Help, Tarun!

Q: I am a class XII student (CBSE) interested in becoming a commercial pilot. But, I have heard that pilot training schools in India are very expensive. What is the alternative and should I pursue this immediately after finishing 12th?
You are entitled to a student pilot licence after 10+2. You can then join a flight school. There are many flight schools recognised by DGCA. Check out http://www.webindia123.com/career/travel/flyclub.htm for details. And remember, such courses are not cheap, either in India or abroad.

Q: I am currently doing Physics (Hons), second year. I have learnt a few languages like C++ and am interested in a career in very large scale integration (VLSI). What should I do?
Check out institutes that have courses in VLSI—like CDAC—a list is available on http://in.geocities.com/srinivasan_ v2001/technical/vlsi_training.html and you can choose according to your location. There is also a VLSI Society of India, an association with prominent personalities in the field as office-bearers. You could call up and ask for someone to mentor you. I am sure they would be happy to oblige and give you some information on prospects and the best institutes, etc. Go to http://vlsi-india.org/.

Answers to your career concerns are contributed by Tarun Sheth (Senior Consultant) and Shilpa Sheth (Managing Partner, US practice) of HR firm, Shilputsi Consultants. Write to Help,Tarun! c/o Business Today, Videocon Tower, Fifth Floor, E-1, Jhandewalan Extn., New Delhi—110055.