Raja Majhi, the topper of GATE 2024 in Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE), has a unique path in mind. While a top rank in this prestigious engineering entrance exam typically opens doors to covered MTech programs and high-paying jobs, Majhi's dream lies elsewhere - in the classroom.
The 29-year-old from West Bengal isn't aiming to leverage his GATE success for a career shift. Instead, he plans to use his MTech degree to enhance his skills and return to his true passion - teaching. Following his graduation from Jadavpur University, Majhi first appeared for GATE in 2016 and secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 7. However, he opted for a seemingly stable job at a public sector undertaking (PSU) like Indian Oil Corporation.
However, the corporate world didn't fulfill Majhi. He yearned to utilize his knowledge and skills in a more meaningful way. Realizing his true calling was in education, he quit his PSU job in December 2021 and pursued a lecturer's position in a West Bengal college. Even with an offer from the esteemed ISRO on the table, Majhi chose the path of teaching, following in the footsteps of his father, a mathematics tutor.
This dedication to education fueled his determination to excel in GATE 2024. His top rank is a testament to his hard work and unwavering passion for teaching. While an MTech degree could open doors to research or lucrative industry opportunities, Majhi's sights are set firmly on his students.
He views the MTech program as a way to refine his knowledge and become an even more effective educator, inspiring the next generation of engineers. Raja Majhi's story is an inspiration for aspiring engineers and educators alike. It demonstrates that success can be found by following your true passion, and that the desire to teach can be just as rewarding as a high-powered career.