ASK THE COUNSELLOR

Which foreign language should I study?

• Which foreign language is in demand? I will pass out from class X in a few months. I am confused as to which subject to choose in my intermediate. Maths, Biology... all seem alike… please give me your advice -Arshad, 15

The best way to choose a course is to ask yourself what you like to do? What you want to be in life? What is your aptitude and where your interest lies? Ask what your strengths and weaknesses are? Then try and match an occupation accordingly. Do a research of the career you want to study. Always remember that all fields have equal importance and equal scope. Never opt for a subject that others want to study.

• I am in class XII. I want to learn a foreign language. Can you suggest which foreign language is in demand? And why? -Kiran, 18

Out of all languages, demand for Spanish and Chinese, of late, is very high. In countries like France, Italy, and Portugal and in southern states of Brazil, Spanish is the second most commonly spoken language. According to a recent survey Spanish is also the third largest language used in the internet (web). Chinese language is catching up because China is expected to be the global power in near future. Then there are some certificate courses and diploma courses. Candidates who have done 10+2 are eligible for such courses. If interested, you can later on even go for higher education in the same.

• I have done my BDS from Davengere, Karnataka. Now do I go for further specialisation? Which stream would be advisable? -Nikhil, 24

BDS profession deals with the inspection and treatment of teeth, gums and other parts of the oral acavity. A dentist especially takes care of problems affecting teeth. Common procedures are removal, correction and replacement of decayed, damaged or lost teeth. There are a number of specializations that you can opt for like:

1. Endodontic: Practice of basic clinical science including the biology of the normal pulp, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases and injuries of the pulp and root canal procedures.
2. Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology: Research and diagnosis of diseases using clinical, radiographic, microscopic, biochemical or other examinations. 
3. Oral Surgery: Diagnosis and treatment of oral disease, in particular benign and malignant tumours of the jaws, head and neck. They also perform surgeries for sleep disorder.
4. Orthodontics: Diagnosis, prevention and treatment of dental and facial irregularities.
5. Pedodontics: Dental stream dealing with the care for teeth, gums and mouth of children.