Back in 2015, after taking a year off following my +2 exams to prepare for medical entrance, I faced a tough moment. I didn’t clear the exam and felt the need to change direction—to pursue engineering instead, which would mean taking another year of coaching.
It was a difficult decision for me and rather than discussing it face-to-face, I chose to express my thoughts in a letter. This was the first time I had ever written to my father, even though we lived under the same roof.
Below is a condensed and edited version of that letter, preserving only the essence of the conversation while respecting the privacy of the details. This serves as a personal reminder of that pivotal moment.
DEAR BABA,
Please read this letter carrying some crucial thoughts about my career. I want to take you back to July 2012, when we were uncertain about which college and subjects to choose after my 10th results.
At that time, I strongly opposed taking Biology as my 4th elective because I simply didn’t enjoy it or find any interest in it. From the time I was introduced to it in Class 9, I consistently struggled with it, scoring poorly.
Despite my reluctance, I was still pushed to choose it as my elective. As a result, my enthusiasm has steadily declined. In the lectures, I rarely grasp anything and this has only added to the pressure I feel.
Medicine and Biology are not for me. I understand that you want to see me succeed and earn respect in society, but how can I achieve that when I have no interest in the field?
I might come under temporary influence of your words and start preparing for medical entrance exam, but that would turn my life into a literal struggle.
Even if, by sheer luck, I managed to get through, I wouldn't be able to endure the long, tough journey of becoming a doctor. In the end, I would only end up being an average professional at best.
I admire prestigious engineering institutions like IITs and NITs. I know the lack of campus placements in many engineering colleges might concern you and I understand that.
But even after scoring a second division (58.66%) in my +2 exams, I don’t believe like I’ve lost my talent. In fact, this is the time for me to make a strong comeback!
However, if I’m forced to go down a path I have no passion for, I’ll lose faith in my own abilities.
I know you're concerned about the year gap and how that might affect future placements. But from what I’ve learned through conversations with seniors, it’s skills that matter the most in the long run, not just past scores.
Since I took a year off to prepare for the medical entrance, people might question this sudden shift to engineering. However, we shouldn’t be too concerned about what others think. I remember the points you raised years ago:
There are no doctors in our family!
My horoscope suggests that medicine is a suitable career for me!!
I’ve respected your decisions in the past, whether it was moving to a government school when we changed city, taking Biology in +2, or joining a medical coaching centre.
Everyone seems caught up in a never-ending race where students are pushed into careers they don’t truly want, just to meet societal expectations.
This time, however, I request that you let me follow my instincts. I’m seeking your supportive approval, not just to avoid displeasure. While sticking to choices that don’t align with my true interests might offer temporary satisfaction, it would ultimately be hurtful to me in the long run.
Do you remember when you were at a similar crossroads in your career, choosing between banking and a government service role?
You chose the later, and that single decision shaped our lives and provided us with everything we have today. Thanks to your efforts, we’re now looking forward to the next phase of our lives.
I hope that, in the future, you will be proud of my decision to pursue Engineering. As I take on responsibilities once you step back from your current role, I aim to have established myself professionally by then.
I truly believe that one day, I will achieve significant success and make everyone at home proud.
Your journey from a small village to where you are now is truly inspiring to me. If you’re curious about my own dreams, here they are:
Studying at a prestigious institution of national or international stature.
Building a successful company.
Supporting underprivileged communities.
Writing some good quality books.
That’s it!
The thought of IIT excites me. Bhaktabandhu Nayak Sir, my former Mathematics teacher from Balasore Zilla School, has significantly influenced this dream. I want to pursue it sincerely.
I’ve been an obedient child, with no interest in anything other than books, while my peers are delving into new mobiles, movies, bike and what not!
I understand your concern about the uncertainty of gaining admission to a premier engineering institution next year. However, I ask for your belief in me and in almighty and let’s give it a try.
I plan to join an engineering coaching class in Bhubaneswar with renowned Kota-trained teachers, which will also allow me ample time for self-study due to its proximity.
Thank you for taking the time to read this entire letter. The choice is now yours, and I look forward to your decision.
Regards,
Sourav
Result:
I received permission to pursue a year of engineering coaching! Although the letter played a small part in this outcome, I didn't quite make it into the premier institution I had hoped for.
Nevertheless, I got the opportunity to study at Sambalpur University Institute of Information Technology (SUIIT), Burla and this experience ended up being incredibly meaningful and valuable.
Thank you, Baba!
