Navigating Joblessness in My 30s: A Lifelong Aspirant’s Journey
As a 28-year-old woman living in Kolkata, my journey to find my place in the world has taken unexpected turns. With a background in studies and work, my path to financial and personal independence remains uncertain, yet undeterred. This journey is not just about succeeding in an exam; it’s about embracing life's challenges and striving for what truly matters.
My Educational and Professional Background
My academic journey began in September 2022 with the pursuit of the UGC NET JRF Exam in Management. This quest for higher education was driven by my aspiration for financial independence. I completed my MBA with two spurring months of unpaid digital marketing internship. Initially, my career trajectory was geared towards banking, but repeated attempts on the IBPS and SBI exams made me realize it was not the right path for me. With dual specializations in marketing and finance, I have navigated through sales jobs, but the high-pressure environment led to my exit.
The UGC NET JRF Exam and My Aspirations
Qualifying in the UGC NET JRF Exam is crucial for securing financial stability. Despite repeated attempts and improvements, I have yet to clear the cut-off marks. My academic performance is average, with a CGPA of 6.5 both in my undergraduate and MBA programs. I am determined to pass the exam by the age of 30, and my efforts span 5-6 hours of rigorous study, with significant improvements marking every attempt.
Life In Kolkata and Personal Struggles
Life in Kolkata has been a blend of challenges and opportunities. Since March 2020, I have lived with my parents, who have spent over 42 lakhs on my education, including hostel and travel expenses. While my parents, though not imposing expectations, are skeptical about my ability to pass the exam, they do hope I will get married by January 2026. My mother, a Principal in a Government College, plans to retire in 2030 at 65. My heritage and upbringing instill a deep sense of duty and support from my family, yet the constant pressure for traditional milestones like marriage sometimes conflicts with my personal goals.
Personal Experimentation and Growth
Being a lifelong learner, I am committed to exploring new horizons. The year 2022 marked a significant step forward as I set aside time for self-improvement. I uninstalled social media on September 1st, ceased watching YouTube, and limited WhatsApp checks to twice a day. My days are now a balanced blend of studying for the UGC NET JRF, learning new languages on Duolingo, and listening to music on JioSaavn. This routine reflects my commitment to personal growth and achieving financial independence.
Embracing Life’s Challenges
Life is not without its twists and turns. Despite the skepticism of my parents and societal pressures, I remain hopeful and positive. My journey is about more than just a passing exam; it is about living life on my terms, pursuing my passions, and not letting external expectations dictate my future. The road to self-discovery is long and winding, but I am committed to walking it with determination and resilience.
Conclusion
As I prepare to take my third attempt at the UGC NET JRF Exam, my life is a testament to resilience and the pursuit of personal growth. Life in Kolkata, with its unique challenges, is a reminder that every journey is a step forward. My aspirations may evolve, but my commitment to self-improvement and financial independence remains unwavering.