Overcoming Regret and Self-Doubt After a Failed GATE Attempt

I feel both sorry and happy for you. Sorry for the way a phase you aspired for ended, and happy because it was just a phase of life and you have much more to explore now.

Step 1: Accept Your Failures

The first step towards overcoming self-doubt and regret is to accept your failures. Acknowledge that everyone faces setbacks, and using this as a learning experience is crucial.

Step 2: Analyze the Reasons Behind the Failure

Reflect on the reasons for your failure. Was it due to a lack of dedication, interest, or financial constraints? Was it a borrowed dream or one of your own? Understanding these reasons will help you move forward with clarity.

Step 3: Explore Life

If it was a borrowed dream, explore life and find your passion. It’s easier said than done, but the vast majority of people choose to live a life they tolerate for financial gains. Don’t follow suit. Find something that truly excites and motivates you.

Step 4: Prepare for Success

If you put in hardcore preparation, you have a mindset that is just above average. You need to do something significant. Try again after a break with proper dedication and guidance. If that’s not possible, there are ample opportunities out there to explore.

Consider Other Career Perspectives

First, ask yourself whether you really want to pursue your career through the GATE or any other route. One exam cannot decide your career. There will be lots of opportunities in your way.

Rather than giving a motivational lecture, let me give you an insight into what else you can do if you don’t have a GATE score:

Postgraduate Services Units (PSU)

There are many PSUs now that do not ask for a GATE score. They conduct their own exams, which provide multiple chances to crack an exam and get a job. Even if you fail in GATE, you have another chance with these exams.

PhD and Lectureship

If you want to pursue a PhD and a lectureship, consider options like Jadavpur University in Kolkata, which takes their own exams. They also have good job placement opportunities. Other government colleges and private colleges also conduct their own exams. Ensure you check their placement statistics before applying.

Masters (MS) Programs

If you can arrange for funds, consider MS programs from abroad. A Master’s degree requires GRE and TOEFL scores for admission, but you must settle there for better opportunities. Foreign degrees do not have as much value in India; an IIT MS degree is often more valued here.

Exploring Other Career Paths

If you are inclined towards government jobs, consider UPSC CSE, IAS, IPS, IFS, UPSC ESE, IES, State PCS, SSC CGL, Bank jobs, and Railway jobs. There are many options available.

If you want to change your field, CAT MBA is a good option.

If engineering is still your passion, upskill yourself. Taking courses and acquiring knowledge can help you find employment in your field or a related one.

Embrace the Bigger Picture

Engineers are undoubtedly capable of doing anything in the world, thanks to their rigorous academic training and logical thinking skills. A majority of successful candidates in UPSC CSE come from an engineering background. No offense to other degree holders, but engineers have a great analytical mindset and can excel in any field beyond engineering.

Don’t doubt yourself solely based on one exam. Remember, no matter the exam, your life’s value is irreplaceable. Good luck on your journey towards self-discovery and success!

The battles that count aren’t the ones for gold medals. The struggles within yourself—the invisible, inevitable battles inside all of us—that’s where it’s at.