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I’m keen on a career in psychology. What is the scope of this profession in India? — Harshita Bhalla, Delhi After completing an undergrad degree in the arts stream with psychology as a subject, you could opt for postgrad study in one of several psychology specialisations — clinical, counseling and guidance, developmental, cognitive, community and industrial. Psychologists are valued in research establishments, educational and professional institutions, prisons, hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centres, child/youth guidance centres, advertising agencies, market research, among other businesses and professions. In most branches of social work which require counseling services or study of human behavior, psychologists are in high demand.   I am interested in studying geography. What are my career prospects after graduation? – Shruti Karmakar, Hyderabad Geography is an earth science involving study of the surface of the earth, the location and distribution of its physical and cultural endowments and their interrelation with human beings. It offers several career options and numerous specialisations. For instance, you could specialise in cartography (mapmaking) involving the study and design of maps, charts and globes. I am a class XII student interested in qualifying as a food technologist. What are my study and employment options? — Harman Preet, Mumbai Several reputed institutions including CFTRI, Mysore, MS University, Baroda, and SNDT University, Mumbai offer B.Sc degree programmes in food sciences. You could follow up with a Masters programme. Employment opportunities for food technologists are excellent with the food and beverages industry said to be the fifth largest in the country. Food technologists with professional qualifications are readily absorbed by agri-produce processing companies, food research laboratories, wholesalers, retailers and by hotels, restaurants, hospitals and other catering establishments.    I’ve just completed class XII and my career goal is to become an IAS officer. Which subject/stream should I choose in my undergrad degree and what should my back-up plan be in case I don’t qualify? — Manas Malhotra, Ludhiana A graduate in any discipline is eligible to write the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam. However, you could consider enroling in an undergrad law programme as the course content will prepare you better for the UPSC exam. But please note that an estimated 800,000 aspirants write the UPSC exam annually for 1,000 vacancies in the Indian Administrative Service. The competition is intense with only the best passing muster, so it’s wise to have a back-up plan.    I’m interested in a career as a professional vocalist. How do I go about it? — Maria Jennifer, Kolkata The most common route to careers in music is through formal training in a professional institute or training under a guru of a particular style/school of music (vocal or instrumental). Most music schools offer basic instruction but formal training in the subject is usually in the form of bachelor’s degree courses after completing class XII. Among the institutions offering Indian classical music study programmes are the Indira Kala Sangit Vishwavidyalaya, Khairagarh; Viswa Bharati, Shantiniketan; Shriram Bharatiya Kala Kendra College of Music and Dance, New Delhi and…