When it comes to academic pursuits, be it undergrad or postgrad, there are always some common pathways most people opt for. The usual engineering, medical, or business degrees do have their own merits, as they provide a promise of career stability. However, more unconventional fields have opened up, offering opportunities for students looking to invest in things they are genuinely passionate about rather than sticking to the usual fields.

At present, these alternative subjects have seen a surge in demand. Among the subjects students could consider, Data Science and Analytics is one of the more lucrative majors. Graduates in this subject can find employment in fields including marketing, finance, and healthcare amongst others.

For students interested in a field related to healthcare, Health Informatics is a field which applies data analytics and data management to develop the medical industry. Graduates in this sector can work in advancing healthcare technology, improving patient care, and streamlining medical procedures.

With the need for digital data protection on the rise, cybersecurity has also become an expanding field which offers a plethora of career opportunities.  Students studying in this field can learn various skills like systems programming and analysis, computer networks, ethical hacking and much more.

Last but not the least, Environmental Science and Sustainability is a major which ensures graduates can work in fields such as renewable energy and conservation, policy development, and sustainable urban planning. Environmental Science is a vast and flexible field which encompasses a lot of topics like sustainability science, conservation biology, and the general study of how diverse physical and chemical processes interact with nature.

These subjects are merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to alternative career possibilities. But why should students consider such alternative subjects?

Abu Miraz Khan Chowdhury, who is currently doing his Master's in International Hospitality Management at Edith Cowan University, Australia, said, "Pursuing unconventional majors can be a rewarding choice for students. These less-travelled paths can lead to exciting and niche career opportunities that align with individual passions and talents. They often bring fresh perspectives to industries and contribute to innovation."

"I chose to pursue a Master's in International Hospitality Management at ECU, due to a combination of my passion for hospitality and my aspiration for a global career. The hospitality industry has always fascinated me with its dynamic nature, where every interaction and detail contribute to creating memorable experiences," he added.

Various factors result in students feeling hesitant to pursue such unconventional majors. There is often a limited job market for fresh graduates in some of these fields, especially in the context of Bangladesh, as traditional subjects tend to have more established positions ready. Furthermore, many students in Bangladesh still have to deal with conforming to societal expectations and are often discouraged from pursuing non-traditional careers. However, there are several ways to subvert and overcome these obstacles.

Student consultancy agencies such as H & I Council are working to aid aspiring students to pursue their academics abroad by providing academic counselling and application support, as well as various other help such as aid in visa application and networking.

H & I Council can also advise students and help them make better decisions owing to their skilled and knowledgeable counsellors. They are equipped with vast knowledge  – so much so that they can thoroughly inform prospective students about the many facilities of colleges associated with H & I Council. Such commitment makes them the right pick for students who strive to pursue alternative college degrees. It is a one-stop solution to stay ahead in the competitive sphere of applying to universities abroad.

"We are committed to supporting students in pursuing alternative subjects by providing a comprehensive range of services and facilities tailored to their unique academic and career aspirations," said Rabiul Hossain, Chief Executive of H & I Council.

In regards to the importance of academic counselling, Nafisa Ulfat, currently doing her Bachelor of Business Studies at Sunway University, Malaysia, said, "I researched myself and sought guidance from H & I Council's counsellors. They took note of my previous academic background, my interests, and  also checked my financial situation. Later, they shortlisted some options for me and asked me to choose. I took advice from my parents. My advice for students will be to start your research and prepare well in advance. Do proper financial planning and stay organised. This will help you submit complete and timely applications."

Sufficient research, analysis, and career counselling can help students find the right alternatives to study abroad. Of course, there are many other factors to bear in mind, but the world is a place of limitless possibilities and students should always try to discover new fields which may expand upon their passion.