Hi Mam, My daughter just completed XII Com from CBSE and scored 98.7%. She has also scored good in CUET. I am in dilemma either to go for BA(Hons) Economics from DU or B.Com (hons) from DU. She is ready to go for CAT or CA as well. Personally, I feel she should go for BA(Hons) Eco and then either UPSC or CAT for a good IIM. Pl advise.

Ans: Hi Sir,

Thank you for writing in.

Congratulations on the success of your daughter.

I would suggest please speak to your daughter and understand her interest. At the end, she is the one who is going put efforts, patience, interest and build her career. Hence, it's important you buy in her consensus.

Here, you are referring to two different career paths and both has relevant expertise as per the choices you make. Below I have given the brief for your reference.

If you choose BA (Hons) Economics -

If you are interested in a career in the civil services, particularly aiming for the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) exam, a BA in Economics could be relevant. Economics is one of the optional subjects in the UPSC exam, and having a background in this subject could give you an advantage in that aspect of the exam. However, keep in mind that the UPSC exam is highly competitive, and success in the exam depends on many factors, including hard work, dedication, and a comprehensive understanding of various subjects and current affairs. Hence checking the interest of your daughter is of utmost important.

On the other hand, if you are considering pursuing an MBA from an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) by taking the CAT (Common Admission Test), the choice of your undergraduate degree is less crucial. IIMs consider the CAT score, past academic performance, work experience, and performance in the interview/GD (Group Discussion) round when evaluating candidates. While an economics background could be helpful in developing analytical and quantitative skills required for the CAT, many successful MBA candidates come from diverse academic backgrounds.

If you choose B.com (Hons) -

If you are interested in a career in the civil services and want to appear for the UPSC exam, a BCom (Hons) degree can provide a solid foundation for the General Studies paper in the UPSC examination. BCom (Hons) covers various subjects related to commerce, economics, finance, and accounting, which can be beneficial for certain topics in the UPSC syllabus.

Similarly, if you are considering pursuing an MBA from an IIM through the CAT exam, a BCom (Hons) degree can be a good choice. BCom (Hons) graduates often possess strong analytical and quantitative skills, which are valuable for success in the CAT exam. Additionally, the IIMs appreciate diversity in academic backgrounds, and BCom (Hons) would add to that diversity.

As mentioned, with any career decision, it's essential to assess your daughter's interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Both paths, UPSC and CAT, require Commitment, Dedication and Hard work. You should research further on both the career options, possibly talk to professionals in each field who have achieved in their respective fields. Take time to explore both options thoroughly and choose the path that aligns best with your daughter's aspirations and ambitions.

Hope this help's. All the best

To Your Success. Be You. Be Confident
Ashwini Dasgupta
Author of Confidence Decoded. Is it a Skill or Attitude?