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 (C and C++), 2D and 3D design, and have a strong aptitude for drawing. 

The games design and development process is usually spread over three stages — creative (conceptualisation and visualisation), production (graphics, animation and programming), and finally testing on a multiplicity of platforms and media (video, desktop, mobile etc). 

 

I’m a class XII (science) student keen on a career in aerospace engineering. Which colleges in India offer this programme? Is it possible to get admission into NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) and MIT in the US?
— Suhas Rene, Pune

The Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore and IITs at Kharagpur, Madras, Bombay, and Kanpur offer the best aerospace engineering study programmes. Anna University, Chennai, Punjab Engineering College, Chandigarh, Hindustan Institute of Engineering Technology, Chennai, Nehru College of Aeronautical and Applied Sciences, Coimbatore, School of Aviation Science and Technology, Delhi, also offer similar programmes.

After completing your engineering degree in India, you could pursue postgraduate studies in American universities. A degree in mechanical or electronics engineering is particularly useful when applying to graduate engineering schools in the US such as MIT, Stanford, California Institute of Technology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Purdue University etc, which offer excellent aerospace engineering study programmes. It’s best to apply for NASA programmes while studying in the US. Ultimately, it takes brilliant academic performance and single-minded pursuit of goals to enter prestigious organisations.

 

Univariety, Hyderabad