Tamilselvan M.’s Post

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Building a holistic "Career Lifecycle Management Platform" for school students, graduate students and working professionals.

"Oh, you're from IIT? You must be very smart!" It’s a common perception that being from IIT automatically means you’re among the brightest. And yes, some of the sharpest minds do go to IIT. But let’s also acknowledge a larger truth—academics, while important, aren’t everything. The reality is that only about 5% of those who write JEE Advanced make it into IIT, and even fewer secure the stream of their choice. For many, the journey is more about the brand and the tag than about aligning with their true interests or goals. But does getting into IIT—or any elite institution—mean you’re among the “best of the best” in the country? Not necessarily. It means you’re part of the best minds, yes, but talent and potential are far more widespread than any single exam or institution can capture. What truly matters is what you do with your education. Success today isn’t defined by where you studied but by the skills you demonstrate and the value you create. Organizations like Google, NASA, and Facebook are increasingly looking for proven skills and talent, with academic credentials often carrying the least weight in their decisions. Yet, many parents and students remain fixated on the NEET/JEE mindset, believing it’s the only path to a successful career. This often comes at a high cost—students lose out on a critical window to develop essential thinking, social, and problem-solving skills, all because of the intense and rigid preparation schedule imposed on them. This isn’t about dismissing traditional paths like engineering or medicine. For some, these are the right choices. But for many others, the same rigid focus leads to frustration, burnout, and, often, unrealized dreams. So, I ask parents: Do you want to raise a bonsai—beautiful but limited in its growth—or a sprawling banyan tree, strong and enduring, that stands tall for generations? The choice lies in how we nurture our children—not just academically, but holistically. Let’s encourage them to explore, grow, and find their true potential. FutureCaptains

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