What are career prospects like in the field of artificial intelligence? — Ramya Rangisetty, Hyderabad Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the theory and development of computer systems capable of performing tasks requiring human intelligence such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making and language translation. In recent years, AI has transformed from a niche into mainstream computer science, and is making visible inroads into our everyday lives. Top IT and internet companies are investing billions in AI research. Career prospects for computer science graduates with specialisation in AI are excellent with employment opportunities easily available in IT/internet companies, banking, insurance, government R&D departments, telecommunications and consumer electronics. Which colleges in India offer study programmes in paint technology? — Rupanshu Rastogi, Lucknow Paint technology is a specialised branch of chemical engineering, and involves study of the various ingredients — resin, polymers, pigments etc — used in the manufacture of paints. Paint technologists develop new products as well as enhance and upgrade quality of paints already in the market. Institutions which offer study programmes in this field include the University Institute of Chemical Technology, Jalgaon (Maharashtra) and Harcourt Butler Technological Institute, Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh). I wish to qualify as an eye specialist. What’s the difference between an ophthalmologist and optometrist? — Harman Preet Kaur, Dasuya Ophthalmology is a branch of medicine focused upon the anatomy, physiology and afflictions of the eye. Ophthalmologists are qualified medical practitioners and specialists in eye surgery. Optometrists on the other hand, examine eyes and test them to detect and diagnose sight defects and determine visual efficiency and performance, disease or other abnormalities through observation and with the aid of instruments. After examination, optometrists prescribe corrective measures to improve and correct vision, through the use of spectacles, contact lenses, low vision aids, appliances, vision therapy and control of visual environments. In case patients need further medical aid and advice, optometrists refer them to ophthalmologists. I am a US citizen currently residing in India. I want to pursue medicine in a US university. Do I need to write TOEFL? Also, please suggest universities which offer pre-med courses. — Prabhjot Gill, Mumbai, Direct entry into a MBBS/medical study programme in the US is impossible. Students must first obtain a bachelor’s degree, preferably a pre-medical course and clear the Medical College Admission Test. To qualify for a pre-med programme at the undergrad level in the US, you need to write SAT. Since you are a US citizen, TOEFL/IELTS scores aren’t required. Prominent universities offering pre-med courses include Columbia, Johns Hopkins, Northwestern and UC Berkeley. I am a class XII student interested in qualifying as an IT games developer. Please advise. — Vinay Rao, Vizag After completing Plus Two, sign up for a B.Sc degree in computer graphics and animation followed by a Masters/diploma/degree in gaming/games development. An undergrad degree in computer graphics and animation will equip you with a strong foundation for a career in games design and development. Moreover, you need to be well-acquainted with computer programming languages…
