How My Daughter’s Career Choices Evolved Over the Years | A Father’s Reflection

What alternative career paths have you considered or are interested in?

This is repeat prompt and I have answered similar prompt about my dream job. The link for that post is attached at the end of this post. You can click the link and read through.

Every child’s journey of discovering their purpose is unique — and as parents, witnessing that evolution is one of life’s greatest joys.
Today, I’m sharing the heartwarming story of how my elder daughter’s career choices evolved over the years — from her childhood dreams to becoming a professional in the semiconductor research and development field.

Childhood Dreams: The Little Teacher at Home

When my daughter was just six years old, she was fascinated by her teacher.
Every afternoon, she would transform our living room into a classroom. With her mother’s dupatta draped over her shoulder like a shawl of authority and a scale in hand, she played the role of “teacher.”

Me and my wife were her obedient students. Watching her mimic her teacher’s tone and expressions was pure joy — a moment of laughter and pride for us as parents.

From a Teacher to an Autorickshaw Driver

A few years later, her dream took an unexpected turn — she wanted to buy an autorickshaw and drive school children to class!
It sounds funny now, but she cherished this dream for quite some time. It was her way of combining independence with a sense of service.

The Shepherd Phase: A Love for Nature

Then came a phase where she wanted to become a shepherd. The idea of spending time in nature, caring for goats, and exploring open fields fascinated her.
Even today, she feels a strong pull toward nature and the simplicity it offers.

Choosing Science and the Race for IIT

After completing her SSC, she chose the science stream, aiming for IIT admission.
Like many students, she attended multiple coaching classes and spent long hours studying.

But one day, during our regular evening walk — something I often did to connect with my daughters — she opened up to me.

“Papa, I’m not comfortable in the IIT class,” she said softly. “The teachers don’t answer my doubts, and when I ask, they isolate me. I don’t want to continue.

I listened carefully. She was worried about the money we had spent, but I admired her clarity and courage.
I told her to follow her instincts — to quit the class if it didn’t serve her learning.

That moment strengthened her confidence and deepened our bond.

Parenting Through Individualism and Trust

I’ve always believed in raising my daughters with individuality and independence.
Instead of imposing our expectations, me and my wife guided them to make their own decisions — to analyze what’s good or not-so-good for them.

This approach helped them grow into independent thinkers who take ownership of their choices.

Finding Her True Calling: Engineering in VLSI

For graduation, my daughter chose B.Tech in Electronics Engineering with a specialization in VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration).
She has a natural researcher’s mind — analytical, curious, and patient. We even took an aptitude test from a professional, and it confirmed that her field choice perfectly matched her abilities.

The GATE Journey and a Lesson in Resilience

When it was time for her Master’s, she aimed high again — preparing for the GATE exam to enter IIT.
Though she didn’t get IIT, she secured admission to BITS Pilani, one of India’s most prestigious institutions.

I still remember her call from Hyderabad during her GATE classes.

“Papa, there are rats in the hostel room. I can’t stay here,” she complained.

I replied gently but firmly,

“Don’t see rats, see your goal. You’re there to study — focus on that.”

She never complained again — and went on to excel in her studies.
Sometimes, a little tough love helps children build strength for life.

Today: A Researcher in Semiconductor Chip Design

Today, my daughter works in an R&D center, designing semiconductor chips.
She’s living the dream she built — step by step, decision by decision.
And as parents, we couldn’t be prouder.

Final Thoughts: How Career Choices Evolve

This story isn’t just about my daughter — it’s about every child who’s discovering their path, and every parent learning to trust the process.

Career choices evolve — and that’s perfectly okay.
What matters most is self-awareness, freedom to choose, and supportive parenting that encourages children to be their authentic selves.

Thank you, dear readers, for taking time to read our story.
Stay happy, stay curious, and keep smiling 😊

Archeologist