Some experiences stay with you because of the people you meet and the questions they ask.
I recently had the privilege of speaking with students at the Central Placement Cell Orientation at Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) University, Bhubaneswar, organised by the Institute of Business and Computer Studies (IBCS). These were young people on the verge of their first professional steps, and their energy filled the auditorium.
What stayed with me wasn’t the speaking. It was the listening: the curious questions, the nods of recognition, the honest conversations afterwards. I walked out having learned as much as I shared.
A degree opens the door. Mindset keeps you in the room.
Education gives us a foundation, but a career is built on much more: practical experience, clear communication, adaptability, and the confidence to face challenges head-on. The ability to learn, unlearn, and relearn matters more today than any single qualification.
For students moving from campus to corporate life, understanding what industry truly expects is just as important as the grades on a transcript. The transition brings new responsibilities, but it also brings the chance to discover strengths you didn’t know you had.
Think beyond the first job
Technology and industries are changing faster than ever, and expectations of young professionals are rising with them. My advice to the students was simple: don’t chase only your first job. Build skills that will serve you for decades, such as curiosity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and the willingness to try new ideas.
Why I keep coming back to these conversations
Leadership, to me, isn’t only about building businesses or reaching milestones. It’s about sharing what you’ve learned, creating opportunities for others, and helping people see the potential they already carry.
Every conversation with young minds gives me a fresh perspective. Their ambition reminds me that the future belongs to those who are willing to learn, challenge themselves, and think differently.
My sincere thanks to SOA University and IBCS for the invitation and for creating a platform that connects students with industry voices.
Looking ahead
The professionals and leaders of tomorrow are in classrooms today, building skills and discovering what they want to achieve. With the right guidance and opportunities, they can turn those ambitions into meaningful work.
Building the future isn’t only about creating successful organisations. It’s about inspiring people to create something meaningful themselves.
The future belongs to those who never stop learning, stay open to possibility, and have the courage to act on their ideas.
About the Author
Deepak Kumar Nath — MD & CEO, Threatsys Technologies; Entrepreneur, Cybersecurity Expert, Lead Auditor, TedxSpeaker; CISA, CISSO, CCISO, CPENT, LPT, CIPP, CPTE, CEH, ISO 27001 LA, CHFI, ECSA.
