Question: I am an engineering student. I want to excel in this field. I am impressed by exhortations of Swami vivekananda. He says that youth of this country must do something to improve the conditions of the downtrodden and poor people. How can I serve the same purpose ? I do not think that continuing in my profession will in any way improve the conditions of the downtrodden. I think about it. I can’t concentrate. Hence I am not able to perform well in my academics. Please advise. ***** ******, ****.
Answer: My Dear ****** ******, I am happy to know your interest in listening to the words of Swami Vivekananda. At the outset give your whole mind to the studies, so that you will be able to do justice. Excelling is not very difficult. As the proverb goes – “A genius is 90% perspiration & 10% inspiration.” If you can concentrate fully in your studies, you will be definitely able to do well. You will have plenty of time & opportunity to serve the poor & downtrodden once you start earning money.