunity to help shape young minds, the feeling of empowerment you get by empowering children with choices, the satisfaction of bringing about change in kids who have been written off, etc. Plus, I get paid quite decently and my work hours are comfortable. The challenges lie in convincing adults that there are better ways to bring out the best in a child. Also, the time I get with the kids is not always sufficient for proper therapy.
Giving advice is the last skill one needs. If your session is advice giving, your supervisor will probably fail you. The skills needed are the ability to listen and put yourself in another person’s shoes, objectivity, open mindedness, communication skills, and curiosity and analytical skills.
Study as much as you can; do not settle for diploma courses. Aim for the best educational institute. Don’t get disheartened by the monetary prospects. If you have a passion for the subject, go for it!
Giving advice is the last skill one needs to be a therapist. If your session is advice giving, your supervisor will probably fail you
Sociology has come on its own as a respected field of study. All sectors, from the government to private players, recognise the worth of sociologists today
If you are one who is enchanted by the crowd but doesn’t follow it, sociology might be the subject for you. As someone fascinated by human behaviour, but not lured by it, you’d have the first requisite quality of sociologists.
Sociologists study the behaviour of people in groups, starting with two individuals to a whole country. Their work reveals how the actions of man shape societies, cultures and mankind’s collective consciousness. At a micro level, sociology throws light on matters like gender issues, racial identity, romantic love, family conflicts, religion, abnormal behaviour, etc. At a macro level, sociology studies war, economic development, population growth and migration, etc.
Sociology too relies on scientific methods in data gathering and evidence analysis. Sociologists use surveys, study historical documents, analyse everyday trends, study census data, as well as interview people in a number of settings.
One can choose among industrial sociology, medical sociology, urban and rural sociology, etc for specialising. The knowledge of social processes may be applied in any industry. Governments and NGOs benefit from sociologists for their insights into crime, the disparity between the rich and the poor, community values, social movements and more. In the private sector, sociologists are valuable in human resources related positions.
Study Route
* Class 12 arts (with sociology as an elective subject)/ science/commerce
* BA Sociology (may be studied with anthropology)
* MA Sociology
* Diplomas and certificate courses in related social science subjects are available, like gerontology, counselling, etc
Popular Figures
NOTABLE PERSONALITIES WITH A SOCIOLOGY DEGREE ARE:
• Vidya Balan
• Aditya Roy Kapur
• Kal Penn
• Martin Luther King
• Michelle Obama
• James Blunt
Careers
With a bachelor’s degree, sociology graduates would be best suited in any sector in either a social or welfare position. Government bodies and agencies, educational institutes and charities hire sociologists. The civil services are also a good option.
Some other roles that may require a deeper knowledge of the subject are teaching, social work, social policy, career counselling, human resource management and law. A postgraduate qualification is recommended for those who wish to enter these fields.
COURSE CANVAS
• Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• Miranda House, New Delhi
• Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai
• Osmania University, Hyderabad
• University of Madras, Chennai
Expert Speaks
Karishma Gupta talks about how her sociology degree led to social work and why a job helping other people is immensely gratifying
While studying anthropology and sociology at graduation, I had developed a keen interest in indigenous cultures and developmental issues of marginalised communities. Social work provided a space to express this interest to work for social development with the appropriate approach, knowledge, attitude and skills.
I am Program Assistant at CHILDLINE India Foundation, a mother NGO appointed by the Ministry of Women & Child Development to the CHILDLINE 1098 24X7 toll-free helpline service for children in distress. I’m responsible for monitoring and evaluating the implementation of the service by NGO partner organisations in Gujarat.
I travel every month to diverse locations and meet and interact with different cultural communities and get acquainted with the work of various NGOs. I also interact with government officials at all levels and am treated with respect by IAS and IPS officers. There is also a freedom to widen the scope of the service and develop innovative ideas.
Being a multidisciplinary field, social work uses a wide range of approaches, skills and techniques to address issues at societal, communal, familial and individual levels. Hence the scope is vast and multifaceted. In India a lot of national and international funding is focused on health, nutrition and education, hence companies that work in this field would provide better growth opportunities.
Salaries can range from Rs. 10,000 to even Rs. 1 lakh per month, depending on experience, skill set and educational qualification. Graduates or postgraduates of social work with zero work experience can expect Rs. 10,000- 15,000 as starting salary.
A typical day starts with checking emails from partners; guiding them on intervening in critical cases such as child labour, a child lost and found, and child abuse; discussing performances; sharing travel experiences; developing action plans and evaluating activity reports.
It gives a sense of fulfilment to know that your job has helped someone in distress and made a positive difference to his/her life. It develops an informed world view, patience, understanding, empathy and openness, and makes one more socially and politically aware.
However, as social work has not gained much recognition in India, it is often misunderstood as voluntary service done by shabbily dressed selfless people. Work can be very demanding and frustrating as sometimes your targets or plans may not work the way you hope to due to larger, uncontrollable factors.
Empathy, self-awareness, patience, good listening ability, problem-solving and analytical skills, knowledge and understanding of human behaviour and relationships, flexibility, open-mindedness, communication skills (verbal and non-verbal), and sensitivity and tact to draw boundaries. It is beneficial to be fluent in English and your local language.
This profession is not a cake-walk. There will be struggles in initial years to find the right company, job and pay scale. Make informed decisions with regard to the group/community you want to work with, development issues you want to address and the skills sets you to have to contribute in this field. If you have the passion and dedication to work for change, you will love this job.
History encapsulates in it the study of past events and how they affected human existence. An influencer of thought, the subject explores varied facets of what we today call the present while also adding perspective to it
From a teacher to an archaeologist, a historian has a number of career routes that can be chosen. Through the course of study, a student of history will be introduced to different civilisations and cultures. Some of them are Greek, Mesopotamian, Egyptian and even Indian. As a student, an individual will learn to analyse historical events and occurrences that shaped a particular generation while also weighing their importance in modern times. Students of the subject are also involved in tracing and restoring monuments and also conducting necessary research on them.
Study Route
* Class 12 arts (with history as an elective subject)/science/commerce
* BA History
* MA History
* Students from any discipline can do a diploma or a postgraduate course in history or archaeology, but those with a humanities background are given preference.
Popular Figures
FAMOUS HISTORY GRADUATES INCLUDE:
• Steve Carell
• Sacha Baron Cohen
• George W. Bush
• Conan O’Brien
• Edward Norton
Careers
Other than an obvious career as part of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), museums and historical centres, the subject of history diverges into a number of different sectors. A history graduate can choose the profession of an educator, art and museum curator, museum researcher, journalist and writer, archivist, lawyer and paralegal, think tank researcher, etc.
COURSE CANVAS
• Goa University, Taleigao
• Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• University of Delhi, New Delhi
• Deccan College, Pune
• Fergusson College, Pune
• Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
• St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
Archaeologist Ruta Waghmare has a passion for her profession and a love for all things period
Ever since I realised that archaeology was my calling, I decided to major in history for my bachelor’s degree. During my final year, I enrolled in a course on ancient Indian arts and sciences at the Centre for Extra-Mural Studies from Mumbai University where I was not only introduced to the basic concepts but also had an opportunity to interact with senior archaeologists. It was through this course that I got a taste of archaeological excavation. I had the opportunity to volunteer at an archaeological site in Junnar, Pune and really understand what an excavation meant. After graduating, I went on to get my master’s degree in archaeology from Deccan College.
I currently work in a museum. I assist the curator with the museum’s permanent collection which includes managing the objects in the museum’s collection, documenting them and conducting research for the same.
It allows me to follow my passion; I get to handle and study rare objects up close; in a small way, I am contributing to preserving our collective history for future generations.
Archaeology is already an established academic discipline but is now slowly getting popular recognition as well. Indian art and archaeological studies are now on the world map and scholars from abroad and India is exploring and excavating several new sites. There is a tremendous scope for archaeological research if the government backs its institutions. Within the profession, the growth avenues vary tremendously. One can opt for research and teaching positions, work with the Archaeological Survey of India or with museums.
Archaeology, fieldwork and research demand expertise that can only be attained with experience. The initial years require an investment of time and effort. With it comes an increase in earning. Entry-level salaries vary with institutions. It can be anywhere between Rs. 10,000 and Rs. 30,000 per month.
During excavations, the day begins at 5 am and ends before sunset. Discoveries like the smallest shards of pottery and ivory beads are painstakingly documented and celebrated with equal enthusiasm. At a museum, an entire day can be spent reading or studying a single object, a painting or figurine. Once a week, all objects in the collection are checked for signs of damage. During exhibitions, I help the team with installations and related research. At times I also provide guided tours of the museum to general visitors or distinguished scholars.
I learn something new every day! I have also gained a new perspective; I understand why we are the way we are. I’ve been to places in the country which I would not have been able to visit otherwise. The biggest perk is meeting accomplished academicians and artists. As for challenges, archaeology is physically demanding; you need to dig, excavate, eat local food and live in harsh conditions. Working in a museum has its own challenges. Accuracy is crucial. Museums also require long working hours close to the opening of exhibitions.
The ability to adjust to working conditions, discipline, an eye for detail and patience. An archaeologist’s job is much like a detective’s – you need to find and understand the smaller pieces to be able to understand the puzzle.
Expose yourself to fieldwork as early as possible. It is only when you work on-field can you understand the subject. Be passionate about history, culture, artefacts and bones. Archaeology is not an Indiana Jones movie with treasure hunts.
Politics may be seen as a dirty profession, but political science is a field of study that requires much intellectual prowess and sharp reasoning skills
Political science is the study of the state, government, politics and policies of the government. Students of political science study political systems as well as political cultures in a great detail.
One cannot analyse a government without considering its history, culture, laws, economic policies, public policy, public administration, international relations, and to a certain extent even the sociology and psychology of the people it governs. Modern political science accommodates the study of human behaviour within the realm of politics, which means political analysts and scientists observe not just institutions but also political figures. This has lead to the introduction of more concentrated subjects in higher education; students can now study political philosophy and political behaviour, apart from political institutions.
Students of political science develop not only reasoning and analytical skills, but also communication skills, both oral and written. The subject makes one more aware of both domestic and international affairs, and since one needs to be knowledgeable of numerous cognate fields, political science truly shapes one to be an all-round expert. Besides, as a political science graduate, you may also finally understand the bizarre behaviour of some politicians!
Study Route
* Class 12 arts (with political science as an elective subject)/ science/ commerce
* BA Political Science
* MA Political Science
Popular Figures
POLITICAL SCIENCE GRADUATES INCLUDE:
• Cyrus Broacha
• Vikram Chandra (NDTV journalist)
• Hilary Clinton
• David Cameron
• Benazir Bhutto
Careers
There are various career opportunities as a political scientist apart from just being a politician in the usual sense. As a political scientist, one can work for a government, a research organisation, a non-profit organisation, a political lobby group or even a business house. Additionally, political scientists serve as advisers to politicians.
Political science graduates also find work in organisations that deal with public affairs, public administration, planning, international relations and diplomacy. Teaching and academia is another viable career option.
The civil services would also be an appropriate career choice.
COURSE CANVAS
• Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• Delhi University, New Delhi
• University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
• Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
• University of Calcutta, Kolkata
Expert Speaker
Vaagisha, a political analyst for a macroeconomic and financial risk consultancy, reveals the thrills of her job
I studied journalism and mass communication at Amity University and simultaneously enrolled for a BA in political science at the University of Delhi, and graduated from both together. Thereafter, I studied MSc in comparative politics (Asia) at London School of Economics and Political Science where I took major courses in conflict studies.
I cover risk scenarios for most emerging economies spanning across Asia, Latin America, Central Europe, parts of Africa, Levante and the Gulf. It is basically an advisory to foreign investors for a given country on broad and sectorial risks. I also write a structural analysis on geopolitics on other news sites as my personal interest lies in conflict resolution strategies.
I deal with several countries in a month – as a comparative political student, it is very exciting. Second, the vastness of knowledge and information the job presents keeps me an inquisitive student. Third, I absolutely like attending conferences/seminars where I meet experts and other analysts. These events expose one to new, unique and fresh insights.
There are limited MNCs, foreign companies and think tanks offering positions such as political analysts, researchers and associates. Most countries rely on reports from think tanks and research experts for policy formulation, and India lags behind. Many Indian researchers look for opportunities abroad. Perhaps the government can be instrumental in strengthening this field of work.
Remuneration of a political analyst is entirely dependent on the hiring company and also years of experience the person has amassed. The income is not determined from the applicant’s qualification in isolation.
Policymakers, diplomats and senior officials are smart and talented and consider themselves politically savvy.
For independent political analysts/consultants to help policymakers, they must bring something to the party. To be considered important, the analyst needs to be credible. Additionally, broad historical-cultural contexts matter while making your point to senior officials. So the challenge is to present a relevant, timely, expert and objective matter to create an impact.
Requisite Skills
Be aware of your own country’s politico-socio history and culture; study other countries in depth both from outside and inside their perspective; read what other eminent analysts and thinkers perceive; know how civilians of a country respond to their own socio-political synergy. If you know a foreign language it is an added advantage.
Advice for Aspiring Political Analysts
You cannot be very precise in your forecasting or analysis like economists who have quantitative data to back their matter. But if you are a keen observer of history and present, and can articulate your thoughts, you can contribute to this field.
Most countries rely on reports from think tanks and research experts for policy formulation, and India lags behind. Many Indian researchers look for opportunities abroad
Careers in linguistics and languages is a result of the marriage of globalisation and world cultures. To enhance business opportunities and bring the world closer, a career in languages is the need of the hour
The world is becoming a smaller place with people from across the globe coming closer. This has led to a potpourri of international cultures and local languages.
The field of linguistics and languages is vast. Linguistics is the scientific study of languages – the structure, the physical properties of speech and the context in which it is used. The study of languages on the other hand, involves an in-depth study of one language, the culture it is associated with and the people who speak it. Often stduents of languages travel to counrties where the language originated from to get accquainted with the locals and the culture first hand. Language is a part of linguistics.
A linguist is someone who investigates how people acquire their knowledge of a particular language; they study the structure of that language and how it may be used in different contexts. A degree in the subject gives one the ability to communicate in another language fluently. The study of languages also opens a lot of doors to different countries and cultures and the opportunities that lie there.
Study route
* Class 12 arts (with English and history)/science/commerce
* BA in any subject
* MA with specialisation in linguistics
* Various international embassies offer certificate courses in their native languages.
* Diploma course in translation are offered by several institutes and universities throughout India
Popular Figures
FAMOUS LINGUISTICS AND LANGUAGE GRADUATES INCLUDE:
• Aristotle
• Noam Chomskey
• Chris Martin
• J.K. Rowling
• Brooke Shields
• Ashley Judd
Careers
A degree in linguistics lets you work in a lot of different industries. One could always turn to teaching, but if you wish to interact with people from across the globe, you could become a translator or an interpreter. Linguists can also work in the computer industry working on speech recognition, and text to speech translation. BPOs employ people who are proficient in a number of languages, and companies also employ people with a degree in languages for their foreign correspondence. Linguistics also opens up job opportunities in publishing, editing and writing. They can also work for preservation and documentation of archives of primitive languages. A career in lexicography is also viable.
COURSE CANVAS
• University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
• Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• University of Delhi, New Delhi
• University of Mumbai, Mumbai
• Alliance Francaise, centres in Mumbai, New Delhi, Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Chennai, Kolkata and more
Mrunal Shah, the head of CMM Languages, shares his experiences as a professional translator and interpreter
How I Became a Translator
I always had a penchant for languages and also scored betters marks in languages than other regular subjects. I started learning foreign languages while I was doing a diploma in English and then continued learning languages until I finished a BE in computers. I learnt Spanish and a bit of German too. I had an opportunity to attend a youth exchange programme at Poland where I met several other students from Europe. I would practice by speaking to them in Spanish.
Responsibilities at Work
Currently, I head translation and localisation at CMM Languages and Web Services, solely a language translation company founded by my wife and I. My current role in the organisation is more focused on marketing and day-to-day operations.
3 Things I Love about My Job
I know at least one person in every important country! This field has made me aware of different cultures that exist throughout the world. Everyday there is something new to learn; in the last 6 years I don’t recollect any boring day.
Scope In India
The scope for professional translators is immense. You have an option to be a translator, interpreter, reviewer, voice over artist, to name a few. In order to be a professional translator it’s important to learn language as a subject and know all its rules.
The Money
Professional translators can earn at least Rs. 30, 000 per month. Beyond that it’s your expertise and how you make use of technology in this field.
A Typical Day at Work
Translators spend their entire day translating documents from one language to another, making use of online dictionaries to find the meaning of new words. Along with that, interpreters interact with clients in two languages for about five to seven hours a day.
Perks
Translators normally work from an office space but interpreters are always on the go. Meeting new people, travelling places, being updated with what’s happening in the market are few of the perks very few fields can offer.
Requisite Skills
Love for language is the only thing that one needs to become a translator. One needs to be attentive to how people speak, their accent and their use of words which are hard to find in a dictionary.
Advice for Aspiring Linguists
Be a part of this field only if you love languages, culture, people and geographies. As a translator you need to keep a vigilant eye on current affairs and stay updated as learning a language is a continuous process.
Love for language is the only t hing that one needs to become a translator. One needs to be attentive to how people speak, their accent and their use of words
The versatile realm of the arts has many more specialisations that study different facets of the human experience. Here is a closer look at those subjects
Anthropology
Anthropology is the study of humankind from all ages, past and present. It brings together biological sciences, humanities and social sciences. Anthropology typically has a four-field approach: biological or physical anthropology, social anthropology or cultural anthropology, archaeology and anthropological linguistics, each of which has numerous fields.
Careers
Education, health care, art curation, publishing, culture studies, psychology, law, policy making in private and public sectors, forensics.
Economics
The spending of individuals, households and organisations is broadly what makes up economics. Economists are responsible for undertaking major economic decisions as part of companies and businesses, and are crucial in the growth and development of countries.
Careers
Economic or business writing, marketing, banking, government, finance, insurance, think tanks.
Philosophy
Philosophy is the Study of basic questions and causes that are part of human life and existence. The human mind, its values and the cause for human existence chiefly make up philosophy. Once the questions have been identified, a student of philosophy goes onto analyse causes of the questions and also seeks answers for them. Philosophical solutions to problems include careful analyses using critical and reasonable thinking methods.
Careers
Law, government, marketing, publishing industry, science, NGOs, teaching, administration departments in universities and companies.
Library science is a multidisciplinary field of the practices, perspectives and tools of organisation of libraries. Pursuing a career in library sciences doesn’t only include organising, maintaining, storing and issuing books; it has evolved to be much more than that. Today, a career in the field translates into handling humongous amounts of unorganised information or even a full-fledged profession in teaching. Good communication skills, the knack for organising information and converting chaos to calm are the skills required for a librarian.
Careers
Librarian at school and college libraries, and public libraries; information professional for companies; administrative positions like department head, library director, chief information officer, data management official and library technician.
Theology
Theology is the study of religion and, to put it simply, God. A student of theology weighs the existence and the truth behind deities or one particular deity. Students of this discipline usually study within a school of divinity and with a view to teach, proclaim or be part of a religion.
Careers
Priests, nuns, education, religious counsellors in medical institutes, social worker, publishing industry.
Performing Arts
As the study of dance, theatre, music and cinema, performing arts is one of the most popular arts subject. Performing arts goes beyond the boundaries of practical knowledge. It goes on to include intense and detailed theoretical knowledge in dance, cinema or music.
Careers
Educator, dancer, musician, actor, theatre personality, choreographer, scriptwriter, stage technician.
Classics
Often considered to be the cornerstone in the careers of humanities, a classicist studies a wide variety of areas that include art, literature, civilisation and history under Greek and Roman culture. A student often studies both cultures or just one of them.
Careers
Archiving, law, publishing industry, education, art curating, media.
Law
As a universal code of conduct in a country, law has numerous fields of practice. Criminal law deals with misconduct and violation of human rights that are punishable by imprisonment or fine. Corporate law pertains to legalities within the ever growing industrial sector. Industrial law and civil law encompass the resolution of lawsuits between individuals and companies. Family law deals with family feuds, domestic violence, etc. The ambit of legal studies is vast and covers almost all facets of human relationships.
Careers
Notary, barrister, legal activist, social worker, legal writer, paralegal.
Visual Arts
The studies of art, culture and civilisations have visuals in crucial roles. In fact, interpretations of a number of cultures have been possible only because of the use of visuals and art. Visual art includes drawings, paintings and even sculpture. World cultures like Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek and Indian came to the fore because of their vivid use of varied visual art forms.
Careers
Art curator and historian, art collector, painter, artist, educator, designer.
Gender Studies
Gender Studies investigates the actual (physical and biological) gender differences between women and men, but thinks especially critically about what these differences mean in a socio-cultural context. This field includes women’s studies concerning women, feminism, gender and politics; men’s studies; and LGBT studies, and it is often offered with the study of sexuality. These disciplines are then studied with respect to other subjects of humanities.
Careers
Public policy, social service, education, writing, management, counselling, publishing, international relationships.
Volume 3 Issue 12
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In 2016, COEP Technological University introduced Impressions, an annual cultural fest designed to celebrate creativity…
Mental health challenges have become a global concern, with one in every eight people worldwide…
