Feeling Stuck Between MBA and My Passion for Computers – Should I Switch Paths Now?

Career Advice Needed: Stuck Between MBA and IT

Hi, I'm Ishvinder. I want some advice about my career. I have always had an interest in computers, and I am good with it. I'm the techy type. I couldn't do Computer Engineering because I had commerce in 10+2. So, I did BCA. Then my parents told me to do a PG course that would help me get a good job. At that time, all I could see were MCA or MBA. But after BCA, I found that I'm not interested in the software field or programming, and I'm not good with mathematics. So, I thought MBA would be better as it was only 2 years and mostly theoretical, which would be easier.

I joined for MBA and deposited the 1st-year fees, 75,000 Rs (total is 150,000 for 2 years). But after a month, I realized that it was a totally different world, and I belong in computers only. I handled some computer-related problems in college. Even classmates and teachers questioned why I did MBA. I tried to leave, but they said the fee would not be refunded. A friend suggested doing MBA in IT instead. The college offers dual specialization in Marketing, Finance, and HR.

My 2nd-semester exams are ongoing, and I am very confused about whether I should deposit another 75,000 for the 2nd year and continue the course or leave the course right now, which would waste my 1 year and fees.

I'm interested in computers, networking, etc., and I want to be a computer or network engineer, administrator, or at least have a job where I get to work on a computer. A friend suggested doing courses like CCNA, MCSE, etc.

I'm already 22 years old. What should I do?

Career Path Advice for a Tech Enthusiast

See, sitting near a computer will not give you money. By doing that, you are wasting your time and your parents' money. Realize your strengths and work on your weaknesses. Coming from a commerce background and pursuing an MBA, you have skills in computers. Envision yourself as a techno-commercial person. Consider joining an IT or telecom company and exploring opportunities in the sales field. This way, you can effectively combine your education and computer knowledge.

Many HR recruiters may not be aware that some IT sales professionals can also handle IT admin tasks when needed, such as software installation, troubleshooting, network flow design, system maintenance, etc. In certain IT companies, you may find branch managers handling the entire branch independently, from administration to IT to sales, like antivirus companies in India.

You can gain practical computer knowledge on the job rather than through courses.

Regards

Hey Ishvinder, Just chill! Relax. Don't be so confused. I've understood your situation. Even I am doing my PGDM (done with the first year). It seems like you made the decision to do an MBA not out of interest, but rather in an eliminating manner that other courses are not suitable or for any other reason. I think you should go ahead with your course since you've already completed the 1st year. Stay with the course, and by the end of this academic year, you would fit into a good job too. During your placements, try to get into an IT-based company so that if there is any chance, you can even shift into your desired choice within the same company. Meanwhile, try learning some advanced courses from certified institutes which would add value to your IT knowledge so that you would have a better edge if you wish to shift.

Feeling Unsuitable in MBA with a Computer Background

Coming to the point that you feel you are at an unsuitable place (MBA) hailing from a computer background in graduation, don't forget you were a commerce student in 10+2. It's the same level for most of the MBA opting guys unless and until you are from BBA or BBM. I'm saying this because I am a science graduate with biology in the +12 level too, and it's okay to continue this way.

Hope this helps you find a solution and reduce the turmoil in your head.

Regards, M0n!c@

Please complete your MBA with a good percentage and commitment. You know, for all the activities you engage in, when you climb up the career ladder, it will provide great support to you.

After your MBA, you can pursue MCA through correspondence, completing it in three years. During these three years, as one of your friends mentioned, consider going for some IT Sales or Tech Sales, where your skills and technical knowledge will be of great importance to any organization.

This path will lead you to a bright career.

Thank You,
Uday Kodati

Thank you to all of you for your suggestions. However, even if I continue my MBA, I am still confused about the streams as there is no IT available, only Marketing, Finance, and HR. I am confused again.

Marketing

Marketing is very easy to study and interesting, but people say you have to be out on the streets for marketing jobs, and I prefer to work in an office.

Finance

I am not good with mathematics. I only like simple calculations of addition and subtraction. I dislike complex concepts like the 'simplex method' and algebra. That's why I didn't take non-medical subjects in the 12th grade.

HR

HR is okay, but some say it has limited scope, lower salary, and preference for females.

I have to choose a major and minor. What should I do?

Career Choices: Understanding Your Path

Initially, there is a struggle in each and every job. In finance, you will not get a core finance job. In HR, you will get a job to conduct interviews, screen resumes, etc., which is again very boring work. In marketing, you have to be out in the field.

What you should select totally depends on you. We can only suggest, but you will opt for what you want because you know yourself best, you know your skills, your area of interest. Marketing and HR are easier to learn and understand compared to finance.

Understand your area of interest because your whole life you will have to work in the same field. Maybe initially you won't get a good job, but after some experience, you will definitely find a good job. So, think about which field you should go into because you are the best judge of yourself.

Hey dear, life is not about doing things that you do not like, and a good person is someone who builds their career in any field they choose. So, never dwell on past decisions; just start your career and grow. Because the more you think, the more you may lag behind your goals. So, start now.