May 2014

EDUCATE + ENTERTAIN

MAY 2014 || ` 75

www.youthincmag.com

Hobbies A Summer

of

Attend summer courses to develop key skills this vacation

r o o td ities u O tiv Ac l

a s i c Sorvice Se

al u s s i V rt A ng i m r o f r rts e P A

MAKE THE MOST OF AN OPEN DAY What to look for when visiting the school of your choice abroad

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RENDEZVOUS WITH ANTARCTICA Sarita Singh talks about her journey to the icy continent

Media and Communication

Sports

ty t i l na men o rs lop gy e P eve olo D hn c Te CHASE THE ADRENALINE Travel India for the best adventure sport locations

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contents MAY 2014

ON THE COVER

32

MAKE THE MOST OF AN OPEN DAY What to look for when visiting the foreign institute of your choice

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A SUMME R OF H OBBIE S d Utilise your passions an e som rn lea to ies hobb significant new skills with n tio summer courses this vaca

38

RENDEZVOUS WITH ANTARCTICA

Sarita Singh recounts her journey and adventures in Antarctica

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CHASE THE ADRENALINE

Best vacation spots in India for adrenaline junkies to visit COVER CREDITS PHOTOGRAPHY: SPINTHIRAS MEDIA MODELS: ISMAIL DOODHWALA SANDEEP HINDUJA RACHNA SHELAR TRISHANN HENRIQUES MAKEUP AND HAIR: NIDDHI JHAKHAD

(Educate) OPEN SPACE 16 WHAT I THINK ABOUT THE IPL

O N L I N E E XC L U S I V E S

FOCUS FEATURE 18 INDIA: THE DISABLED

WORDSMITH OF THE MONTH Sayali Palekar writes her heart out as our celebrated writer of the month

One of our interns has some strong feelings about the IPL

PERSON’S NIGHTMARE Highlighting the plight of the disabled in our country

OUT OF THE BOX CAREER 22 PAW-FECTION FOR

BOOK REVIEW: THE AVATARI We provide a review of Raghu Srinivasan’s Dan Brown-inspired mythical thriller

CAREER WATCH 24 THE USHERS OF STYLE

MOTHERS’ DAY TRIBUTE We tip our hats to the women who made us possible

FURRY FRIENDS Animal lovers can find solace in a career of animal rescue

Fashion styling is a glamorous and a lucrative career option 4

www.youthincmag.com

Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

4 Contents.indd 4

25-04-2014 20:13:31

THE WORLD NEEDS MORE GOOD DOCTORS. THE WORLD NEEDS YOU.

For almost 40 years, St. George’s University has been providing the world with highly trained doctors— more than 11,000 in all 50 states in the US and over 50 countries in the world.

Currently there are students and graduates from over 88 countries. In 2013, our diverse student body outperformed students from the US and Canadian schools on the United States Medical Licensing Exam - Step One on the first try with a 98% pass rate.

The preclinical science course takes place on the beautiful campus in Grenada; the clinical training program is conducted at our affiliated hospitals in the US and the UK, as well as Canada and Grenada.

Generous tuition scholarships available for qualified students, including the Commonwealth Jubilee Scholarships and International Peace Scholarships. Visit www.sgu.edu/scholarships for more information.

January and August entering classes each year.

Find out about information sessions and webinars in your area at sgu.edu/md Worldwide: +1 (631) 665-8500 ext. 9 1380 sguenrolment@sgu.edu

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HOW-TO GUIDE 26 HOW TO BEAT THE BAD

ECONOMY The job market may be down but there are always ways around it

AWARENESS 28 DECODING YOUR

INTELLIGENCE Fingerprints can reflect unique intelligence levels in people

WORKPLACE HACKS 30 INTERVIEWING THE

EMPLOYER The questions to ask your interviewer to make a good impression

STAPLEdiet EDITOR’S NOTE…8 EDITORIAL CONNECT…10 AROUND THE WORLD…14 COUNSELLOR Q&A…55 WORD ZONE…56 THE G SPOT…72 IMHO…76 HANGOUT…80 GRAFFITI…82

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YOUTH ISSUES 34 TWEETS INTERRUPTED

The significance of social media in today’s political scenario

PRODIGY 36 THE LOGICAL MIND OF A

TECH AUTODIDACT Arjun S. talks about his achievements at the age of 14

RELATIONSHIP 62 TACKLING RELATIONSHIP ABUSE Identifying the signs of abuse in a relationship and how to avoid them

COUNTDOWN 64 10 SHORT HORROR STORIES THAT WILL CHILL YOUR BONES The best short horror stories the internet has produced

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LOOKING GLASS, FLICKR

(Entertain)

PAGE

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HEALTH 66 7 HEALTH MYTHS BUSTED

Separating the myths from the facts in food-related misconceptions

POINT OF VIEW 68 ALONE IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY Nisha JamVwal reminisces her wonderful years studying abroad

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FASHION 70 SUNGLASSES THAT SUIT YOUR FACE Matching the best sunglasses for face shapes

71 SUMMER BEAUTY

Makeup artist Vibhuti Singh shares her favourite summer look

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Editor's

note

The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever Summer vacations in my time translated to nothing but free time. Free time to pursue anything I wished without the stress of studies or assignments. I still remember waking up to attend swimming or cycling class and then playing late into the evening with friends.

It was also the time when my cousins and I spent the entirety of our vacations at each other’s homes. Some days were spent making movie and dinner plans and many others were spent lazing at home devouring mangoes. I reckon this happens even today. The two-month break was definitely the best time of my growing up years.

There are tons of things to do in the summer, ranging from hobbies that comprise dance, music, fashion, graphics, theatre, volunteer work, computers and sports. Since there are tailormade courses to suit the interests of everyone, it only seemed fair to compile a list of skills and courses worth taking up this summer. We hope that you enjoy this collection and turn your vacation into a summer of hobbies. After all, what are summer vacations without a skill to hone?

Summer also means heat, and that brings with it innovative ways to beat the sun. You could cool off, both physically and mentally, with the story of Sarita Singh. Sarita journeyed to Antarctica and her tale is as tantalising as it is magnificent. She along with 80 others from across the world travelled to the South Pole as part of the International Antarctic Expedition.

She has returned to narrate her adventures to us.

You can create your own adventures too! After a taxing month of examinations, May is that time of year when most set out to take trips to different locations across the country. For the adrenaline junkie and those set to make travels in the coming months, our guide to adventure sports holidays will be your companion on your path to exploration.

Here’s to a fun-filled summer!

Nitish Shah

Volume 3 Issue 11 May 2014

Editor-in-Chief NITISH SHAH nitish@youthincmag.com

Editorial Team

APARNA SUNDARESAN SEAN SEQUEIRA TRISHANN HENRIQUES

Editorial Interns

PAYAL MOHTA SHREEJA MAHAMBRE RIDDHI JAIN NIRVA VIRA

Art & Design

MOULVI ABBAS HASAN GAURAV DODIYA

Design Intern

ARADHANA CHAND

Ad Sales

HEENA SOPARIWALA sales.mg@youthincmag.com POOJA JAISWAL sales.hd@youthincmag.com RAHIL SHAIKH sales.ma@youthincmag.com

Marketing

DHWANI CHHEDA marketing@youthincmag.com

Marketing Interns

HARSH SHAH MANIL DODANI

Circulation

SHANTARAM AMBERKAR NISHANT SHINDE

Administration

GEETA NAIK For advertising, subscriptions and circulation mail@youthincmag.com +91-22-2351-6622 / 6609

Printed and published by Nitish Shah on behalf of Splash Publication Pvt Ltd Published at: 9 Forjett Hill, British Express Bldg, 2nd floor, Mumbai 400036.

Editor: Nitish Shah

Admin office: F9&10, Commerce Centre, 6th Floor, 78 Tardeo Road, Mumbai 400034.

Printed at: Repro India Ltd Plot No 50/2, TTC MIDC Industrial Area, Mahape, Navi Mumbai 400 710. District Thane All content in print and online is owned by Splash Publication Pvt Ltd under international copyright laws. No part of the content can be reproduced in any form without the prior written permission of the publishers. Publishers will not be held responsible for the content of the magazine including accuracy and effects. All disputes will be subject to the jurisdiction of competant courts in Mumbai only.

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23-04-2014 19:35:52

ph. Aldo Fallai

you will wear my taste.

Istituto Marangoni’s students firmly believe in their future as fashion professionals, and so do we. The schools of Fashion in Milano, Paris, London and Shanghai offer prestigious programmes in the specific field of Fashion Styling, at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate level: One Year Fashion Image & Styling Intensive; Three-years in Fashion Styling; One Year Master’s in Fashion Styling & Portfolio and a One Year Master’s in Fashion Photography.

With us their dreams of today will become their brilliant careers of tomorrow. At Istituto Marangoni we say bravo.

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Nicolò Andreoni, Fashion Styling student.

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23-04-2014 16:15:13 23/04/14 09:50

editorial c o n n e c t

Write to us at mail@youthincmag.com

SOCIALLY YOURS

YouthIncMag

@YouthIncMag

YOUTH INC @ TIMES EDUCATION BOUTIQUE 2014 We asked the students at the Times Education Boutique to describe India�s current political scenario in a single word.

Here are some of the answers we got.

 DOWNLOAD THE OCUTAG SNAP

BLOGGER OF THE MONTH Archita Mitra

http://mitraarchita1995.wordpress.com/

Archita Mitra’s blog Life – Half Glass Full covers a bunch of different topics that encompass literature, poetry and random musings that catch her fancy. This 18-year-old girl from Mumbai enjoys reading books, travelling to new locations, the company of her friends and writing. She describes her blog as being a platform through which she can write about everything under the sun. About her blog, Archita says, “Writing for me is sacred, through it I can give wings to my thoughts and dreams that is then read by people across the world”.

She also says that the feedback that she receives, good and bad, help refine her writing.

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PERSONALITY OF THE MONTH

 @BHAK_SALA Started by an IITian, Bhak Sala is a not-so-modest account of mostly the heebie-jeebies of Indian politics as well as a bit about everyone associated with it.

Its black humour is sure to leave a smirk on your face.

AAP is the fastest growing start-up formed by an IITan. Raj Thackeray is Salman Khan of politics. All his interviews have the same script, same acting and same item song.

Ram Gopal Varma is the most secular guy in Bollywood. He has killed millions of audiences regardless of their religion

APP ON YOUR SMARTPHONE

 LOOK FOR PAGES WITH THE OCUTAG SNAP

 SNAP THE PAGE USING THE OCUTAG APP

ENJOY

A VARIETY OF DIGITAL CONTENT: VIDEOS, RELATED ARTICLES AND MUCH MORE

23-04-2014 21:21:20

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Contribut rs m nth IBRAHIM DOODHWALA AND LEKHA KIRAN

As part of the Spinthiras Media team, Ibrahim and Lekha are the brains behind our cover shoot for A summer of Hobbies. Joining us for the second time this year, Ibrahim describes photography as a language that can be understood by everyone, while Lekha talks of photography as her source of happiness and believes in capturing her subjects the way they make her feel.

NISARG KAMDAR

Nisarg R. Kamdar is an engineering student who has an insatiable interest in current affairs. He spends his ancillary time indulging in debates, MUNs and articulating his opinions.

PALAK KAPADIA

RHEA KAVARANA

This month, makeup artist Vibhuti Singh has created a look for hot summer days ahead. Besides her love for makeup, she enjoys travelling, loves the 80s era, and claims to not have a favourite colour, but a favouirte canvas – the face.

NIMI JAYCHANDRAN

Palak Kapadia is a media student and aspiring journalist. A part time writer and a full time dreamer, she likes eating, reading, translating things to French and people who use good grammar.

One of Youth Incorporated magazine’s Youth Buddies and feature contributors, Rhea Kavarana is a 21-yearold media student, a hardcore foodie and an aspiring travel and food writer.

VIBHUTI SINGH

Nimi is an avid reader, writer and Pottermaniac.

She was born in Chidambaram, raised in California and currently resides in Chennai.

Writing is her passion.

NIDDHI JHAKHAD

Having worked as a successful makeup artist and hairstylist for fashion magazines, ad campaigns, TV shows, bridal and portfolio shoots, Nidhi Jhakhad lends her talent to our cover shoot this month.

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educate

CHRISTIAN HAUGEN, FLICKR

yi

Extend your love for your furry friends by taking up a career as an animal rescue worker...

Page 22

K E E PI N S I D E 

Pg24 Pg26 Pg30 Pg34 THE USHERS OF STYLE

HOW TO BEAT THE BAD ECONOMY

INTERVIEWING THE EMPLOYER

TWEETS INTERRUPTED

THE CAREER OF A FASHION STYLIST DRESSED UP IN ITS TRUE COLOURS AND GLORY

DON’T BE FAZED

BY THE DIFFICULTY OF ATTAINING JOBS IN THE CURRENT MARKET

ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS IN A JOB INTERVIEW CAN HELP MAKE A GOOD IMPRESSION

THE BAN OF TWITTER IN TURKEY BEFORE ELECTIONS AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR A DEMOCRACY

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EDU NEWS

CENTRALISED ADMISSIONS TO BE HELD FOR BCom ASPIRANTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF GUJARAT  Colleges affiliated with the University of Gujarat that offer the Bachelor of Commerce degree have decided to have a centralised admissions process.  Admissions through management quota are being done away with to get rid of student leaders.  The admissions will be conducted like that of engineering colleges and the final merit list of students shall be decided after two rounds of assessment.  In the bargain, students will also save time as they do not have to apply to their choice of colleges separately.  Also, students have to fill just one form to apply for the Bachelor of Commerce course, Bachelor of Business Administration course and the Bachelor of Computer Application and MSC IT course.

INDIRA GANDHI NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY TRIPLES ITS ENROLMENT OVER THE LAST YEAR

 From just 700 students last year, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Nagpur has now expanded to 2022 students this year.

Its growing number of courses and study centres led to the increase.  IGNOU is reaching out to the tribal areas in the interiors of Maharashtra and has successfully persuaded many young tribals to sign up for their courses.  These specific certificate courses help in securing jobs. Students who took the courses in the past now have jobs in hospitals.  IGNOU is planning to take larger steps to ensure that the Gadchiroli tribal students pass these certificate courses with flying colours and secure dependable jobs.  From 10 centres, there are now 48 for the students to study at.

CAT SCORES REQUIRED FOR ADMISSION IN THE ALLAHBAD UNIVERSITY FROM2015  The Academic Council of Allahabad University has decided that admissions to their MBA course shall be done on the basis of CAT scores from the academic year starting 2015.  The MBA course is being taught by the Motilal Nehru Institute of Business Administration, which until now depended on the entrance test conducted by the Allahabad University to admit students.  Also, admissions to the rural MBA course shall be done on the basis of a separate all-India test to be conducted by Allahabad University.  The Common Entrance Test is expected to make the admission process faster and more accurate.

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THE UNITED KINGDOM IS RELAXING VISA NORMS TO ATTRACT INDIAN STUDENTS

INTEL INDIA ANNOUNCES A FELLOWSHIP OF `5.7 LAKHS AS WELL AS A PhD PROGRAMME  Scholarships up to `5.7 lakh will be awarded

by Intel India to deserving Indian students for their higher education.  These scholarships shall cover student stipends, travel grants to attend conferences and research forums and also contingency research expenses for four years.  This fellowship is to aid selected students during the Intel higher education programme that launches this year.  The PhD programme will collaborate with engineering and research institutions, several universities and the government and will work at promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.  Students shall be chosen for the scholarship based on their originality at solving problems, research work and the research goals of their PhD thesis.  The programme is for the academic year starting July 2014.

 Students applying to go to universities in the United Kingdom for higher education will not have to wait for a long time for their passports.  The United Kingdom government is planning to start a passport back facility which will allow students to get their passports as soon as the initial checking is done even if the visa processing is not completed.  Also, Indian students who are already studying postgraduate programmes in the UK can extend their visa and work in areas concerned with their academic programme.  The UK government is confident that making visa norms less harsh and more flexible will make it easier for students to apply for education in the UK and increase the number of Indian students in UK classrooms.

IIM TRICHY LAUNCHES NEW POSTGRADUATE PROGRAMME  In addition to the postgraduate programme in business management, IIM Trichy is launching a new three-year postgraduate programme in human resource management.  The first year of the course will involve the same syllabus as their business management postgraduate programme and the next two years will focus on the specialisation – human resource management.  Professionals interested in this programme may apply if they have three or more years of work experience.  The programme will include electives like organisation development and change, employee relations, global HR and diversity, employee engagement and HR analytics from which any one may be chosen.  Candidates shall be selected on the basis of their CV, a written test and an interview. Candidates with valid GMAT and CAT scores are not required to take the test and interview.  The last day to apply for the course is 5 May and the application forms are available on the IIM Trichy website. The programme commences this July.

MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 15

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What I think about the IPL Our intern Manil Dodani has some thoughts (and second thoughts) on what he calls “the world’s richest cricket tournament”

CHEERLEADERS OR DISTRACTION MASCOTS? Seven years in and the IPL still has cheerleaders.

The organisers clearly put a lot of thought into these foreign beauties and their minimalistic dressing.

Seriously, why are they so hot? Maybe they’re just a clever strategy by rival team owners to get players back to the pavilion. Every time they dance, I don’t really know about the ball, but the players' performance goes clearly off-spin.

THE REAL JOB Playing cricket is no big deal. Just swing the bat and pray it makes contact with the ball. You know what’s actually difficult?

Doing advertisements. This is where IPL players exhibit peak performance, from expressions to footwork and pep talks to gestures. A shout-out to our aggressive, strapping young lad Mr Kohli for his superior control over his vicious tongue in that cola ad, way better than anything we’ve seen on field. Ironic, isn’t it?

The cricket he plays and the endorsements he makes are both on national television, and I’m really confused about which of the two I should applaud.

DISCOVERING IPL It was a moonlit night. The streets were deserted.

There were roars in the neighbourhood – frightening ones – coupled with wild hooting and effeminate laughter. Then it all stopped for a fleeting second. The next thing I knew, the neighbourhood exploded with unrelenting applause and whistling. Finally it dawned on me; it was the night of the world’s richest cricket tournament, the Indian Premier League.

THE INDIAN PLUMBING LEAGUE Appointments, marriages and plumbing are fixed, so is the IPL. Bollywood films make crores of rupees with coordinated dance numbers and rehearsed dialogues.

And the IPL is inspired. Teams now play choreographed innings (orchestrated hits and misses) and use powerful gestures like tipping the cap or strategically positioning a towel as their lines. Don’t forget those rocker shades.

And the chairman who loved his chair too much.

Ultimately, Bollywood and IPL are bhaibehen. They both entertain millions and make billions. Melodrama, paparazzi and controversies follow but that’s all in a day’s work for India’s twin religions.

If you have an entertaining mind, we want a piece of it. Unleash your thoughts and send them to mail@youthincmag.com

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FOCUS FEATURE

IND A

DISABLED The

Person’s Nightmare While uncovering the plight of the disabled Indian, Nimi Jayachandran suggests the best way for us to shake off our apathetic skin

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Introduction

The first thing one would notice about fourteen-year-old Vishal is that he uses a walker, but once you talk to him you would see that he is much like any other child of his age. Vishal is affected by a form of cerebral palsy targeting his motor system hindering his ability to walk. Five years ago, in the early summer of 2009, Vishal was denied access to write the entrance exam to a private school due to his disability. His story is one amongst millions of those discriminated against in our country due to some form of disability.

Defining disability

The official World Health Organization definition of a disability is, “any restriction or lack (resulting from impairment) of ability to perform in a manner or within the range considered normal for a human being.”

The Disability Act of 1995 identifies blindness, low vision, cerebral palsy, leprosy, hearing impairment, motor disability, mental illness and mental retardation as different forms of disabilities. In addition, learning disorders of specific types are considered disabilities as well. There are over 40 million people in India living a life of prejudice and stigma due to some form of disability or the other.

Lack of awareness

Poonam Natarajan, Chairperson of the National Trust, explains that the major problem with understanding disabilities in our country is that there is not enough awareness as to how to proceed once the diagnosis of a disability has been made. “34 years ago, when my son was born, I didn’t know whom to speak with and the doctors [weren’t of much help]…no one in our country can really explain to you what the condition is and what it means and what it can do.”

When a diagnosis of a disability is made, India has no protocols to help the affected persons and their family. In Western cultures, families are offered counselling services and support groups in order to cope with the situation and to help them understand what life will be like in the years to come. Such services are not as actively found in India.

In a panel discussion, Salim Khan of the Being Human Foundation, stated that awareness on psychological disablities is needed just as much as physical disabilities.

Rural problems

Dr. Shweta Solanki, a Project Manager at Anchal Charitable Trust, brings to attention the difference in attitude in rural versus urban societies. “In [rural India], there is less awareness, less quality of education, so [families of disabled people] don’t know how to react.” In many instances, the family members themselves give in to social stigma and pressure and start treating the affected member in a different way. “When going on long trips, family members may feel that taking along the disabled child is a physical burden, and opt to leave them at home instead,” she explains.

Urban stigma

Stigma in society is stronger than most people realise. “Census data may be lower than in reality because many parents are not willing to openly admit that their child has a disability,” says Poonam Natarajan. 26-year-old Abhinand Adithavarman, a Research Scholar at the Bioinformatics Department in SRU Chennai, recollects an incident with a cab driver

Problems with the definition

RUNRAN, FLICKR

It is rather difficult to precisely define what a disability is since it varies in form, type and intensity. Jayna Kothari, founding member of the Centre for Law and Policy Research said in a panel discussion, “[Disability] is a changing concept, there is no way to measure it. [We] need an inclusive definition to include all disabilities.”

She went on to explain that under the current ruling, a person would have to be at least 40% disabled by medical certification in order to be officially disabled which is not a practical way of determining disability.

MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 19

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FOCUS FEATURE to help those affected by disabilities: National Institute for Hearing Handicapped, Disability Act, ADIP Scheme, NHFDC, and various state government schemes.

Despite the Disability Act of 1995 having allotted 3% of government sector jobs for these individuals, the implementation of this is not complete.

Furthermore, there exists another set of problems in the working area. Abha Thorat-Shah, director of the British Asian Trust, says, “The appropriate facilities need to be provided to disabled people in a workplace, so as to increase their effectiveness.” In addition, employers and staff need to be open minded to working with a person with a disability.

A child with cerebral palsy

who refused to drive him. “He said that he would feel like an ambulance driver if he were to drive me around,” he says. Even in today’s modernising society, disabled persons continue to be discriminated against for a plethora of unjustifiable reasons. Society as a whole has a tendency to treat disabled people differently, and not as an equal, regardless of the skills that person may possess.

Insufficient infrastructure

In addition to stigma and discrimination, people dealing with disabilities face problems when it comes to infrastructure. Many places are not equipped with adequate methods of access for them. Access to simple things such as public transport, government offices, public spaces, places of worship and educational institutions are often times restricted to those who do not face the challenge of a disability. Furthermore, the few intervention methods that are taken are generally restricted to physical disabilities only.

Educational facilities

Appropriate education, teaching aids, books in Braille, interpreters for the hearing and speech impaired are still not available for the greater part of those facing disabilities. “When

it comes to education, the Right to Education Act has made it so that all schools, by law, must admit children, but we must take into account what happens after the child has been admitted into the school,” says Jayna Kothari. Are there teachers trained to handle students with different needs? Are there interpreters for students who need them? Does the infrastructure of the school provide methods of physical access (such as ramps for wheelchair users)? Once all these things are taken into account, educational opportunities can no longer be called equal. “When I was in school, the administration took the effort to make sure my classes were on the ground floor and my friends were in the same class as me so they could help me,” says Abhinand, “but only after my father went in and talked to them. You can’t expect all schools to be this way.”

Government efforts

According to the Census 2002, disabled people constitute at least 6% of the total population, yet their individual needs for social security and employment remain unmet. This leaves them at mercy of government aid(s) and society to meet these requirements. The Government of India has certain schemes and facilities

NGO, private and corporate efforts

Private foundations such as the Latika Roy foundation and The Anchal Charitable Trust work to help those affected and to raise awareness. In addition, there are also scholarship opportunities and educational allowances available. Most recently, The Veer Campaign was launched together

by Thums Up, the Being Human Foundation and the American Indian Foundation in order to raise awareness and to train people with disabilities to be more modified to a working environment.

People interested in contributing to The Veer Campaign may do so by calling 0120-401-9191 or online at https:// www.theveer.in yi

SCHOOLS FOR DISABLED

-- Purti Special Education School, Delhi -- Ashray Akruti, Hyderabad -- School for Deaf-Mute Society, Ahmedabad -- Asha Academy for Severe Handicaps and Autism, Bangalore -- Fellowship of the Physically Handicapped, Mumbai -- Bethany Special School, Bangalore

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OUT OF THE BOX CAREER

PAW-FECTION FOR FURRY FRIENDS

Alway love fos believed th get mor animals co at your volun re profess uldn’t Think teering withional than demysagain. Palak NGOs? animal tifies a care Kapadia er rescue workeras an

“Give a person negativity and you’ ll get py, all you’ ll negativity right back. Try scolding a pup 19-year-old a ar, nolk Kha ti get back is love,” says Shru are a likeyou If nt. pare animal lover and dog foster a first-aid with ing rush minded individual who goes the street on al anim red inju kit ever y time you spot an rescuing of ion gnat desi ial or have been given the offic can find you then ti, kran San stranded birds on Makar ker. wor ue resc al anim an your calling in a career as SCOPE OF THE PROFESSION currently too “There is plenty of scope. There are also homes. There d goo to d pare many dogs and cats as com ue and resc and , help of are so many animals in need staff, but for ing look n ofte are animal protection groups a Singh, Neh says rs,” ntee volu are also always looking for Youth Outreach Advisor at PETA India.

22 Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

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WHAT QUALIFIES YOU Animal rescue jobs don’t require a professional degree per se. However, certificate courses in medical care and first-aid for injured animals are beneficial. Besides, on-the-job training is enough to get you hired. Individuals who are interested in pursuing animal rescue and welfare career paths may benefit from volunteer work with shelters. Completion of formal internships may also be of particular value. “Training in crisis management, first-aid, animal protection laws and animal rescue can help. Much of this training can be gotten by volunteering for your local animal protection group and helping them with rescues. You can also volunteer to help at a local veterinary clinic if there is no animal protection NGO in your area,” Neha adds.

ANIMAL RESCUE IN INDIA  The government body Animal

Welfare Board of India (www.awbi. org) has an identity card scheme for people who feed stray dogs and cats. If anyone bothers such good samaritans, they have an ID card to show.  It is illegal for anyone to displace strays, that is, to move them from one environment to another which is unfamiliar to them, such as where they cannot find food or water.  The penalty for cruelty to animals is very weak. Currently, the penalty for cruelty to animals is between `10 and `50 for the first offence, which may go up to `100 for a subsequent offence or up to three months in prison.  College students may join organisations such as PETA Youth and become animal rights advocates in their colleges and neighbourhoods.

ON THE UP SIDE For an animal lover, this career is an opportunity to turn their passion into a profession. Animal rescuers work with wildlife or domesticated pets to heal injuries or find them

ANIMAL NGOS IN INDIA • People for Animals (PFA) • Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) • PETA India • Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO) • Youth Organization in Defence of Animals (YODA) new homes. The opportunity to save animals from danger or cruelty is immensely gratifying. “The happiness and satisfaction of saving lives! Not many professions can boast of that,” Neha says.

ON THE DOWN SIDE “Communicating with people who call the rescuer can be a challenge. If they are panicked, the rescuer has to calm them down first in order to get all the information he/she needs,” says Neha. The field has other stresses, such as having to witness the results of animal abuse and abandonment.

Besides, the working hours are not very defined. This profession finds its very root in emergency situations.

The work can be both physically and emotionally difficult. yi

“Across India, stray dogs and cats struggle to survive on the streets. Many of them starve to death or are injured, abused or hit by vehicles.

Countless others are left to languish in animal shelters because there aren’t enough good homes for them.”

- Neha Singh, Youth Outreach Advisor, PETA India

CAREER FACTS: ANIMAL RESCUE WORKER Job profile: On any given day, you could be crawling through a sewer, climbing a tree, or digging through a junkyard to rescue a terrified animal; or traveling to an impoverished neighborhood to deliver doghouses, bedding, food, and toys to animals that have been left outdoors.

Income: At an entry level you would start with a salary of `10000 to `15000 per month. Like any other profession, the remuneration depends upon the skill set and experience of an individual candidate.

Skills set: Love for animals and an inherent desire to care for them and protect them, physical fitness (most organisations insist on the ability to lift 50 pounds at any moment without any external help), strong problem solving and crisis management skills, a readiness to be available 24x7 whenever an emergency rescue operation arises.

Study:  Animal first aid training, Sanjay Gandhi Animal Care Centre, New Delhi  Various animal welfare programmes, National Institute of Animal Welfare (NIAW), Ballabhgarh  Diploma in Animal Care, The College of Animal Welfare, UK  Animal Welfare/ Animal Research Training, University of California, San Diego, USA MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 23

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CAREER WATCH

the

USHERS of

STYLE

Fashion styling as a career is a product of people’s constant need to look presentable. Trishann Henriques explores this glamorous new profession

F

ashion shoots, advertising campaigns, runway shows, celebrities and corporate bigwigs have fashion stylists to thank for the eclectic mix of fashion that they present. Let’s just say a fashion stylist is an imperative part of every fashionable display today. A stylist weaves together a person’s look from head to toe; whether it includes picking out clothes and jewellery, or sourcing them to construction of an entire look, a stylist’s job is a dream for anyone who eats and sleeps fashion.

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Mingling with fashion world’s royalty, attending fashion weeks, determining which trends are in and out, dressing some of the most famous faces and assess trendy and fashionable products on a regular basis sums up the profile of a fashion stylist.

THE SCOPE

Adjudged as a glamorous and high profile career, the job of a stylist includes co-ordinating and planning outfits for runway shows, films, fashion shoots for magazines and newspapers, styling celebrities and even personal clients. Over the past few years fashion has moved from being obligatory to a bare necessity.

There is a constant focus on making an impression irrespective of the occasion. This has made the role of a stylist important.

ON THE JOB

 A stylist will have a crucial role to play in all stages from conceptualisation to final production while styling for different forms of media like magazines, newspapers and websites.  At runway shows, a stylist’s job will be to put together looks created by designers.  For films, a stylist will have to select and put together looks that

enhance an actor’s personality and character in the film.  Personal styling encompasses sourcing clothes and providing inputs on what will best suit the person being dressed.  Styling for fashion stores comprise the creation of attractive displays that will ultimately help in sale of products housed by the store.

THE PERKS

“Start off as an apprentice to a fashion stylist. It is a good way to make headway into the business.

Although you may begin by doing the running around, you will definitely establish contacts, adapt to business and learn on the job.”

- Ami Patel, Fashion Stylist

CAREER FACTS: CAREER PROSPECTS FASHION STYLIST Several established stylists are those Job Profile: A fashion stylist is an interpreter of fashion and is expected to be adept with the latest trends in the world of fashion.

Income: `20,000 to `50,000 for a fresher Skills: Abreast with fashion trends, creative, a sense of style Study:  Istituto Marangoni  Mod’art International  Istituti Callegari Milano  Pearl Academy

ROBERT BEJIL, FLICKR

TO BE A FASHION STYLIST

who have had no educational backing in the area. However, today, there are numerous colleges in India alone that offer courses in fashion styling.

An educational background in the field acts as an added advantage as it is through a degree that one learns to establish contacts and also gain concrete experience at the cusp of a full-fledged career. “While there are many who have no styling degree to their name, pursuing one is good as it advances a person’s knowledge. I definitely recommend it,” says Ami Patel, a leading fashion stylist.

One of the biggest perks is the chance to mix with high profile celebrities, models and actors and rub shoulders with national and international designers, all in the name of fashion.

A stylist also has the opportunity to evaluate and make purchases for their clients through runway shows showcased every fashion season. A stylist will thus have front-row access at worldwide fashion weeks.

THE CHALLENGES

While the job of a stylist might look like a dream come true, it is not always as rosy as it seems. Since most stylists work on mfreelance basis, job security is not guaranteed. But those stylists who have gained recognition for their impressive body of work have little to worry about. The competition in the business of fashion is often ruthless; a stylist would therefore be required to stay updated on trends in the fashion world to set them apart from costylists. yi

OF BR A NCHES LING Y FA SHION ST Editorial shoots Celebrities and corporates Advertisements and films Runway shows and highfashion shoots Store and window displays MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 25

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HOW-TO GUIDE

If you have just graduated and are finding it hard to secure a job in the current bleak economy, read on for Rhea Kavarana’s tips on how to kill it in the job scene

I

t is no secret that the global economy is currently in a bad condition. With the drastic rise of the dollar, import duties and increasing excise, India has joined the world and we would be naïve to think that the ripple effect of this economic downfall would not reach us. It has, and it is causing serious problems for job seekers, especially freshers.

The immediate goal of any fresher is to get out of college, sit for placements (both on as well as off campus) and get a job. This has become increasingly difficult in today’s economy as only

a sliver of candidates are getting recruited. Earlier, one would understand that freshers who do not have all the skills would rightly be rejected. Today however, qualified graduates are receiving letters of rejection, which are a red flag and a reason for graduates to up their game.

Now the question that rises here is, how can we combat this? The facts at hand are that the economy is in the doldrums, the job scene is scarce and a newly graduated individual may not get the job he/she had initially coveted. But let this not bog you

down. Like every fight, this can be fought too, and here’s how.

START WITH A BLANK SLATE

Very often, new graduates sit for placements and interviews with a preconceived notion of what they want to do in a company. They have already decided which particular title they want, how much it should pay, what their responsibilities would be, and so on. While ambition must be encouraged, it is also necessary to understand that a graduate has

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B

O T W O H

T A E B

E H T

BA

E

APPLY EVERYWHERE

This point cannot be emphasised enough. Often students choose a certain bunch of companies/firms, covet them for their brand value and are adamant about applying there.

While there is absolutely no harm in doing so, it is also necessary for freshers to also apply elsewhere. Keep your goal in mind and work towards it, even if it is a coveted firm. But also understand the condition of the economy and apply to several places.

It is important to note that when freshers start out in a big firm, they often get lost in the vastness of the company, which is already so huge.

Getting recognised in such scenarios is difficult. If a fresher begins in a smaller firm, he/she can not only take on more responsibility, but will also gain more industry experience, which will help him/her in future applications.

D

TUNING YOUR RESUMÉ

OM ON EC

Often freshers tend to have a CV that is stored as a template and fired out on email to several companies.

This is one of their biggest mistakes.

Recruiters go through thousands of resumes in order to choose applicants, so understand what each company is specifically looking for and tune your own resumé to reflect that you, in fact, offer that. Personalise each resume to fit the needs of the company.

Highlight what they are looking for.

This is time consuming but is more appreciated than a one-shoe-fits-all CV.

STAY AHEAD OF THE CURVE

Employers today are looking for multi-faceted individuals who can handle more than one job role. This is done to cut costs from the employers’

Y

little or no experience in the real world of a work environment. Therefore, start afresh. Approach a company with your skills and strong points and give them what you have to offer. At the same time, be open to positions outside of what you came through the door imagining. Trust the company. They will train you to do a job that you may become really good at. This openness will increase your chances of landing a job, as it broadens the horizon of jobs you are initially willing to take on.

“While giving an interview, freshers should bring up how their career goals align with the organisation in question’s goals rather than just jumping at the ‘ brand’ of the organisation. For example if you go for an ad sales role and highlight how you've studied advertising and are interested in working in the field, this shows that you have come with a goal and a valid reason.”

- Disha Makharia, Assistant Manager (Human Resources), Conde Nast Publications (India) end. Therefore, it is vital to show the potential employer through your resumé as well as interviews that you are a multifaceted candidate who can handle more than one job role.

Diversity is the name of the game and if you can do the job of two while being just one, the chances of you getting hired increase.

GIVE A GREAT INTERVIEW

We all have heard time and again about the importance of a great interview. This applies more so in a bad economy. It is so important to come across as a professional, intelligent individual who can handle workload. This largely affects the probability of getting a job. If a fresher comes across as anything less than topnotch (especially in trying times like this) a job is almost guaranteed to not come your way. So pull your socks up and give a killer interview. yi MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 27

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AWARENESS

DECODING YOUR

INTELLIGENCE Ever sat in a class where everyone seems to understand what is going on except you? This is not because you are stupid, but because you have an intelligence that differs from those around you.

Dermatoglyphics is the scientific study of fingerprints, and a test called Dermatoglyphic Multiple Intelligence Evaluation or Test (DMIE, DMIT) deciphers an individual’s unique intellect.

WHAT IS A DERMATOGLYPHICS MULTIPLE INTELLIGENCE (DMI)?

Dermatoglyphics involves an analysis of fingerprints. Derived from Greek words ‘derma’ meaning skin and ‘glyphe’ meaning carving, it originated in the late 1800s and has today transformed into one of the most sought after intelligence

In an attempt to better understand a person’s personality and level of intelligence, Payal Mohta decodes the Dermatoglyphic Multiple Intelligence Test and its viability today tests called Dermatoglyphics Multiple Intelligence or DMI. The reason why dermatoglyphics is so popular is because it can record a person’s intelligence, skills, talents and potential. This study of fingerprints has therefore gained widespread popularity across the board with school and college students and working professionals all looking to weigh the kind and level of intelligence that they were born with.

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WHO IS A DMI TEST FOR?

INSTITUTES OFFERING DMIE DMI test is not limited to a specific age group; in fact, it can be taken by Mind Tech, Gujarat everyone from toddlers to students and even working professionals. Once Institute of Multiple Inteltaken the test might hold a different ligences, India level of importance for each person.

International Academy It is not only helpful to individuals of Multiple Intelligences but also to educational institutions (IMI), India to understand their students better; Brain Child Learning, for corporate persons in the realm of employee recruitment and also for Kuala Lumpur improvement of personal, day-to-day For professionals relationships.  Identify and develop core competencies WHY TAKE A DMI TEST?  Identify suitable learning and  To understand one’s personality leadership styles  To personalise academic and  Rekindle forgotten professional extracurricular activities ambitions  Discover strengths and limitations  Invest in suitable self-development  Make suitable academic and programmes career choices WHO IS IT FOR? For students

 Identify a child’s traits and innate intelligence, which can be altered at this stage  Implement suitable parenting and teaching methods and choose the right school for the child  Identify with the aim to improve weak learning spots in a child  Discover a child’s learning style and ability so as to choose suitable activities for them

“The future of India depends on brain mapping and the DMI test because our population is so vast.

We know of only 6% of our intelligence, the other 94% is what brain mapping and IMI’s SW0T (strengths,weaknesses,o pportunities and threats) test tries to tap into.”

- Veshal Shah, Chairman, IMI (Mumbai)

For recruiters

 Enables companies to select suitable candidates with the right abilities.  Recognise an employee’s potential and maximise their efficiency  Facilitate efficient communication  Allow management to predominate human resource distribution  Create an all-star work force

For better careers

 Subject and stream selection  Reduces time, money and effort wasted over irrelevant classes  Gives right teaching/parenting method for educational guidance

For educational institutes

 Understand students’ natural character traits, potentials and weaknesses  Tailor-make students’ learning programme  Make class divisions according to student learning sensitivity  Assist students for effective communication with parents

For relationships

 To understand behavioural patterns, individual value systems and characteristics  Develop understanding through bridging the gap of miscommunication

 To distribute micro and macro responsibilities

THE LIMITATIONS  Dependency on these tests can prevent individuals from experimenting with career choices, jobs and relationships.  The human mind is far too complex to be completely analysed through this or any scientific method.  Fingerprints may be unalterable but through our experiences and interactions with people our intelligence may be subject to change.

HOW RELIABLE IS A DMI TEST?

Conventional personality evaluations such as aptitude tests often elicit emotional responses. On the other hand, in DMI, evaluations are based on fingerprints that are unalterable and cannot be influenced by environment, behaviour or emotions. Dermatoglyphics is a professional industry that combines neurobiology, genetics and embryology.

Fingerprint patterns are not random.

They are part of an individual’s genetic makeup. In ‘anencephaly,’ a disease where one is born without the brain, it is found that even fingerprints are missing. During the development of the foetus, finger prints and brain development take place simultaneously.

Hence, it can clearly be said that the study of fingerprints are accurate and unchangeable. yi

DERMATOGLYPHICS FACTS ŦŦDermatoglyphics has been in use for more than 200 years. ŦŦUnlike palmistry dermatoglyphics is a scientific method and does not involve foretelling a person’s future. ŦŦCertain dermatoglyphic patterns have been associated with certain genetic disorders.

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THE EMPLOYER

INTERVIEWING

A typical job interview has widened its horizons – it now allows applicants to ask their interviewer questions.

Nirva Vira proposes questions that will make the right impression

WORKPLACE HACKS

SUSANNE13, FLICKR

HOW-TO GUIDE

C

old feet before a job interview is second nature; after all, you are expected to emerge victorious amongst students with CVs that might be as convincing as your own. But in spite of the competition, it is important to leave an impression in the mind of your future employer. Leave anxiety behind, calm your nerves and convince him that you are the right fit for the job.

How do you do that and how do you get the interviewer to choose you over the rest? It’s simple – you question your interviewer.

“How would you describe the company’s culture and leadership philosophy?”

An important question, it displays an interest in the job and that time and trouble has been put into your research.

A company’s working style and their culture reflect aspects that otherwise aren’t that easy to spot. For example, a company could be hierarchical – employees may be given an opportunity to ideate in order of their rank. It could also be flexible and allow all employees to brainstorm together regardless of their rank. Knowing the company culture will

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A CV is the most important, and often, the only way to showcase your capabilities to an interviewer. But there might be details it is missing.

Through this question you allow yourself a chance to defend yourself before the interviewer makes a decision. Also, the interviewer would get a chance to weigh all your pros and cons and judge you more clearly.

“How do you see this position as contributing to the success of the organisation?”

It is a modest way of saying you want to make it big in the company. It shows that you hold the company’s progress and success before your own.

Also, that you are ambitious and yet unselfish. And of course it gives a faint idea of the importance of your position in the organisation.

“What improvments do you hope I will bring to this?"

If this job isn’t a new opening, then obviously someone held it before.

Although asking why the person who held it quit might pass you off as inquisitive, the interviewer might give you an answer. And vague though it might be, it will give you a hint of what the reason was. It will provide you direction if you are selected and will also show the interviewer that you are eager to be selected and keen to do the job sincerely and successfully.

“In what way is performance measured and reviewed?”

“Why do you see me as a probable candidate?”

It is your chance to get the interviewer

30 Workplace Hacks .indd 31

This question will help understand the requirements of the job and the expectations of the interviewer. It will compel the interviewer to look at you as a person, beyond a piece of paper – your CV – and to see whether you possess the qualities required for the job.

“What comes next?”

Whether you intend to be in a company for a long or a short while, knowing your future is important.

When talking about the future, do not pay attention only to the remuneration, but also to the changes in designation as you move up the ladder. Knowing that you have something to work toward is good motivation.

“What is the top priority of a person in this position?”

This question will help you understand the priorities that come with the job and what you will be expected to do if you are hired.

Without knowing what is expected of you, it will be hard to meet goals and make an impression. The question will make clear your job, position, role and your tasks.

“Are my qualifications sufficient for this position?”

Every job today requires a certain amount of professional qualifications.

That doesn’t mean that those who do not have them cannot be hired.

Putting out questions about your education and qualifications implies that you have no qualms about discussing your probable professional weaknesses. If you do receive feedback, using it constructively will greatly help you in the long run. yi

Does the job come with any benefits?

Show us how we will benefit from you first.

So what does your company do?

Seriously, have you done no research?

How quickly can I be promoted?

Slow down, mister.

Does the company monitor computer and internet usage?

Maybe we’ll monitor yours.

Did I get the job?

Patience sweetie; don’t tempt me to say no.

What happened to the last person who had this job?

It’s none of your business.

STUDIOTDES,FLICKR

This question will put forth your hunger for appreciation and ambition, thus inferring an eagerness to do well in the company. The added bonus is that you too will discover what it takes to emerge victorious.

“What personality traits would one require to excel at this job?”

Does the company do background checks?

Why, do you have something to hide?

Q U E S T I O N S YO U ’ D R AT H E R N O T A S K

“Is there anything missing in my CV?”

to summarise your credibility and picture you as being the candidate to be chosen. He will also be forced to rethink what is needed in an ideal candidate and try and fit you into that mould.

Q U E S T I O N S YO U ’ D R AT H E R N O T A S K

give you an insight into what could be your future.

Questions put to your interviewer can either break or make your interview.

Here are some questions to steer clear of.

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FOREIGN SHORES

Before you decide on a foreign school, it might be helpful to pay a visit to the campuses on your list.

Aparna Sundaresan tells you what to look for during your visit

A F O T S O M MAKE THE

V

isiting a school before deciding to study there is an axiomatic part of the admission process.

This is when you assess if a certain institute lives up to your expectations and everything else you have heard and read about in your research.

Virtually all universities and other higher education institutes hold open days – days prospective students are invited to the campus to have a look at the place for themselves.

The open day

Open day visits are organised and overseen by the institute. You are given a guided tour of the campus and are shown a variety of things –

accommodation, classrooms, libraries, hangout spots; some even allow you to sit for a lecture and meet the faculty.

Behind the scenes

A guided tour of the campus is the safest way the institute can show you the cleanest, prettiest and best parts of itself, which means what you glean from your visit could be misleading.

To make the most of an open day, you will have to see more than what is shown to you.

Classrooms

It is more likely that you will be shown the ‘hi-tech’ lecture halls and classrooms on your tour. Ask the

tour guide to show you some regular classrooms, either in the same building or another. You could even ask to be shown the lecture rooms in the department building you might be studying in. You could even peep into some classrooms as you walk around campus.

Accommodation

Plush, hotel-like rooms and residences will be the star of the show, but it may not be revealed to you that those rooms are reserved for final year students, postgraduates or PhD students. First-year accommodations tend to be far more modest. Request your guide to show you residences reserved for the freshmen.

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GOING OFF THE TRACK

Library

Libraries usually occupy an entire building, spanning over many floors.

While you might be shown the floor with the best collection or the most facilities, you might also be given time to yourself to explore other floors. Do visit the floor that houses books of your subject interest. See how thick the shelves are. Survey the variety available.

Student hangouts

Pubs, restaurants, cafes and clubs that dot the campus make for a pretty picture. The ambience in these establishments will give you an idea of what the student body is like. Do also visit the students’ union building to see what the students themselves offer

to their mates. It would do well to scan through the university newspaper to discover the activities on campus.

University newspapers are also the best sources of information on the problems that plague the students.

Meet the faculty

The itinerary might include a meetand-greet with professors. Take this opportunity to ask them how the course is conducted, how many lectures are in a week, how many students are taught in a lesson, etc.

Find out who might be teaching your class. Are they top faculty members, or are they reserved for PhD students?

Book your place

Several universities earmark certain

UNIVERSITY OF SALFORD, FLICKR

Y A D N E P O N F A

When you have the campus to yourself, either after the end of the tour, or when you are visiting independently outside of an open day, evaluate the place on these terms:  Where is the university?

Does it have a campus in the outskirts or is it in the middle of a bustling city/town? Which ambience is better suited to you?  Observe the general mood of the students milling about.

Open days are held in the best season of the year – usually summer – and at this time students feel the best. If you can afford it, visit during a lesser pleasant season to gauge the state of the campus then.  Talk to the students on campus, either in the canteens or the grounds, and ask them for their honest opinions.  Get ‘lost’ in the campus.

Take roads that were not taken during the tour. Explore the area.  Check out how well the institute is connected by public transport. Hang around at a campus bus stop and make a note of the bus schedule. How far away is the nearest city or town? days as open days in their calendar, and you may choose one of them as your day to visit. However, as an international student, some universities also allow you to pick a date as per your convenience as they understand the constraints of international travel. In either case, you must inform the university well in time of your plans.

Travelling overseas is an expensive affair, so if you have made the decision to visit international campuses, utilise the time wisely. Do not treat campus visits as mere holidays, but consider them with seriousness, as they are an integral part of your research. yi MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 33

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YOUTH ISSUES

NISARG KAMADAR ANALYSES THE BAN ON TWITTER IN TURKEY BEFORE ITS ELECTIONS AND WHETHER THE MOVE IS INDICATIVE OF THE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN A DEMOCRACY

THE STORY OF TURKEY

India has 125 million internet users.

On an average, Indian web users spend 26 minutes online each day. On an average, Facebook is visited at least thrice a day. Does this alter the way in which elections are fought in this country? Has social media evolved to the stage where it influences and even swings elections?

Turkey’s latest political maelstrom had social media websites at its epicentre. Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan decided to ban Twitter couple of weeks before the local elections were to occur. Erdogan, who had previously referred to the website as society’s “worst menace” was piqued by the release of incriminating audio recordings revealing corruption inside his government on Twitter.

He next banned YouTube when an audio recording of a high-level security meeting was leaked on the website.

What followed was a classic case of the Streisand effect. The Streisand effect is the phenomenon whereby an attempt to hide, remove, or censor a piece of information has the unintended consequence of publicising the information more widely, usually facilitated by the internet. Residents of Turkey found ingenious ways of getting around the blocks and accessing the social media networks.

Turkey has 32 million Facebook users (41.59% of the population) and 9 million Twitter users (11% of the population). This constitutes the fourth largest and eighth largest base for the respective social networks.

Most political pundits therefore expected the Prime Minister’s party to perform poorly in the upcoming local

elections. Defying all predictions, the ruling Justice and Development Party scored a resounding victory. The lack of impact is baffling, considering social media had played an integral role in facilitating several anti-government protests in Turkey in the past year.

DOES SOCIAL MEDIA MATTER?

It is extremely difficult to quantify social media’s role in the vicissitudes of electoral politics. In democracies social media sets the agenda. 24x7 news channels have lost their hegemony.

People are telling journalists what stories they want to see and read.

Every network channel has a segment or a separate show on the day’s social media trends. Such an inclusive pattern forces television anchors and opinion makers to be more accommodative of alternate views and

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TWITTER AND POLITICS IN INDIA

Parties hire social media agencies, who, using dummy accounts, tweet using a certain hash tag, thus getting the topic to trend.

In short, the social media networks are open to manipulation.

THE PULSE OF THE NATION

A staggering 44% of Twitter users have never tweeted which raises several questions over the viability of such mediums as references for the pulse of the nation. Quite ironically, social media networks which were supposed to be the bastion of free speech have now been reduced to a bunch of online armies slanging it out in a contest laced with profanity.

Especially during election season, social media tended to feed the mob frenzy. Any heretic opinion was treated with contempt and became the subject of ridicule and threats.

A mature democracy is one which accommodates every opinion under one umbrella and there is a need to guard against such rabid chauvinism

DONKEYHOTEY, FLICKR

12.6% of the Indian population uses internet services. With such an abysmal rate of penetration, social media played an important but limited role in the general elections.

Unlike other major democracies, social media in India has been unable to substantially engage the poorest and most marginalised in political processes.

Social media was harvested well by the Aam Aadmi party to crowd source ideas for their manifesto. AAP was also extremely successful in mobilising funds for its political campaign through pleas on social media.

Out of 93 million Facebook users, 90% are eligible to vote. Politicians reached out to their constituents through constant updates and answering queries. This created a personal interest in the candidate.

However, the control of political discourse via social media is peppered with potential pitfalls. A recent sting operation showed how political parties are using social media agencies to generate a pseudo buzz around them.

This is predominantly observed on Twitter where it is easy to create a buzz around a topic or to get it to trend.

MENTAL BALANCE, FLICKR

keeps them in touch with prevailing moods.

Social media has also led to the democratisation of news. News is no longer just the purview of an elite group of journalists. Rather, each and everyone one of us is a broadcaster, capable of shaping opinions. The trends represent the prevailing mindset of the majority of the users on the network.

There is however a tendency of social media, especially Twitter, to turn into an echo chamber. People tend to follow folks with similar views, and they tend to keep parroting on another’s opinion, thus convincing themselves that they indeed are the opinions of the people at large. This is particularly exacerbated in the case of media persons.

on social media. The impact of social media on political processes remains controversial and not well understood.

Social media though, cannot be ignored. How it can most effectively be used to prolong engagement between the government and elected representative, and the proletariat beyond the election period must dominate the policy initiatives of the new government. yi MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 35

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PRODIGY How did you start designing smartphone applications at such a young age?

I started using computers when I was 3 years old. My parents guided me on using age-appropriate tools and introduced me to all areas of computer technology including programming. I started building small applications that worked on desktops. The purchase of my dad’s first smartphone

was a turning point for me.

He suggested I use MIT’s programming tool ‘App Inventor’ to learn how to develop mobile apps. I was able to master the tool in a few days and developed my first app to win the first prize in MIT’s App Inventor App Contest. From that point on I started focussing on developing apps that could help make lives better, and started my own company LateraLogics.

At the age of 14, Arjun S has won two Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) contests, designed two Android apps and started his own company. Sean Sequeira talks to him about his achievements

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What is an average day in your life?

I catch up with the news and my mails the first thing in the morning.

I also try to find time to make a few updates and shares with my connections on LinkedIn. I practice yoga and badminton in school. As soon as I reach home in the evening, I spend some time with my friends in my apartment. I study with guidance from my mom. After studies, I spend a couple of hours on my computer to research, study, and practice programming and designing.

How did you decide to participate in MIT's App Inventor App Contest?

The MIT App Inventor App Contest was held in December 2012. I found out about the contest only a few days before it happened. I was able to train myself since I had a solid background in the basics of programming. In those days of planning, I arrived home late from school and saw how worried my parents were. It was at that time I thought of developing a solution for parents to track their wards’ school buses. That is how Ez School Bus Locator app was born and became my entry for the contest.

Having won MIT-organised contests, do you plan on studying at the institute?

It is a dream for me to study at MIT. I would consider myself lucky if I get the opportunity in the future to attend the classes conducted by the wonderful professors of the institute.

Could you briefly describe your applications Ez School Bus Locator and i-Safe?

Ez School Bus Locator is the only free school bus and student tracker app available in the Android market. It helps parents track their ward in the school bus until they reach home from school. Parents without smartphone can also use the app through SMS. The app won the first prize (K-8 category) in the MIT App Inventor App Contest held in December 2012.

iSafeGuard is a women and teen safety mobile application. It lets women send distress calls to preset phone numbers and pre-registered activists with the push of a button.

Both apps are available on Google Play Store and Amazon Store for free download.

Why have you designed sociallydriven products so far? What are your plans with LateraLogics?

I carry a passion for finding solutions for people’s problems. I started LateraLogics with a vision to come up with solutions to make our world a better place. Our focus is on developing computer and mobile applications for solutions to everyday problems. Our motto is ‘Great Solutions Come From Small Problems.’ My dream is to establish LateraLogics as one of the most innovative and successful companies in the world.

What are the next few app ideas you plan on executing?

I plan on creating intelligent personal assistant application that can interact with us in more natural ways. I also have plans for a community app that can help people respond to everyday situations in more engaging ways.

Do you find a lot of app developers in your age group?

There are many app developers in my age group. I’m connected to many of them and am trying to work collaboratively with them on some of the projects.

What should a student do if they plan on becoming an app developer but can’t afford the expenses of a formal education?

Information and options are available freely on the web. I was able to learn programming languages on my own without any coaching or training.

MIT’s App Inventor is an open source tool that helps anybody to learn the basics of programming for free. Even for the most complex languages, today

QUICK CLICKS THREE HOBBIES Badminton, designing and electronics ROLE MODEL Steve Jobs YOUR DREAM JOB Company head FAVOURITE BOOKS Sherlock Holmes, Digital Companies that Changed the World we have plenty of learning materials freely available online in the form of guides and videos.

What words of advice would you offer students who look up to you?

My message is: “Look for problems around you, and get inspired from them. You’ll see a lot of opportunities to use your (own) skills to make this world a better place to live!” yi MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 37

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RENDEZVOUS WITH

ANTARCTICA 29

Sarita Singh visited the ice continent as part of the International Antarctic Expedition (IAE) in March. She shares her adventures and experiences with Youth Inc

-year-old Sarita Singh is Senior Project Manager in an IT company and a PADI certified deep sea diver.

She is also one of many people across the globe to have been a part of Robert Swan’s International Antarctic Expedition for 2014. Swan is a renowned Polar explorer and environmentalist who takes entrepreneurs, environmentalists, corporate leaders, teachers and other young people to Antarctica annually. The aim of IAE is to increase awareness of the Antarctic clime and to build skills through a number of programmes held during the trip.

MY INSPIRATION TO BE PART OF IAE

The idea of a journey to the very end of the earth, a place which belongs to no one; to be with young people who are inspired and united by a common cause to stand as one and do their bit to protect the earth – this thought inspired me to file an application for IAE.

PREPRATIONS!

The expedition started on 8 March when a group of 80 selected representatives (including 15 expedition leaders) from different countries and professions assembled in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southern-most city in the world.

We spent three days here attending indoor and outdoor training sessions on trekking, hiking, surviving the cold and the safety measures to be taken while in Antarctica and on the ship.

ALL IMAGES BY JOHN LUCK

CROSSING THE MIGHTY OCEANS

On March 11 our excited group boarded a mighty vessel which would be our floating home for the next two weeks. It took us two days to cross the unfriendly Drake Passage before we closed in on Antarctica. It is in this turbulent and hostile passage that two mighty oceans, the 38 Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

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Atlantic and Pacific, collide.

Various seminars on environment, climatic changes, leadership, history of Antarctic exploration, exploitation, marine life and biodiversity were held on the ship.

AN UNUSUAL WELCOME

We were welcomed to the Antarctic Peninsula by a group of Minkie whales.

They were huge and elegant, diving in and out of the ocean, right in front of our eyes.

Awestruck, we watched these friendly mammals welcome its new visitors to their home.

FEELING LIKE ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Surrounded by near vertical peaks on either side, the Lemaire Channel in Antarctica is extremely steep sided and is only visible once you are almost inside, and it provides one of the most dramatic landscapes to sail through. We had a zodiac cruise (cruise on a fixed landing gear airplane) around this channel where blocks and blocks of ice bergs drifted and seals lazed around. We spotted a few penguins moving in and out of water, dancing in their natural habitat. I felt like Alice in Wonderland, for the ice was not just boring and white – but of different colours, shapes and sizes – constantly moving and looming behind us at times.

to sit near them quietly and wait for them to walk to us, which they did! Some gave us friendly stares and some maintained their distance.

CAMPING IN THE COLDEST PLACE ON EARTH

I think this was the craziest thing we did on the expedition – we left the comfort of our floating home, and with our sleeping bags, tents and warmers we camped under the glittering stars and a full moon with penguins and seals to keep us company.

SIGHTING WHALES

We were lucky to catch sight of five humpback whales which came really close to our zodiacs and smiled and blowed at us. Antarctica was giving us all – good weather, hikes, history, penguins, seals and now humpbacks.

POLAR PLUNGE

The polar plunge was a dip into the ice cold water of Antarctica without a dry suit. I skipped this activity though I regret it now.

ANTARCTICA SPEAKS

While on the expedition, I felt extremely happy and could not believe I was living these moments, but at the same time I was haunted by sadness. We, in our day-to-

day life, are doing things to kill this place. I woke up to climatic changes, global warming and our impact on the environment in the name of economic development. Antarctica speaks to you, while it surprises you with its beauty. It tells you a tale of exploration, exploitation and conservation.

AFTER ANTARCTICA

I plan to work on a year-long sustainability project to promote the use of clean fuel in boats and renewable energy sources in Andaman Islands. I would also like to do my best in keeping the oceans clean. Being a diver myself, I would like to help in conserving our corals and reefs in this part of the world.

However, I feel before anything is attempted on an individual level, the government and corporates need to help build a framework of policies for such efforts. I request you to join hands with me and help me create a ripple, a voice for such issues. An environment we live and breathe in, which gives us everything for free, is polluted and undergoing drastic changes due to our activities. It is asking you for a favour – not for itself, but for you and your future generations to live. yi

BLISS IN PARADISE HARBOUR

Named by whalers for its beauty, Paradise Harbour is arguably one of the most aptly named spots on Earth. Surrounded by glaciers that dramatically cave into the sea, Paradise Harbour offered breathtaking reflections of the mountains against clear, unspoiled waters.

A TRYST WITH PENGUINS Thousands of penguins milled around the coast at Neko Harbour. We were allowed

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COVER STORY

A Summer of

Come summer and the longest vacation of the year begins.

Youth Inc has some ideas on how you can utilise the free time you have on your hands – by indulging in a hobby and building some essential skills for life

al u s Vi rts A

g n i rm o rf rts e P A

Social Services

Media and Communication

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summer holidays are a time of absolute thrill for every student. It is the end of the academic year, there is nothing more to study (not yet), no homework to do (for most) and no exams to worry about (unless you’re preparing for entrance tests).

For a month, and sometimes two, students are left to their own devices.

This is the only time they can relish lazing around and doing nothing.

But being inactive becomes boring soon. Maybe you sleep, eat, watch TV, surf the internet and play games on a typical summer day. But then you repeat that all over again the next day.

Your routine loops. You stagnate. And you realise you have another month, perhaps, of the holidays left. What are you going to do?!

A better vacation perhaps would be one where you can do what you love without worrying about getting tired of it. How? We reckon you could explore a hobby you already have, or a new one you’d like to develop. Whatever you choose, this season hosts a variety of classes

and crash courses in practically all areas of interests that would cater to your choice. Enrol in a tennis camp, or learn how to build an Android app; learn how to play the piano, or improve your design skills.

The following pages are meant to serve as a starting point for your summer of hobbies. Apart from introducing you to the several options available in India, we tell you what kind of skills you must look to develop from courses and classes, as well as what skills you develop that will last a lifetime and assist you in attaining your long-term goals. Yes, your hobby can indeed amount to something more than a mere time-killing activity.

Sports

y t i al ent n o pm s r Pe evelo D

y g o ol n ch e T

Outdoor Activities

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COURTNEY CARMODY, FLICKR

COVER STORY

Visual Arts

VANCOUVER FILM SCHOOL, FLICKR

ERIC MAY, FLICKR

A summer of

A flair for design, the want to capture everything on celluloid and an eye for fashion comprises a summer of visual arts. Here is a list of options for a break filled with versatile forms of art SKILLS FOR LIFE  Conscious: Photography is all about timing. A photographer learns to be aware and alert at all times.  Out of the box thinking: Developed from constantly thinking about how a story or a feeling can be told through a single photograph.

Photography

Photographs not only bring meaning to stories, but also act as storytellers all on their own. This summer, pick up your camera and enrol for a photography workshop.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Picture composition  Knowledge about lenses  Lighting

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Sports photography • Fashion photography • Landscape and portrait photography • Photojournalism CLASSES THIS SUMMER Photography Crash Course by National Institute of Photography, Mumbai This crash course covers everything from the basic to an advanced understanding of photography.

Date: 9 May More information: http://www. focusnip.com/Course/CrashCourse Foundation in Photography by Indian School of Photography, New Delhi Conducted in small groups, this workshop is aimed at skill development through interactive and group sessions.

Dates: 10 May to 25 May More information: http:// indianschoolofphotography.com/ foundation.html

Fine Art

Fine art is great skill to hone during the summer break. The old saying is true – every artist was once an amateur. Getting the basics right through a short term course is worth the investment.

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Dates: 5 May- 5 June More information: http://www. mycity4kids.com/Mumbai/Hobbies/ Maithilis-Institute-of-PerformingArts_Sion/56922_bd

Fashion

Do you spend the better part of your day reading Vogue? Or do you enjoy creating your own outfits? If yes, a glimpse into the world of fashion maybe right for you.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Basic brush strokes HOBBY CHECKLIST  Knowledge of colour combinations  Use of different fabrics  Picture composition  Designing for body shapes  Sewing SKILLS FOR LIFE  Presentation skills: A person SKILLS FOR LIFE interested in art tends to pay attention  Look presentable: The perks of to details and looks to make an an interest in fashion translates to a impression. good sense of style. Dressing the part  Communication: The expression is therefore never a problem. of ideas through the medium of art.  Confidence: Fashion needs  Critique: Positive and negative presentation of ideas with élan. critique are part of the learning  Be yourself: Fashion is all about process at art school; a student of art expression; an individual learns to learns to take all kinds of criticism in promote his ideas with pride. In short, his stride. one learns to be him/herself.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Painter • Cartoonist • Art curator • Art director

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Fashion journalism • Fashion blogging • Fashion designing / styling

CLASSES THIS SUMMER Certificate course in Fine Arts by CLASSES THIS National Institute of Fine Arts, New SUMMER Delhi Design by The Offering several subject combinations University of Fashion that include painting, sketching, (online) illustration, landscape, etc, the courses This online course offered can be customised as per helps design clothes individual interests. through video lessons Dates: 15 May to 15 June/ 15 July and step-by-step Moreinformation: http://nifafinearts. tutorials. com/hobby-courses.html More information: http://www.

Fine Art and Creative Skills by universityoffashion.

Maithili’s Institute of Performing com Arts, Mumbai One too many art courses to choose Fashion Styling from, the courses offered at Maithili’s by FAD Academy, Institute of Performing Arts are Mumbai and Pune spread across a month and admit Styling for celebrities students of all age groups. and socialites, fashion

shoots, movies etc, this fashion course can be used for personal and professional requirements.

Dates: 8 May to 8 July More information: http://www. fadacademy.com/programme-detail. php?id=4&sid=6&ssid=2

Graphics & Animation

If your creativity comes to light through pictures and moving images, these courses are for you.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Fundamentals of design  Devlopment of a style  Basic utility of different software SKILLS FOR LIFE  Business skills: A person learns to design as per the needs of different businesses. They also learn marketing which helps greatly at different stages of a person’s career.  People skills: Mutual respect and understanding of ideas of clients and co-workers.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Graphic designer • Website designers and developers • Advertising companies CLASSES THIS SUMMER Design Fundamentals by Ecole Intuit Lab, Mumbai The course touches upon varied aspects of graphics. A student learns positive and negative space, design techniques and art appreciation.

Dates: 12 to 16 May; 16 to 20 June More information: http://www. ecole-intuit-lab.co.in/en/course/ summer Photoshop by MAAC Animation Institute, pan India (online) Spread across two months, this online course in Photoshop will give a student all the training he/she needs to master the application and create graphics.

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COVER STORY

A summer of

performing arts

If ascending the stage and regaling an audience seems your raison d’être, summer is the best time to hone the performer in you

Music

What words cannot express, music can.

Music aficionados are known to indulge in their passion either through singing or playing an instrument, or both.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Improved physical dexterity, memory and concentration  Fundamental knowledge of music theory  An understanding of different styles and genres  Reading music notes and notations SKILLS FOR LIFE  Self-management: Music needs discipline and regular practise.  Technical skills: The influence of technology in today’s music is

indispensible.  Teamwork: Playing in a band sensitises one to others’ needs and emotions.  Performing under pressure: Stage fright must be overcome to perform for people.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Professional performer • Film and TV composer/scorer • Musicologist/ethnomusicologist • Music therapist • Music critic CLASSES THIS SUMMER Superstar Summer by True School of Music, Mumbai Ultimate Rockstar: This camp will put you in a band and teach you how to write a song, arrange it, record it and perform it live.

Dates: 5 May to 18 May Ultimate DJ: Learn to pick a genre, and mix and record music using turntables and mixers.

Dates: 5 May to 18 May

More information: http://www. trueschool.in Summer programmes by KM Music Conservatory, Chennai Western Voice: This course will cover technique, posture, breathing and the fundaments of singing, as well as the staging and dramatisation of music.

Dates: 12 May to 28 May Western Piano: The course will cover technique, posture, finger exercises and notation. Students will be taught pieces according to their skill level.

Dates: 12 May to 28 May More information: http://kmmc.in/ courses/summer-programmes-2014/ CNB Music Summer Intensive by Chinmaya Naada Bindu, Kolwan, Maharashtra A 7-day residential training programme in Hindustani music in the lush environs of rural Maharashtra.

Dates: 31 May to 6 June More information: http:// chinmayanaadabindu.org

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Dance

Dancing is not merely shaking an arm or a leg; expression is as important as rhythm and movement. India has a mixed bag of classical, western and contemporary dance styles.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Understanding the nuances of rhythm and time  Becoming aware of your body  Improving posture, balance, flexibility and coordination  Better stamina SKILLS FOR LIFE  Confidence and self-awareness: Dance teaches you to be proud of your body, no matter what.  Self-discipline: Like music, dance needs regular practise.  Teamwork: Performing with a dance group teaches team dynamics.  An open mind: Movement can come from anywhere; dance relies on experimentation.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Professional dancer • Choreographer • Dance teacher/instructor • Dance critic CLASSES THIS SUMMER Shiamak Summer Intensive 2014 by Shiamak Davar, Mumbai Spend 9 hours a day dancing under the watchful eye of Shiamak Davar himself and a host of international dance stalwarts Dates: 4 May to 25 May More information: http://www. shiamak.com/summerintensive/ Belly Dance Summer Crash Course

by Banjara School of Dance, New Delhi A 7-day intensive course that covers the basics of belly dancing.

Dates: 21 to 23 and 26 to 29 May; 4 to 6 and 9 to 12 June More information: http://www. banjaradance.com/summer_cc.php

SKILLS FOR LIFE  Public speaking: Acting requires clear delivery of lines to an audience without losing out on eloquence.  Confidence: Like other stage arts, acting requires one to overcome stage fright and perform to an audience.  Improved body language: Your body and face are trained to tell stories of various characters.

Theatre

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Professional actor • Theatre director • Drama therapist • Stage presenter/compere

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Familiarity with the stage and the concept of space  How to break down a given scene  How to inhabit a character  A better stage presence

CLASSES THIS SUMMER Academy of Performing Arts, New Delhi Scene study course: This four-week class will teach you the nuances of interpreting and acting a scene.

Dates: 4 May onwards Acting for camera: This four-week class will take you through the

If you think you have been bitten by the acting bug, develop your skills with workshops and classes. Acting on stage is the usual starting point.

CNB Dance Summer Intensive by Chinmaya Naada Bindu, Kolwan, Maharashtra A 7-day residential training for Bharatanatyam dancers in an arts ashram in rural Maharashtra.

Dates: 31 May to 6 June More information: http:// chinmayanaadabindu.org

nuances of acting for the camera.

Dates: 11 May onwards More information: http://academy. chilsag.com/?page_id=195 Certificate course in acting by Anupam Kher’s An Actor Prepares, Mumbai This month-long class offered by Anupam Kher’s acting school is a crash course in the essentials of Bollywood – acting and dance.

Dates: 5 May to 31 May More information: http://www. actorprepares.net/courses/part-timecourse IMPS! Acting and Improvisation Workshop by Divya Palat, Mumbai Noted stage actress Divya Palat’s workshop is a combination of acting and improv as well as mime and music.

Dates: 6 May to 20 June More information: http://www. mumbaitheatreguide.com/dramas/ workshop/workshop_view.asp?id_ wrkshp=762&dt=562014 MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 45

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TULANE PUBLIC RELATIONS, FLICKR

COVER STORY

A summer of

media and communication BART EVERSON, FLICKR

JASON HOWIE, FLICKR

If you love connecting with people through various mediums, you may want to think about perfecting your communication skills this summer

 Practise writing outside your comfort zone  Learn to critique and appreciate works of professional writers

Creative Writing

The pen has always been mightier than the sword. Very few tangible skills can compare with the ability to express oneself through words.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Learn the basics of grammar  Get introduced to various genres of writing

SKILLS FOR LIFE  Imagination: One of the biggest plus points of creative writing.  Problem solving: Working around problems in stories develops the ability to deal with them naturally.  Insight: Looking at stories from different perspectives will give you more insight in future tasks.  General knowledge: Inculcating a habit of reading and writing will make you well-read over time.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Journalist • Novelist • Playwright • Screenwriter • Copywriter CLASSES THIS SUMMER Creative Writing course by British Council, New Delhi The course will cover fiction, short stories, poetry and dialogue writing to give you the ability to write creatively.

Dates: 12 May to 30 May More information: http://www. britishcouncil.in/english/coursesadults/creative-writing

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Film appreciation

The entertainment industry in India is a religion based on films and the lives of film stars. Not many choose to learn film appreciation but you can take the initiative this summer.

Radio Jockey

Once the greatest source of entertainment and news around the world, radio is still extensively favoured in India and radio jockeys enjoy a position of importance.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Train your voice  Develop your own style  Increase your knowledge of current affairs  Learn how to think outside the box SKILLS FOR LIFE  Clarity in speech: You will learn how to speak clearly and effectively.  Quick thinking: Radio jockeys think on their feet and come up with solutions quickly.  Confidence: Inhibitions have no place in the world of a radio jockey.  Emotional growth: It will teach you how to manage your emotions, especially in your voice.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Radio jockey • Voice-over artist • Narrator/announcer • Host/compere CLASSES THIS SUMMER Certificate course by Xavier Institute of Communication, Mumbai 22 hours of theoretical and practical learning with RJ Noel Keymer will give you a chance to explore your voice and learn to modulate it.

Dates: 3 May (11 sessions conducted on Saturdays) More information: http://www. xaviercomm.org/certificate-courses/ default.aspx

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Learn the technical terms used in filmmaking  Familiarise yourself with the history of filmmaking  Read about contemporary filmmakers  Increase general knowledge to appreciate references SKILLS FOR LIFE  Sharp mind: Film appreciation requires quick thinking to pick up nuances and make connections.  Objectivity: It teaches you how to play a neutral role when having an experience.  Critiquing: You can learn how to criticise and take criticism without being personally involved.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Film critic • Filmmaker • Film journalist CLASSES THIS SUMMER Film appreciation course by Film and Television Institute of India, Pune This is a full-time course that will require you to live on campus for the course duration. It will give you an understanding of the depth of film appreciation.

Dates: 2 June to 28 June More information: http://www. nfaipune.gov.in/film_appreciation. htm

Call +91 9716033040 and mention you read about the course in Youth Incorporated magazine to get a 15% discount on the Social Media Markeing Workshop organised by Digital Vidya

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Social Media

Social media allows people to be connected instantly in spite of being in different parts of the world. Learning how to use social media well has become the need of the hour.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Learn how to check analytics of different social networks  Perfect writing skills for social networking  Familiarise yourself with all social networking services  A better online presence SKILLS FOR LIFE  Social skills: Although known to reduce interpersonal social skills, social media does usher in communication on a broader scale over the internet.  Writing ability: There is a direct correlation between social media and improved writing skills.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Social media executive • Digital marketing • Copywriting CLASSES THIS SUMMER Social Media Marketing Workshop by Digital Vidya (online) Learn about digital marketing through case studies and hands-on exercises in this 4 session job-oriented online workshop.

Dates: 11, 18, 25 May and 1 June More information: http://www. digitalvidya.com/digital-marketingtrainings/social-media-marketing-course Social Media Crash Course by Learning Catalyst, Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Delhi This rigorous weekend course will teach you the basics of social media networking and how to manage your online relationships.

Dates: Every weekend of May More information: http:// learningcatalyst.in/basic-social-mediaweekend-crash-course-2-days MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 47

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A summer of outdoor

CAPRICORN4049, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

JUSTIN FINCHER, FLICKR

PDEMILLE, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

DAVID CORBY, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

COVER STORY

activities

Many people associate summer with the need to break free from their shell and do something crazy. Some outdoor activities might help you channel your energy in the right direction

Mountaineering

Scaling mountains is a fascinating activity that only the brave undertake.

It can now be within the reach of anyone willing to learn.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Learn how to tie important knots  Figure out exactly how your body reacts under physical stress  Trek long distances to condition your body  Learn how to utilise landscapes for your benefit SKILLS FOR LIFE  Perseverance: Optimism is

Water sports

A sense of thrill overcomes everyone who takes to water without fear. Indulging in water sports this summer may be your key to a positive approach in life.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Perfect different techniques of swimming  Get accustomed to large water bodies  Learn breathing techniques when swimming

one of the key qualities required for mountaineering which builds the ability to face adversities.  Confidence: Challenges naturally faced and overcome during the activity builds belief in oneself.  Teamwork: Since it isn’t possible to climb a mountain alone, the basics of working alongside other people is learnt.  Courage: Climbing a mountain is no easy feat and builds plenty of courage in those who attempt it.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Mountain guide • Tour operator • Professional athlete

 Be as comfortable in water as you are on land

• Merchant navy • Host/ compere

SKILLS FOR LIFE  Dexterity: The challenge posed by operating around water improves the motor skills of your hands and feet.  Fitness: Navigating through water, especially swimming, tones the body physically.  Patience: Training in water requires plenty of practice and it ultimately improves mental endurance levels.

CLASSES THIS SUMMER Indian Institute of Skiing and Mountaineering, Srinagar Basic waterskiing course: A 10-day course in the basics of waterskiing conducted at Dal Lake in Srinagar.

Dates: 26 May to 5 June

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Water sport operator • Lifeguard/coastguard

CLASSES THIS SUMMER Basic Mountaineering Course

by Himalayan Mountaineering Institute, Darjeeling This 28-day course will begin in Darjeeling and move to a base camp in Sikkim and will cover the basics of acclimatisation and search-and-rescue operations.

Dates: 10 May to 8 June More information: http://www.hmidarjeeling.com/courses.html#basic_ mountaineering

Basic parasailing course: A 7-day course teaching the skills required for parasailing, again at Srinagar’s Dal Lake.

Dates: 26 May to 2 June More information: http:// iismgulmarg.com/?page_id=27

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sports

A summer of

Team andsports individual

Working with a team is difficult as well as enlightening, while performing in a singles sport is as much about bettering yourself as it is about beating your opponent.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Improve your levels of physical endurance  Work at getting along with teammates  Perfect your physical and mental conditioning  Learn new skills and techniques for the respective sport SKILLS FOR LIFE  Teamwork: Sports which have teams competing develop a sense of camaraderie.  Hierarchy: Playing alongside a captain or getting instructions from a coach inculcates the understanding of how a hierarchy functions.  Hard work: Training for a sport requires plenty of input to level up to your potential.  Determination: The winning mentality inculcated from sports brings out the best in a person in all fields of life.  Time management: since sports are played against the clock, learning how to manage time comes naturally to sportspersons

Every student enjoys playing a sport or two and summer is the best time to enjoy it. A few coaching classes ought to refine your skills and challenge you to do better

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Professional sportsperson • Sports commentator • Sports manager CLASSES THIS SUMMER Summer cricket camp by Cricket India Academy, Mumbai This is an overall training camp that will focus on all skills required to be a good cricketer. Although a group camp, the training module is customised to the individual needs of the participant.

Dates: 6 May to 24 May; 26 May to 9 June More information: http:// cricketindiaacademy.com/summercricket-camps.aspx

Summer sports camp by The Sports Gurukul, Mumbai Participants can opt for training in one of cricket, basketball, football, table tennis, skating, gymnastics, chess, shooting and more sports.

Dates: 5 May to 24 May More information: http://www. thesportsgurukul.com/summersports-camp-2013 Summer tennis camp by Amod Wakalkar Tennis Academy, Pune It is a camp for beginner and intermediate players that will improve technical abilities and physical skill.

Dates: 1 May to 31 May; 1 June to 31 June More information: http:// amodwakalkars.com

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COVER STORY

A summer of

Personality Building If you often find yourself groping for words during class presentations or you think you lack the confidence needed to hold a conversation with another person, a course in personality development will help bring out the best in you

Personality Development and Public speaking A self-assured person is always a confident one. With confidence comes good public speaking skills, higher employability and the chance to maximise potential and overall development.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Self-improvement  Sharper problem solving skills  Better body language  Improved dressing sense SKILLS FOR LIFE  Confidence: A sense of confidence brings with it a sense of achievement to be able to converse freely and with poise.  Accent: An understandable accent and diction takes a person a long way.  Sociable: A person won’t have to think twice about starting and holding conversations with people.  Body language: A firm hand shake, the right attire, how you sit, eat, walk and your hand gestures

EVAN FORESTER, FLICKR

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Salesmen/women • Master of ceremonies/compere • Jobs in the hospitality industry • VJ, RJ, TV host CLASSES THIS SUMMER Public Speaking and Personality Enhancement by Xavier Institute of Communication, Mumbai Organised by Gemma D’Cunha, this course offers an individual the chance to enhance their public-speaking

confidence levels, inter-personal relationships and leadership qualities.

Dates: 5, 6 and 13, 14 June More information: http://www. xaviercomm.org/certificate-courses/ default.aspx Basic English by The Personality School, Mumbai Gautam Garry Guptaa has 20 years’ experience in personality development and English speaking. Focusing on better spoken English and confidence building, this course is what you need to get people to pay attention to you.

Date: 5 May More information: http://www. thepersonalityschool.com Personality Development by Nimble Foundation, Mumbai Body language, spoken English, public speaking and effective language skills will be some of the focal points of this course.

Dates: 5 May to 16 May More information: http:// nimblefoundation.org/personalitydevelopment.html

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STEPHAN REBERNIK, FLICKR

A summer of

Human and civil rights violations, ill-treatment of animals, and woman and child empowerment are issues that a lot of students feel strongly about.

There is hardly anything better than bringing joy into the life of another person. Choose social service this summer

Volunteering

As a volunteer, a student gains handon experience in dealing with people from the underprivileged sections of society. Those interested can also volunteer at animal shelters – who doesn’t enjoy that?

HOBBY CHECKLIST  Become aware of social issues  Develop empathy for others  Learn to listen, not just hear  Discover the society-politics nexus SKILLS FOR LIFE  Empathy: You will become receptive to the needs of others through helping them.  Gratitude: A person learns to be thankful for what they have.  Satisfaction: The realisation will dawn on you that monetary happiness is not everything there is to life.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Child and women welfare worker • Animal rescue worker • Medical health worker

HAFIZ ISSADEEN, FLICKR

Social Service

CLASSES THIS SUMMER Volunteering at The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology, Madras Those with a love for reptiles and who have no qualms about getting down and dirty, channel your inner Steve Irvin and enrol for a volunteer programme at The Madras Crocodile Bank Trust and Centre for Herpetology. A student can choose from 2, 4 and 5-week programmes.

Dates: All year round More information: http://www. madrascrocodilebank.org/cms/joinus/volunteer Volunteer work at the Animal Angels Foundation, Mumbai Animal Angels Foundation uses trained dogs in order to help people develop and enhance their verbal, cognitive and physical skills. Those who own dogs are welcome to enter their volunteer programme at homes for the aged, schools for the mentally challenged, and even orphanages.

Dates: All year round

More information: http://www. animalangelsfoundation.com/ volunteer-work/cheshire-home.php Volunteer for Child Rights and You (CRY), pan India CRY offers two kinds of volunteer programmes: one that can be undertaken at any of their centres across the country, and the other, online, that can be taken up by those who wish to contribute but cannot travel. Both programmes are run with the aim of making sure that underprivileged kids get what is rightfully theirs.

Dates: All year round More information: http://www.cry. org/what-to-do/volunteer.html MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 51

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COVER STORY

A summer of

mobile wonders

Everyone has a smartphone. You, your mother, the newspaper vendor, auto rickshaw drivers – maybe even your maid. What makes this breed of phones so popular, as you might know, is its highly customisable nature. The smartphone becomes a Swiss knife when apps convert it into a banking tool, a bill paying service, a book reader, a navigator and so much more.

HOBBY CHECKLIST  An overview of Apple, Mac and iOS/Android systems  An understanding of the architecture of the operating systems’ software  A grasp of the fundamentals of UI (user interface) design  Coding, coding and some more coding!

SKILLS FOR LIFE  Appreciation of tech developers: You finally understand why not all software offerings can be free.  Employable IT skills: Everyone needs IT professionals – just look up job listings.

PODKNOX, FLICKR

SHEMP65, FLICKR

Apps are the new leprechauns found at the end of the rainbow with a pot of gold. For a phone aficionado who can never have enough of dressing their smartphone with apps, summer has much in store

 Attention to detail: Debugging code is arguably the toughest part of the job as errors hide between lines and between characters.  Time management: Yes, programmers and developers have deadlines too, and they are often very tight.  Commercial awareness: Developers must always create something new and fresh to beat the competition.

More information: http://www. cerebtec.com/mobile-applicationdevelopment-courses

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES • Professional app developer • Game developer • UI developer • Software engineer

Felight Certified Android Professional and Felight Certified iOS Professional by Felight, Bangalore Felight is a well-known training ground for aspiring computer professionals. Again, while these are crash courses, they are recommended for those with a background in programming and computer education.

Dates: 1 May to 10 June More information: http://www. felight.com/training

CLASSES THIS SUMMER iOS 360o and Android 360o by Cerebtec Academy, Kochi These two programmes will pack in everything you need to know about getting started with app development.

However, it is recommended that one has an IT/computer science background.

Dates: 1 May to 31 May

iOS and Android app development classes by Arizona Infotech, Pune Running for a total duration of 60 hours over several days, these courses will cover everything you need to know about app development.

Dates: Batches start on 5 May, 17 May, 2 June and 14 June.

More information: http://www. arizonainfotech.com

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A summer of

oddities

If none of the conventional hobbies are up your street, don’t worry; we’ve got your back. Here are some activities for the differently inclined lot

such bizarre

WOW so fun

very quirk

much weird course). Plenty of people indulge in the hobby of collecting these bags; some have 6000+ in their collection. Want proof? Visit airsicknessbags.com

It looks like a real animal, it is made from a real animal, but it is very dead.

Taxidermy is the practice of stuffing actual animal skins. All kinds of animals can be resurrected as dummies – birds, fish, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, etc. If you have watched Psycho and

know who exactly has this hobby in the film, but still want to try it, you, sir, have our respect.

Hikaru Dorodango for the earth lover Hikaru Dorodango is a popular Japanese hobby of creating balls of mud and then polishing them to a high degree of sheen. Literally, it is the creation of beauty out of nothing but dirt. The polished balls are largely earthen in colour, but when made out of different soils, the result is an enormous marble-like work of art.

TAYLOR'S DORODANGO

Also known as barf bags, these plastic/ paper bags that occupy airplane seat pockets are traditionally meant for those who suffer from air sickness nausea. For many others, however, they are collectibles (unused, of

Taxidermy for the ardent animal fan

SOMEDRIFTWOOD, FLICKR

ZANTEN.NET, FLICKR

Air sickness bags for the (maybe) artsy type

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COVER STORY

Cryptozoology for the desperate believer

Costume Play is nothing to be ashamed about. So you and your friends are crazy fans of a television series/film/book/cartoon – so much so that you dress up as your favourite characters and re-enact scenes. Big deal. Everyone now does it in all the comics conventions.

Cutlery bending for the wannabe mentalist

FORMATBRAIN, FLICKR

Toy voyaging for the inner child

If you want to see the world but cannot afford it, there is a Plan B at hand – your toys can travel the world. Toy Voyaging is letting your toy play Tintin while you sit at home.

Just hand over your toy to someone travelling and ask them for your to toy go on different adventures in the foreign land. There are hosts around the world who will do this for you.

Visit ToyVoyagers.com to get started.

Nazi memorabilia for the ballsy collector ANDRECHINN, FLICKR

Maybe there really was no spoon in The Matrix, but it is not THAT hard to bend metal cutlery.

With your mind?

Ah, no. That is not possible. With your bare hands? Yes. If the website forkbend. com is to be believed, there are thousands of people who have made bending forks and spoons out of shape their pastimes.

If you want to try it out, the website has instructions on how to do it.

Cryptowhat? This is the study of plants, animals and creatures whose existence is currently unproven.

The creatures on the list of cryptozoologists are the Yeti, Bigfoot, the Loch Ness monster, Chupacabra, phantom cats, Mothman, and many, many more. Well, it’s not really ‘study’ if it is centred on conspiracy theories, is it? But all their ‘research’ makes for good reading.

NIKORETRO, FLICKR

MIKEMOL, FLICKR

Cosplay for the insatiable geek

History tells you Hitler was not a great guy to hang out with.

His regime, though stained forever by its horrific misdeeds, has nevertheless produced some artefacts that several people find aesthetic. Just

ask Lemmy Kilmister, lead vocalist of the band Motörhead. He is a dedicated collector of knives, daggers, swords, guns, armour, flags, even uniforms, from the German military of WWI and WWII. Controversy has a new name.

Mooing for the bovine connoisseur

Fancy yourself as a bit of an expert when it comes to animal calls? You could join hundreds of people in the UK and US in the fine art of mooing.

Imitating a cow is a thing. There are competitions and everything. Just look up Moo-la-palooza on the internet.

Mooing hobbyists are dedicated to the activity, and past winners of mooing contests will tell you they practised for days before clinching the title.

Suing for the drama queen

Being able to file a lawsuit against anyone is a right accorded to all citizens in all democracies.

But some people make a hobby out of it. Jonathan Lee Riches, an American, is in the Guinness Book of World Records for filing the most lawsuits ever. After his entry in the book, he filed a lawsuit against Guinness! He said they had no right to publish his work, his “legal masterpieces”. Here are some of the people/places/occasions he has sued: Plato, Nostradamus, Somali Pirates, Buddhist monks, the Eiffel Tower and Black History Month. Giving him company is Mohammed Tabibar Rahman in Australia, who filed over 50 lawsuit cases in 10 years. He has been so hardcore at suing that the Australian Supreme Court has banned him from taking anyone to court. Considering the snail-like pace of the Indian justice system, this hobby would probably not be very enjoyable here. yi

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JAYANTI GHOSE

LAW IN THE US Q: At what level can I study law in the US? Is there any admission/standardised test?

Manoharan In the US, you can take up law studies only after a bachelor’s degree. You can take up the three-year JD degree for training to practice law in the US and the one-year LLM for lawyers who intend to practice law in their home country. For the JD three-year doctorate degree in American law, you will be required to take the LSAT. However, you need not appear for the LSAT while applying for admission to LLM (Master in Law) programmes.

ANSWER ANSWER

STUDY ABROAD

ANSWER ANSWER

GATE score/rank is usually a basic requirement for entry level openings in public sector undertakings. Private sector companies either recruit directly from campus or by inviting applications through notifications in prominent dailies and their recruitment supplements. Hence, track such publications, as also job portals to identify vacancies that fit your aspirations and academic profile. You may seek also help from recruitment agencies/consultants.

The Central and State Governments recruit through competitive written exam and interview conducted by UPSC, Staff Selection Commission and the relevant State Public Service Commission.

CAREER IN ADVERTISING Q: I have just appeared for the HSC exams and would like to plan for a career in advertising.

What would be the appropriate bachelor’s degree programmes for this purpose?

Aryan Vyas Advertising is about promoting awareness and managing the ‘brand image’ of an organisation company and its products/services. It is an exciting blend of the creative and the commercial. Therefore, roles within the industry range from the creative, as a copywriter or designer, to commercial roles concerned with maintaining client accounts and planning advertising campaigns Creative positions would require an art or design degree or a degree in language or communications, while account management positions will usually be open to graduates of any subject; though mass media or business management or humanities graduates may have a slight edge.

ANSWER ANSWER

NO GATE Q: I am a 4th year student of engineering in electronics and communication. I want to work in the core field without participating in GATE exam. How can I locate companies/organisations which recruit directly, especially in embedded field?

Chetan Vaidya

BARRISTER TRAINING IN THE UK Q: I am in the final year of a 5-year BA LLB, aspiring to be a legal practitioner in India. I want to get barrister training from England. Would such training help me flourish in India? How do I proceed to qualify as a barrister?

Abhiraj T Additional qualifications would enhance your profile and your prospects both nationally and internationally.

However, you will flourish in India based on your capabilities on the job, your efficiency, effectiveness and capacity to build on your experience, knowledge and by keeping abreast of developments in your area(s) of work.

The Bar Standards Board regulates foreign students wishing to become qualified as a barrister of England and Wales. International students seeking to transfer their foreign academic qualifications to the UK should refer to the Bar Standards Board website (https://www. barstandardsboard.org.uk/qualifying-as-a-barrister).

ANSWER ANSWER

STUDY IN INDIA

Jayanti Ghose is a career and education consultant. She holds an honours degree in economics and a degree in education. Her research in career counselling and guidance spans more than 25 years. She pioneered the concept of career counselling and career writing in the print media. She is actively involved in personal and group counselling.

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WISE UP

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2

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- By Niloufer Gandhi

1

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Choose the option that is closest in meaning to the main word and complete the sentence.

1. Geek (geek)

It is imperative for a computer ____ to be a fast learner and keep pace with changing technology. (a) dotard (b) expert (c) loser

2. Flaky (fley-kee)

Although the interior designer was always dressed classy, her taste of furniture was quiet ______. (a) eccentric (b) level-headed (c) introvert

3. Hooligan (hoo-li-guh-n)

The ____ fought furiously with the police officers after he was caught stealing money from the ATM. (a) troublemaker (b) pacifist (c) activist

Erstwhile insults A number of words in English, once considered offensive, are now not only acceptable but quite indispensable to express ourselves. Commonly used words such as fun, bet and kidnap were once labelled impolite.

4. Gyp (jip)

Most taxi drivers often take longer than usual routes and ____ unsuspecting tourists. (a) praise (b) tempt (c) swindle

5. Cavalier (kav-uh-leer)

Answers:

1. B, 2. A, 3. A, 4. C, 5. C

The ____ team leader refused to accept suggestions from his peers and insisted on conducting the presentation all by himself. (a) humble (b) confused (c) arrogant

Word Pyramid

The clues will help you find the answers to complete the word pyramid. Each answer must contain the previous answer. You may arrange the words with a new letter.

Hint: Start from the top 1. Sixth letter of the English alphabet

F

2. Iron in chemistry 3. Mischievous creature with magical powers 4. Small black insect generally found on dogs 5. Sudden burst of fire or anger 6. Writer of fables 7. Easy to break or crumble 8. Lightning that resembles a globe of fire 9. Able to be filtered 11. A muscle that has undergone fibrillation 12. Restore normal contractions of the heart

Answers:

FE, ELF, FLEA, FLARE, FABLER, FRIABLE, FIREBALL, FILTRABLE, FIBRILLATE, FIBRILLATED, DEFIBRILLATE

10. Quivering movement of a muscle

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yi

entertain

Don’t let misconceptions govern your nutritional intake and read about 7 health myths busted...

Page 66

K E E PI N S I D E 

Pg62 Pg64 Pg68

Pg70

TACKLING RELATIONSHIP ABUSE

10 SHORT HORROR STORIES THAT WILL CHILL YOUR BONES

ALONE IN A FOREIGN COUNTRY

SUNGLASSES THAT SUIT YOUR FACE

ADVICE ON HOW TO RECOGNISE WHEN A RELATIONSHIP HAS RUN ITS COURSE AND WHAT TO DO

THE BEST SHORT HORROR STORIES THE INTERNET HAS PRODUCED IN RECENT TIMES

OUR COLUMNIST NISHA JAMVWAL RECOUNTS HER EXPERIENCE WHEN STUDYING ABROAD

THE RIGHT TYPE OF SUNGLASSES TO MATCH THE SHAPE OF YOUR FACE

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ENTERTAINMENT FEATURE

LAND Dirt biking

WHAT IT IS: Dirt biking is an extreme motor sport with many international championships. It can be described simply as biking on a dirt track but is actually quite difficult since it requires excellent biking skills. Proper safety measures must be taken since the sport can be dangerous in the event of crashes. Few places offer the sport in India.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Chennai WHO ORGANISES IT: Chennai Off Road

GOGO VISUAL, FLICKR

ISHTIAQ AHMED, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Summer is here and everyone is looking to break away on a vacation.

Clubbing the need to get away with a desire for an adrenaline rush, Sean Sequeira lists the best places to visit for adventure sport enthusiasts

Phone: +91 9840 530 676 Email: jithuraj161@gmail.com Website: http://www. chennaioffroad.com/index.html

TIME OF YEAR: All year round

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PHOTO COURTESY: BHARAT CHHATRE

Rock climbing

Waterfall rappelling SBARNES, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

WHAT IT IS: Rappelling is an activity which helps rock climbers descend down hills and mountains quickly. Add a waterfall to the equation and it becomes a fun activity that India has been taking to in the last few years. It is conducted in the Indian monsoons when waterfalls flow in all their glory.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Vihi Waterfall, Kasara WHO ORGANISES IT: Trek Mates India

Phone: +91 8655 588 508 Email: trekmates@gmail.com Website: http://www.trekmatesindia.com/ TIME OF YEAR: July to October

Phone: +91 9816 174 164 Email: hecindia2005@yahoo.fr Website: http://www.himalayanextreme-center.com/en/index. php?dir=&page=start&lang=en TIME OF YEAR: March to December

WHAT IT IS: Having originated in the European mountains, skiing has come a long way as a leisure activity for mountainous regions. India does not fall too far behind since Auli is rated among the top ski destinations in the world. An exhilarating variation called heli-skiing involves jumping out of a helicopter and skiing down otherwise inaccessible hills.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Auli, Uttarakhand WHO ORGANISES IT: GMVN

Skiing

Phone: +91 135 274 08 96 Email: gmvn@gmvnl.com Website: http://www.gmvnl.com/newgmvn/ index.aspx TIME OF YEAR: December to March F.GRIFONI, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Mountain biking

TIMUZAPATA, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

WHAT IT IS: Scaling up and down steep rock formations is the prime goal of rock climbing.

The extreme forms of the sport are performed without any safety harnesses. It can be a dangerous activity which is why proper care is taken whenever it is practiced.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Vashist, Uttarakhand WHO ORGANISES IT: Himalayan Extreme Center

WHAT IT IS: One of the most explorative sports, mountain biking requires a sturdy bicycle that is made especially for the sport and a desire to go off-road into the wild countryside. There are few companies in India that organise the sport in group sessions.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Ladakh WHO ORGANISES IT: Yasmin Trek and Tours

Phone: +91 9622 966 292 Email: yasminladakh@gmail.com Website: http://www.yasminladakh. com/default.htm TIME OF YEAR: May to October

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SBITTANTE, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

WATER

ILSE REIJS AND JAN-NOUD HUTTEN, FLICKR

Scuba diving

Kiteboarding

WHAT IT IS: Combining the sports of surfing, wakeboarding and windsurfing gives you the sport of kiteboarding (aka kitesurfing). The sport requires a wakeboard and a kite but takes quite a bit of skill and training to perfect. The coastal areas in India’s southern states are suitable since they have calmer waters and plenty of wind.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Tamil Nadu WHO ORGANISES IT: Quest Expeditions

TIME OF YEAR: October to May

Waterskiing WHAT IT IS: It is a very popular water sport and recreational activity in coastal areas around the world.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Cavelossim, Goa WHO ORGANISES IT: Prince of Sal

Phone: +91 9921 144 420 Email: lester@ princeofsal.com Website: http:// princeofsal.com/ TIME OF YEAR: Throughout the year

White water rafting

WHAT IT IS: White water rafting is about going up against the forces of nature and all its fury.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO:

Brahmaputra River, Arunachal Pradesh WHO ORGANISES IT: Aquaterra Adventures

Phone: +91 11 2921 26 41 Email: vaibhav@aquaterra.in Website: http://www.aquaterra.in/ TIME OF YEAR: November to March

Stand up paddle boarding WHAT IT IS: Give a surfer a paddle and you invent a new sport called stand up paddle boarding WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Mulki, Karnataka WHO ORGANISES IT: Mantra Surf Club

Phone: +91 9880 659 130 Email: gauranataraj@ gmail.com Website: http://surfingindia. net/mantra-surf-club

A.BELLOC, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Phone: +91 22 651 77 381 Email: info@lacadives.com Website: http://lacadives.com/

TIME OF YEAR: Throughout the year

PHOTO COURTESY: AQUATERRA ADVENTURES

WHAT IT IS: Scuba diving requires levels of training before it can be attempted.

You can apply for and attain the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) licensing to be a certified scuba diver. The Lakshadweep islands are an exotic location but have certain government restrictions.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Andaman and Nicobar Islands WHO ORGANISES IT: Lacadives

Phone: +91 8879 995 551 Email: booking@quest-asia.com Website: http://quest-asia.com/

TIME OF YEAR: November to April

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CARLA MACNEIL, FOTOPEDIA

AIR

Bungee jumping

WHAT IT IS: Nothing compares to the thrill of the freefall that is enjoyed in bungee jumping.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Rishikesh WHO ORGANISES IT: Jumping Heights

Phone: +91 9711 401 244 Email: contact@jumpingheights.com Website: http://www.jumpingheights.com/ TIME OF YEAR: October to May

Skydiving

Zip lining

WHAT IT IS: Exhilarating and terrifying are the best words to describe skydiving. Imagine jumping out of an airplane from 10,000 feet above the surface of the earth with nothing but a parachute on your back.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Mysore, Karnataka WHO ORGANISES IT: Skyriders

WHAT IT IS: Set up a cable from a higher point to a lower point and travel along the length of the cable using pulleys and gravity.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Mussoorie WHO ORGANISES IT: The Real Adventure Sports

Phone: +91 9634 945 369 Email: tra.sports@gmail.com Website: http://www.ziplinesindia.com/index.html TIME OF YEAR: Throughout the year

Phone: +91 9958 297 097 Email: contact@ skydivinginindia.com Website: http://www. skydivinginindia.com/ TIME OF YEAR: Throughout the year

Paragliding WHAT IT IS: Paragliding is the closest you can get to flying like a bird.Using the gear, you launch yourself off a cliff and glide using wind to get you to your destination.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Billing WHO ORGANISES IT: Billing Adventures of Himachal

Phone: +91 9418 294 429 Email: billing.valley@ gmail.com Website: http://www. billingvalley.com/

TIME OF YEAR: September to November

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Valley crossing WHAT IT IS: String a cable between two peaks and cross the line. Simple.

WHERE YOU SHOULD GO: Lonavala WHO ORGANISES IT: Exploita Traveltech

Phone: +91 9822 278 133 Email: info@ exploita.com Website: http:// www.exploita. com/ TIME OF YEAR: Throughout the year

4/22/2014 8:34:14 PM

RELATIONSHIP

Abuse

SAN

DER

VAN D

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E L, F

LICK

R

Tackling Relationship

Signs of abuse in a relationship should be spotted sooner rather than later.

Trishann Henriques identifies them and helps dodge the bullet

P

hysical, emotional and mental abuse in a romantic relationship isn’t spoken about, but well, is rampant. Even if it is, the fervent focus remains on female abuse. Today however, abuse in romantic relationships are not limited to women only; men go through it too. The best way to tackle abuse is to spot the signs way before a relationship takes off. Why must anyone be forced to deal with insecure, jealous

and controlling partners? After all, isn’t love supposed to be patient and kind, not jealous, commanding and manipulative?

The sign: You’re mine

They don’t approve of your friends, they don’t like that you spend time with them and sometimes even despise the mention of their names. All they want is you 24x7. Now, this can be

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good, but it goes a bit overboard especially when a couple is at a premature stage in their relationship.

Escape it: Explain to your partner that although you enjoy their company very much, you cannot spend every waking minute with them. A relationship works best when both partners have mutual and separate lives and friends to fall back on every so often.

The sign: Too much, too soon

Talks of moving in together, long vacations, marriage and even babies are sure to scare anyone off if mentioned too soon. Instead of building castles about the probable future, why on concentrate on the present and live in the moment?

Escape it: Expectations from a relationship are a must. It is only after a certain level of compatibility and affinity towards each other that expectations arise. Dating with the hope of a marriage in the future is good for a seasoned relationship and one in which both partners have each other’s consent. But if one partner is uninterested in the prospect of marriage and kids, bringing up too much too soon is a put-off. Discuss what you both want from life, share your future plans and dreams. If there is a future to your relationship, make sure you both are in it together and for the long haul.

The sign: Jealous much?

Plain and simple, your partner cannot dictate what you wear. Of course they can tell you what suits you and what doesn’t, but anything that includes threats and blackmail because of clothes is plain abuse.

Escape it: If they really love you, they’d let you dress the way you like and what you are feel comfortable in.

Remember, the relationship should bring out the best in each other, even in the looks and clothing department.

The sign: I’m watching you

There are two sides to exchanging passwords. It could be that you trust each other and do not find the need to share them or that you have nothing to hide so you disclose them. Cyber stalking would include constant checking of accounts, replying to emails and messages from your account and more importantly, without your knowledge.

Escape it: If you believe that sharing passwords invades your privacy, don’t do it. But if you and your partner already know each other’s, refrain from constant, sly checks. Instead, confront them directly and question them if you need some kind of clarification.

The sign: Humiliation

Humiliation includes anything from putting you down, blackmailing you emotionally, saying profane and demeaning things and even going to the extent of raising their hands when

they don’t have the last word on a certain issue.

Escape it: No one, we mean, no one deserves to be mistreated. As a joke or with malice in mind, never put up with any form of humiliation. If it happens once, brush it off with a warning, but if it ceases to stop, it will be best to sever ties than to anticipate reform in your partner.

The sign: The blame game

As detrimental as the lack of trust is, the blame-game in a relationship means nothing other than damage – a sign of emotional abuse, blaming the other person for something that they haven’t done is wrong.

Escape it: Communicate with your partner before pointing fingers. If the fault is yours, take responsibility, apologise and do not repeat the mistake again.

The sign: Where, why, with whom?

Your partner needs to know where and with who you are, but that’s that.

If they constantly inquire about your location and company even after mentioning it to them, you know that they do not trust you. It could also be bad if they go to the extent of suddenly showing up to check if you were telling the truth.

Escape it: Let your partner know where you are and when you will be back. You can also fill them in on what you are doing and a time you will return. But make it clear that you are not a child to be monitored. yi

CONCHA GARCÍA HERNÁNDEZ, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

A little bit of jealously in a relationship is a sign that your partner is afraid to lose you. However, when little gets to too much, you should know that is a problem. Jealously often harbours feelings of doubt and suspicion. For a healthy, nurturing relationship, there should no room for these feelings to arise.

Escape it: As clichéd as it may seem, trust is the cornerstone in a relationship. Espouse feelings of trust and care instead of doubt the next time you make an inquiry about your partner's whereabouts and how they spent their day.

The sign: No, you cannot wear that

MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 63

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COUNTDOWN

8

CGP GREY, FLICKR

64 Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

BAGOGAMES, FLICKR

9

Yesterday my parents told me I was too old for an imaginary friend and that I had to let her go. They found her body this morning.

- BitterSimplicity, reddit.com

7

Don’t be scared of the monsters, just look for them. Look to your left, to your right, under your bed, behind your dresser, in your closet but never look up, she hates being seen.

- AnarchistWaffles, reddit.com

CAVIN, FLICKR

10

Marcus was alone in his bedroom when he heard footsteps coming up the stairs. He opened the door to find his wheelchair-bound sister staring back at him.

- Laurence, thoughtcatalog.com

64 Countdown.indd 64

I was listening to my wife singing a lullaby to our daughter over the baby monitor when I saw two headlights out the window. Pulling into our driveway was my wife.

- themightyspitz, sploid.gizmodo.com

short horror stories that will chill your bones

IESHRAQ, FLICKR

Last year a challenge was thrown out to Reddit users to come up with twosentence horror stories.

Since then, the internet has spawned some truly terrifying tales in the genre.

Aparna Sundaresan lists the best

6

A girl heard her mom yell her name from downstairs, so she got up and started to head down. As she got to the stairs, her mom pulled her into her room and said, “I heard that, too.”

- Drrd777, reddit.com

4/22/2014 8:49:08 PM

SIMCZUK, FLICKR

2

[DUNCAN], FLICKR

5

My daughter won’t stop crying and screaming in the middle of the night. I visit her grave and ask her to stop, but it doesn’t help.

- skuppy, reddit.com

The doctors told the amputee he might experience a phantom limb from time to time. Nobody prepared him for the moments though, when he felt cold fingers brush across his phantom hand.

- Gagege, reddit.com

My friends [sic] went camping overnight by herself. The next day she looked at her phone and there were pictures of her sleeping.

- Samuel G., buzzfeed.com

CHRISGAMPAT, FLICKR

MAXWELL HAMILTON, FLICKR

64 Countdown.indd 65

QUINN.ANYA, FLICKR

4 3

I walked into my 4 year old daughter’s room with her jumping on the bed. She stopped, looked at me and said, “I really enjoy wearing your daughter.”

- Moojah, thoughtcatalog. com

1

I begin tucking him into bed and he tells me, “Daddy check for monsters under my bed.” I look underneath for his amusement and see him, another him, under the bed, staring back at me quivering and whispering, “Daddy there’s somebody on my bed.”

- justAnotherMuffledVo, reddit.com MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 65

4/22/2014 8:50:23 PM

HEALTH

Hea l t My h t Bus hs ted !

With rumours spreading like wildfire in today’s technologically advanced society, Nimi Jayachandran separates the myths from the facts with respect to our food-related misconceptions

Fact: Eating too many calories (regardless of the source of the calories) makes you gain weight.

Why the misconception: The Atkins diet propagates high protein and low carbohydrates for the purpose of weight loss. Many people have misconstrued this as eating a carbohydrate rich diet will lead to excess weight gain.

Keep in mind: Jean Harvey-Berino, chair of the department of nutrition and food sciences at the University of Vermont, points out that eating too many calories, irrespective of the source, leads to excess weight gain.

While certain foods with high refined carbohydrate content, such as white bread, can raise the risk of developing a heart disease or diabetes, cutting out foods with ‘good’ carbohydrates reduces a number of vital nutrients and fibre required in one’s diet.

MYTH #2: EATING TOO MUCH SUGAR CAUSES DIABETES TOMOMARUSAN, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Fact: Type 1 diabetes is largely caused by genetic factors while Type 2 diabetes is a result of a generally inactive lifestyle and complications of being overweight.

Why the misconception: The misconceptions about diabetes probably result from the fact that high blood sugar results in diabetes. Although reducing sugar intake definitely has health benefits, excess sugar isn’t really a direct cause of diabetes.

Keep in mind: A diet high in calories, from any source, will contribute to weight gain which may indirectly trigger Type 2 diabetes. In addition, the American Diabetes Association recommends that people limit their intake of sweetened beverages as these have been proven to be linked to developing Type 2 Diabetes.

MELANIE M, FLICKR

REBECCA SIEGEL, FLICKR

MYTH #1: CARBOHYDRATES MAKE YOU GAIN WEIGHT

MYTH #3: EATING MANY SMALL MEALS IN A DAY, INSTEAD OF A FEW LARGE ONES, HELPS REDUCE WEIGHT Fact: There is no change in metabolism when taking many small meals, large

enough to contribute to weight loss.

Why the misconception: Our metabolism gears up every time we eat, thus having many smalls a meal throughout is thought to increase our metabolism rate which will in turn reduce weight.

Keep in mind: When applied to some people, eating more often is not the same as eating several smaller meals. In such a case, the person tends to eat more and will put on more weight than they would lose.

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MK2010, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

LASZLO ILYES, FLICKR

MYTH #5: VEGETARIAN DIETS DO NOT CONTAIN ENOUGH PROTEIN

Fact: Half a cup of beans roughly has the same amount of protein as an ounce of meat.

Why the misconception:

Meat products generally tend to have high protein content. This has resulted in the wrong belief that a typical vegetarian meal is always low in protein.

Keep in mind:

A diet should be rich in the essential amino acids, not just proteins. In order to pack all the essential amino acids into one’s diet, it is important to focus on a wide range of protein containing plants. A few good examples are lentils, beans, nuts, seeds and almonds.

MK2010, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

MYTH #4: MIDNIGHT SNACKING MAKES YOU GAIN WEIGHT

Fact: The time a meal is eaten has no relevance to the weight gained from the meal.

Why the misconception:

Midnight snackers tend to choose foods with high calorie content and the amount of calories consumed is directly related to weight gain.

Keep in mind: Dr. John Foreyt, director of the Behavioral Medicine Research Center at Baylor College of Medicine, says “What matters are the total calories you take in, and not the time they are eaten.” Late night eating is linked with indigestion and heart burn, so it is suggested to have earlier meals.

MYTH #6: MICROWAVE RADIATION CREATES DANGEROUS COMPOUNDS IN FOOD Fact: Any change occurring in the food is the result of heat generated within the food and

not due to the microwave itself.

Why the misconception: The term radiation is believed to be energy that is harmful for the human body. While X-rays and gamma rays can result in health problems, the rays in a microwave are too weak to cause any worries.

Keep in mind: Certain plastic containers are not capable of withstanding the heat in a microwave. Utensils which are not microwave friendly may melt due to heat and leak compounds into the foods. Only microwave-safe containers should be used.

ZHAO !, FLICKR

MYTH #7: EATING LESS FAT IS GOOD FOR YOU

Fact: Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are known as ‘good’ fats and are required as part of a healthy diet.

Why the misconception: Fat has become an umbrella term which is thought to be the nutrients that lead to weight gain and health complications. In reality, saturated and trans fat should be avoided.

Keep in mind: Nuts, seeds, fish, avocado, olives are all rich sources of ‘good’ fats. They help produce necessary hormones, rebuild cells, and in providing energy. yi MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 67

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POINT OF VIEW

Alone in a foreign country Nisha JamVwal talks about her experiences while studying abroad and why it is one of the most important decisions of a young adult’s life

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MY YEARS OF EDUCATION ABROAD

If you were to ask me what was the most special, meaningful and exuberant period of my life, I’d say it was my travel and study abroad. The thing is, eventually we are all going to get 'settled’ (whatever that means) into life and responsibilities, and we shall definitely have more concerns and cares. When you content with life, work, bills, properties, materialism, family and responsibilities,

the learning curve is severely incomparable. To build character and compromised. The time to just singlebe ‘a man’ (in a manner of speaking), mindedly learn, grow, experience, it is essential to live, study and work interact, meet world citizens and away from one’s home in a foreign savour myriad cultures, peoples and country. All the mollycoddling and education is now – when you are at the pampering is far away. From a child springboard start of your adult life – you transform magically with all the your late teens, early and late twenties. influences and stimuli into an adult – Life was glorious. I lived in a dorm an individual with responsibilities and to start with and then shifted into direction – of decision and discipline. an apartment with three flatmates, You take with you the learnings, both Sachiko Hattori from Japan, Amy academic as well as the relationship Seidel from Saginaw experiences, of living with in Michigan, and our The time to other cultures. You become dearest friends Lai person who handles just single- asituations Loni Gallagher and and understands mindedly different mindsets Christopher David would and learn, grow, personality types. visit ever so often. Yes, we experience, studied together, partied THE IMPORTANCE together, got sick together interact, (the germs were shared, meet world OF THE SCHOOL choose a school you see), and then we citizens and Always with repute where you'd even did our all-nighters savour myriad meet people who will be during heavy project cultures, successful and who have and study times. Would peoples and basic value systems. These you believe it if I said that Sachiko and I were education is are the investments you competitors? We were now – when are putting into your life. both interior architecture you are at the And these people will stay you for the rest of majors, fighting for all the springboard with your life like family. They same accolades. Ahem, start of your will celebrate the triumphs yes, I did win, and no, I’m adult life and buffer the falls. So not being immodest, just honest.

– your late remember that the quality teens, early of the college you choose is GIVE IT YOUR most important. and late BEST summer I visited twenties. andLast The point I’m making is stayed at Oxford and that if you have a chance, Cambridge. Wow! The and the spirit of adventure, put in the history intertwined with natural hard work, essays and perseverance. beauty is staggering. The entire Study for your SATs, TOEFLs and atmosphere is magical and I’d anyway GMATs and get with the programme choose a study break, summer school of making it your mission in life or professional course to study there. to study at one of your dream Life is a journey of growth and institutions. It will probably be one of metamorphosis for me and if you were the most interesting, interactive and to ask me what is my USP I’d say it’s exciting experiences you'll ever have. the fact that I’m always eager to learn The experience of being away and know. yi from a home where one is probably Read more of Nisha’s point of view mollycoddled and taken much at www.nishajamvwal.blogspot.in, care of, the responsibility of being tweet to her @nishjamvwal and write answerable to oneself and the joy of to her at nishjamwal@gmail.com success or pain of failure when one has been accountable to oneself is MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 69

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70 Fashion.indd 70

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BEAUTY

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Celeb Secrets Actor and model Anjana Sukhani has acted in 17 Bollywood flicks. She has also been in several regional movies and walked the ramp for famous designers

Skin care regime I believe in cleansing, toning and moisturising.

Skin needs internal as well external nourishment.

Magic make up trick I rub ice on my skin before applying makeup.

Primer is a must.

Favourite fragrance I fluctuate between Dior and Chanel perfumes.

Favourite makeup brands I do not have one favourite in particular.

I use a lot of Bobbi Brown and MAC as well as Chanel and Dior.

5 beauty must haves Primer, concealer, mascara, lipstick and tint for cheeks.

A beauty faux pas to avoid Overdoing makeup like loud mouth and loud eyes is a disaster. Natural is the way to go when it comes to makeup.

Fashion advice for young women Follow trends according to the comfort of your body type.

MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 71

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G-SPOT the

Gadgets Gizmos Geeks

Which is the best budget portable speaker?

Portable speakers are the best way to enjoy music on outings or when you’re just hanging out with friends.

Here’s a comparison between three mid-range portable speakers.

JBL MICRO WIRELESS `4000 FEATURES 3.5 mm stereo line as well as Bluetooth connectivity Up to 5-hour battery life Lithium ion rechargeable battery In-built cable storage Connectable to other speakers of the same kind PROS  Very portable  Excellent sound quality CONS  Lower battery life compared to competitors

PHILIPS SOUNDSHOOTER SBT30 `2999 FEATURES 3.5 mm stereo line as well as Bluetooth connectivity Up to 8-hour battery life Built-in microphone Lithium ion rechargeable battery PRO  Eye-catching design  Excellent battery life CONS  No sound control on speaker  Does not handle big bass sound very well

HMDX JAM PLUS `3990 FEATURES 3.5 mm stereo line as well as Bluetooth connectivity Lithium ion battery Up to 6-hour battery life PROS  Attractive design CONS  Distorts at higher volumes

FINAL VERDICT: Even though JBL has a lower battery life and is priced a bit higher than others, it delivers the best sound. The JBL Micro Wireless is our favoured choice in this category.

72 Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

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PS FREE AP

of the

Apps that can help morph your face

MONTH

If you are planning on getting a makeover but are too cautious to experiment, try some apps that will show you what you could expect

ZOMBIEBOOTH Platform: Android, iOS Ever wondered what you would look like as a zombie? This app will give you an idea of exactly how scary you would be if you were one of the undead. You can zombiefy your images or make your friends scary by editing their pictures with this app.

UGLIFY

FACE SWITCH

Platform: Android, iOS The Uglify app makes your pictures, well, ugly! No one ever thinks of putting up an ugly profile picture but you can take the path less tread and use Uglify to create a unique and funny profile picture for yourself and your friends.

Platform: Android, iOS

This app helps you blend any two faces into one. You can morph two faces together and see what their offspring would look like, or give yourself a plastic surgery with the eyes, nose or mouth of a certain celebrity.

MAKE ME BALD Platform:

Android, iOS So many people say they want to go bald but no one actually goes through with it. Make Me Bald lets you experiment with different hairstyles on your image so you will know exactly what you will look like before getting it done.

INSTAFACE Platform:

Android, iOS If you think animals are adorable or wish you had the eyes of a cat, try this app to add the features of an animal to your face.

You could mix and match a few features or merge faces between a person and an animal.

MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 73

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I am new to graphic designing and just want to be able to edit my photos right now. Which easy-to-use, free photo editing softwares should I try out?

PICASA: Picasa is by far the easiest photo editing software available for free today. It’s developed by Google. Not only does it let you edit your photos easily, it is also useful if you are looking for aid in managing your photos on your computer hard drive.

GIMP: It is one of the best free alternatives to Adobe Photoshop. It has an interface that is identical to Photoshop except that it is far more user friendly. You can crop, paint and resize your images with ease.

PHOTOPLUS: This is the best software if

your needs are simple. PhotPlus allows you to whiten teeth, adjust the contrast or brightness, make your skin appear smoother or remove certain objects from your image.

PHOTOFILTRE: When it comes to ease-of-

use, PhotoFilter takes the top prize since it lets you edit your pictures with just one click. It may not be possible to run extensive touch-ups to your images but it fares well enough if you are looking for basic drawing, painting and retouching.

PHOTO SCAPE: This

software is easyto-use and fun.

It lets you edit your images quickly and also has functions that help you create slideshows, make animations, create GIFs, etc.

74 Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

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4/22/2014 9:03:39 PM

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75 subscribe.indd 10

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M OV I E M ATC H M A K E R M OV I E M ATC H M A K E R

BEST OF

M o v i e s

/

T V

/

M u s i c

/

B o o k s

MONSTER MOVIE MADNESS

With the Godzilla film franchise getting a reboot on May 16, the desire to watch the world-famous monster on the big screen again must be satiated with other excellent monster films. Here are our favourites

Films featuring Aaron Taylor-Johnson

He has relatively less experience than his male co-star from Godzilla but does have some convincing performances to his credit: • Kick-Ass • Nowhere Boy • Savages

Films featuring Bryan Cranston

Godzilla (2014)

The film will go back to the origins of the monster and be an homage in part to the original Japanese Godzilla film of 1954.

If you haven’t seen Bryan Cranston on the screen before, here are some TV shows and films to give you an idea of his acting range: • Breaking Bad • Argo • Malcolm in the Middle • Drive

SIMILAR MOVIES Pacific Rim (2013)

Super 8 (2011)

As monsters from another dimension come to take over the world, a few warriors battle against them with the use of huge humanoid machines.

Monsters (2010)

This was the directorial debut of Gareth Edwards who has also directed the 2014 Godzilla film. This film focuses on human relations during a giant monster attack.

As a group of children are making their own film, a disaster in their town is later revealed to be a monster on the loose.

Cloverfield (2008)

A giant monster attacks while a group of New Yorkers are throwing a going-away party.

The entire attack is captured on one of their video cameras.

M OV I E M ATC H M A K E R M OV I E M ATC H M A K E R

iMHO

76 Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

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QUICK FIRE INTERVIEW WITH ANITA KRISHAN The situation in Kashmir is a sensitive political issue. In this respect did you have any apprehensions when writing Tears of Jhelum?

I knew I was writing on a very sensitive subject, yet I had this powerful urge to bring forth inadequately touched issues. Some books have dealt with exodus of Pandits from Kashmir starting 1989, while other talked about suppression of Kashmiri Muslims by the Army. But the fact is, common man has been pulverised and continues to be. I wanted to give them voice irrespective of their religion.

How was the transition from your previous work of pure fiction to writing political fiction in Tears of Jhelum? Did you face any difficulty?

Not at all. Once the idea to write the book emerged strongly, the rest came naturally.

What or who inspires your writing?

All the stories, novels, books I have read since a ten-year-old have combined to fill me with the urge to write my own stories.

Read the entire interview at www.youthincmag.com

John Irving is an American writer of novels and screenplays.

He has won the National Book Award for Fiction as well an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay

HIS THEMES Fictional biographies that mask larger issues such as abortion, sexuality, single parenthood, religion and more RECOMMENDED FOR those who are intrigued by the human condition and not frightened by page extent TRIVIA  Frequently features bears in his books  Often writes stories within stories  Was a wrestler in high school  Wrote the screenplay for his book Cider House Rules THE WORLD ACCORDING TO GARP Garp narrates the story of his life, from being raised by a single mother to becoming a successful writer

S H E L F

Tears of Jhelum by Anita Krishan follows the story of Wali, a rich orchardist living in the Kashmir valley. His life which is unscathed by the terrorism unleashed around him, is uprooted overnight by a ghost from the past, reminding him of the diabolic forces that plague his homeland.

The narrative, an interesting parallel by both the writer and the protagonist, is jarring when it shifts from present to past events. The pages of the book, filled with family anecdotes, though entertaining may get tiresome after a point. The gripping suspense throughout the book culminates with a typical Bollywood masala movie style-escape.

The characters like virtuous daughter Meher, moralistic grandfather Abba Jaan and all-evil terrorist Shakeel, though appealing are one-dimensional. The author also seems to have given interestingly intricate backstories to characters whose roles in the plot are either minimal or somewhat irrelevant.

The language, a cocktail of odd metaphors and dull descriptions of nature, does little for the staggering pace of the book.

Tears of Jhelum lightly touches upon social issues like communalism, male chauvinism and democratic oppression. The treatment of terrorism in the book does not unravel its multi-faceted complexities but manages to sensitise the reader towards the issue.

The book is unable to give a strong picture of the Kashmiri people, their grief, their anger and their remarkable strength as they continue to resist nearly two hundred years of imperialism. Nevertheless, Tears of Jhelum is written with a sincere intent to bring to light the Kashmiri tragedy.

- Payal Mohta

GETTING TO KNOW JOHN IRVING

A PRAYER FOR OWEN MEANY

After Owen Meany accidently kills his best friend’s mother, religion transforms his worldview entirely

R E A D I N G

TROUBLE IN PARADISE: TEARS OF JHELUM

THE CIDER HOUSE RULES

The tale of Homer Wells who assists Dr Wilbur Larch with pregnancies, childbirth and abortions MAY 2014 Youth Incorporated 77

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Y O U T U B E ’ S

C H A N N E L S

THEPIANOGUYS What they do: Perform originals and covers with

nothing but a piano and a cello.

What we love: Their hauntingly beautiful music made with such few instruments.

We recommend: Cello Wars (Star Wars Parody) Lightsaber Duel

MAJESTIC CASUAL What they do: Bring you the coolest music from artists

B E S T

you’ve never heard of.

What we love: Their collection of refreshing, genrebending music.

We recommend: Tom Misch - The Journey

MRSOLIDSNAKE745 What they do: Recreate popular film themes with

obsolete floppy drives.

What we love: Everything! Who knew outdated technology could make music?

We recommend: Ghostbuster’s Theme

THE MUPPETS What they do: Create renditions of classical music in

their own style – with clucking hens and monosyllables.

What we love: The absolute hilarity of their performances.

We recommend: Beaker’s Ballad

MAC LETHAL What they do: Original rap songs that are so fast you

M U S I C

the melodies of pop hits.

What we love: The images of famous people from history singing Lady Gaga, Lilly Allen and Gwen Stefani tunes.

We recommend: The French Revolution (‘Bad Romance’ by Lady Gaga)

wonder if the guy has rubber lips.

What we love: The ingenuity with which each song is written and recorded.

We recommend: Alphabet Insanity

Y O U T U B E ’ S

C H A N N E L S

HISTORYTEACHERS What they do: Package history lessons in songs set to

B E S T

M U S I C

YOUTUBE’S BEST MUSIC CHANNELS

No, we’re not talking about Bruno Mars or Rihanna’s official YouTube channels. These are channels by lesser known musicians that demonstrate how creatively music can be used in this digital age

78 Youth Incorporated MAY 2014

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4/22/2014 9:22:04 PM

FRIENDS Ran from: 1994 to 2004 Plot: The show followed the lives of six

friends, Monica, Rachel, Phoebe, Ross, Joey and Chandler as they lived, laughed and loved in Manhattan.

Finale: The finale was a perfect end to a tenyear long tale. The characters grew, changed and moved on to live their own lives.

Closure lesson: Don’t go back and ruin years’ worth of character development.

Y O U T U B E ’ S

THE OFFICE Ran from: 2005 to 2013 Plot: A mockumentary about the everyday

lives of employees at the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company.

Finale: All the employees come together for Dwight Schrute and Angela Martin’s wedding.

Then follow final interviews and goodbyes. *sniff* Closure lesson: Allow your characters to say goodbye in a way that is true to their personalities.

30 ROCK Ran from: 2006 to 2013 Plot: The life and trying times of Liz

Lemon, the head writer of a sketch comedy series, as she deals with her boss and grapples with the difficult stars of her show.

Finale: Liz’s show TGS comes to an end, but Liz finds a way to keep working in television. Jack quits as CEO to find true happiness, and Tracy finally relieves Kenneth of his duties.

Closure lesson: Letting go should not be followed by backtracking.

S C O O P S T V L A N D

nothing’, it followed the life of Jerry Seinfeld, best friend George Costanza, ex-girlfriend Elaine Benes and crazy neighbour Cosmo Kramer.

Finale: The four leads are put on trial for not helping a person in need. They end up in prison for a year and Jerry performs his standup routine for his prison inmates.

Closure lesson: Don’t take yourself too seriously.

S C O O P S

SEINFELD Ran from: 1989 to 1998 Plot: Famously known as ‘a show about

T V L A N D

C H A N N E L S

After the finalé of How I Met Your Mother left its audience (and us!) deeply disappointed, we couldn’t help but think of other shows that said goodbye so much more elegantly. Warning: spoilers aplenty!

B E S T

M U S I C

SHOWS HIMYM SHOULD TAKE CLOSURE LESSONS FROM

YOUR FAVOURITE SHOWS MIGHT BE AXED as network execs

review them this summer.

Endangered shows include Community, The Mentalist, Hannibal, Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and The Crazy Ones. The best shows are always the first to depart.

NO CHEERLEADER IN HEROES: UNBORN as Hayden

Panettiere who played Claire Bennet in the original Heroes series has not been asked to return. No ‘Save the cheerleader, save the world.’

THE SIMPSONS GO LEGO in an

upcoming episode of the long-running series. The episode will show Homer struggling to choose between living in the idyllic Lego universe and the real world.

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PLACES AND EVENTS FOR THE MONTH

VICINIA, MUMBAI A new entrant in the SoBo dining scene, Vicinia has a happening neighbourhood café vibe that attracts a wide range of people all in the name of scrumptious food. After a shopping spree, a post-work drink or for a relaxed dine-out with friends, Vicinia is the place to be.

CUISINE: European, American FOOD AND DRINK: Cheddar Jalapeno Poppers and the Cranberry and Goat Cheese Crostini are recommended appetizers to begin with. That being said, the Vegetarian Paprika is one of the best dishes on the menu. While all offerings here are popular, the American and European preparations (that can be ordered at most of the city’s restaurants) at Vicinia are prepared very well, enfused with good flavours and come with a rich use of cheese. For non-vegetarians, the Chicken Supreme with Hot Sauce, and the Smoked Salmon and the Beef Bolgonese are two dishes that cannot be missed.

OVERALL: This new restaurant is complete with great food and a pleasing ambience. Boasting of a large maincourse menu, a good selection of desserts and impressive service, it is a place to visit often.

Ground Floor, Chinoy Mansion, Near Gangar Opticians, Kemps Corner, Mumbai - Trishann Henriques

200

`1 n per perso

LAHAM, CHENNAI

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n per perso

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, Laham is the place to be when in Chennai.

CUISINE: Arabian, North Indian FOOD AND DRINK: Translating to meat in Arabic, Laham boasts of a menu that predominately serves non-vegetarian preparations. However, if a vegetarian happens to be stuck among die-hard non-vegetarians, the Paneer Tikka and North Indian roti-sabjee are safe bets. The Laham Special Barbeque Chicken and the Tandoori Platter are both surprisingly delicious and not like the regular Arabic fare usually found. For main course, Mutton Masala or Chicken Masala coupled with varieties of rotis and naans to choose from is scrumptious.

Laham has a totally different section for deserts and refreshments, named TasTea (tasty). Try the Shibuya Toast, which is bread toasted with honey and served with whipped cream and ice-cream. The Litchi Bubble Tea and Coffee Ice-cream are also worth a try.

OVERALL: With TasTea providing a perfect companion to the worthwhile spice laden platter, Laham can be visited for casual evenings out or when you’re too bored to cook.

3, Balfour Road,Kelleys, Kilpauk, Chennai - Nirva Vira

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ASIAN STREET KITCHEN, MUMBAI

A first of its kind, Asian Street Kitchen is a vegan restaurant of Southeast Asian cuisine that demonstrates how enjoyable food can be without meat, seafood and dairy.

CUISINE: Southeast Asian FOOD AND DRINK: The menu is extensive, so making up your mind will be tough. If you begin your meals with a drink, we recommend the spiced Thai cold coffee. The peach ice tea is too syrupy while the green tea sparkler is just fizzy ginger ale. If you begin with starters, go for the Tom Kha soup or spinach, garlic and corn dumplings. The dumplings especially are soft and tender with a kick of garlic. The cottage cheese and broccoli Satay is worth a try too merely for the extra crumbly cottage cheese and a hint of coconut and peanut flavours. The vegetarian Tempura with Wasabi mayonnaise is recommended for those who enjoy deep-fried delights. In the main course, we tried the mild and light Beijing sizzling plate – wok tossed rice and noodles with tofu and garlic butter sauce served with crunchy potatoes. For dessert, the chocolate lava cake should be your obvious choice.

OVERALL: Asian Street Kitchen might put you off with its cramped dining space and strange ambient music, but it has some gems in its menu.

For non-vegetarians, however, this place is a onetime stop.

Dev Prakash Building, Chowpatty, Mumbai - Aparna Sundaresan

EVENTS THIS MONTH DHARAMSALA FILM FESTIVAL

The much talked about Dharamsala Film Festival is back. Entries from filmmakers across the world will be showcased amidst the magnificent scenery of Dharamsala’s hills.

Dharamsala – 13-15 May

000

`1 n per perso

LMFAO (WITH LA FREAK CREW) Redfoo of LMFAO fame will make his Indian debut this month. Party rocking songs and eccentric dance moves are sure to set temperatures soaring.

Gurgaon – 10 May Mumbai – 11 May

INDIA VS. THE WORLD

BY SORABH PANT

After a successful debut last month, Sorabh Pant is back with his comedy special starring Aditi Mittal and Neil Bhoopalam. The stand-up show will be replete with songs, celebrity cameos and sketches.

Mumbai – 3 May and 17 May

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_GRAFFITI

TRENDS OF THE MONTH

EVER TOUGHEST JOB

he rviewed for ‛T d Candidates inte hear d an b’ jo st he world’s toug cruel job description an impossibly -be employer s. from the wouldbut go online an d Soun ds na sty, o of the interviews watch the videtwist in the en d. for the sweet

H A P P Y

E A S T E R

Days before Ea internet explodster, the photograph s ed with Ea ster bunnies. of creepy the nightmares Thanks for , netizen s!

Blunder Years

NOT MY SON!

A blog post th nails th e sick tradition ofat blaming rape victims went vir y son would never rapealpe. M rfectly captures the tragedy of men shaming other womenwo .

As usual, there were weird os who didn’t understand th e sa tire in the post and we traged in the comments serectou ion. You get all kinds.

TOO PRETENTIO US TO BE TRUE

Kanan Gill an d Kalyan Rath ar a couple of guys e just love dismantling from Bangalore who al l th e terrible film s Bollywood ha review, of Mains to of fer. Their latest bestows the titlePrem Ki Diwani Hoon, ‛Most the film . Must Actin g Ever ’ on watch .

UNFORGIVABL E!

We don’t know w on his target au hether Naren dra Modi’s ads worked dience; what w e online world’s take on the T V do know is that the C was more re alistic.

By Lavanya Karthik

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RNI Number: MAHENG/2011/38909 Postal Regd. No: MH/MR/WEST/293/2012-2014 Posted at Mumbai Patrika Channel Sorting Office GPO, Mumbai 400001 on 4th & 5th of every month Date of Publication: 1st of every month

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