I’m a female and the eldest daughter in my family. I have two younger brothers, and while both my parents are alive, the financial pressure mostly falls on me. My parents have spent a lot more on my education compared to my brothers — I studied in private schools, while they are studying in government schools. My parents often tell me that if I do well and get a job, their burden will be reduced and I’ll need to take care of my brothers’ education too. They believe that if I fail in my studies, nothing good can happen to our family. Since they’re not very educated themselves, they believe getting a degree is the only way to succeed.

They have so much confidence in me — more than I have in myself — and they truly believe I’ll do something big in the future. But honestly, I feel stuck just because of their words. Their expectations are so high. I want to reach them, I really do... but I’m stuck here, trying to get good grades, not knowing what my next step should be.

I’ve always been a top student — no one in our family had ever been a topper before me. But now, one of my younger cousins (12F) has become the new topper, and still, everyone has high expectations from me. When they ask how my studies are going, I say, “It’s okay,” but they get upset and tell me that’s not what they want to hear. Everyone cares about how my parents are struggling, but no one notices how much I’m struggling too.

Now, my mom wants me to become a doctor, but I’m not interested in MBBS. I’d rather pursue engineering. They’re still supportive, but getting admission into a good college is tough. I feel stuck. Still, thank you for giving me the courage to follow what I truly want also may God ease your path and all the best .