What is the PathWISE study?
PathWISE is an independent academic research study about the experiences of recent technology graduates in India. The study aims to better understand young graduates’ job-search experiences, career goals, skill needs, and early labor-market challenges.
Who is conducting the study?
The study is conducted by Manuela Angelucci (University of Texas at Austin) and Ketki Sheth (University of Tennessee), in collaboration with J-PAL South Asia at IFMR.
Why was I contacted?
You were contacted because you were identified as a promising recent graduate with a background in technology or computer science. In the past year, you may have enrolled in or interacted with an organization that works with young adults in the technology sector. As part of that process, you may have agreed that your contact information could be shared with researchers for academic studies.
Is this a job application?
No. This is not a job application and is not connected to any employer, company, college, or government office. Participation in the study does not affect any current or future job application.
Is participation voluntary?
Yes. Participation is completely voluntary. You may choose not to participate, skip any question, or stop the survey at any time.
What will I be asked to do?
You will be asked to complete a survey about your education, job-search experience, employment, career goals, and related topics. You may also be asked to share job-market materials, such as your CV or a short career pitch, if you are comfortable doing so.
How long will the survey take?
The survey length may vary, but the study team will tell you the expected duration before the survey begins. You can schedule the survey at a time that is convenient for you.
Will I receive anything for participating?
Yes. Participants may earn up to Rs 500 in Amazon vouchers for completing the survey and related study activities. Participants may also receive personalized feedback on their CV and career pitch.
What is “career pitch” feedback?
A career pitch is a short introduction you might use in an interview, networking conversation, or job-search setting to explain your background, skills, and career interests. If you participate, the study may provide feedback to help you improve how you present yourself professionally.
Will my answers be confidential?
Yes. Your responses will be kept confidential and used only for research purposes. Reports and publications from the study will not identify individual participants.
Will my personal information be shared with employers?
No. Your personal information and survey responses will not be shared with employers, companies, colleges, or government departments.
Is this connected to Anudip or another training organization?
Some participants may have been identified through organizations that work with young adults in the technology sector. These organizations may help the research team contact eligible participants, but the study itself is independent academic research.
Is there also a part-time remote job opportunity?
In connection with this research project, the principal investigators may also share information about a separate part-time remote opportunity for a recent computer science graduate or junior developer to support an AI-based project. This opportunity is separate from study participation. Participating in the study does not guarantee consideration or selection for the role.
Do I have to share my CV?
No. You may decline to share your CV or any other job-market materials. However, sharing these materials may allow the study team to provide more useful personalized feedback.
Can I participate if I am currently employed?
Yes. Both employed and unemployed recent graduates may be eligible. The study is interested in a range of job-market experiences.
Can I participate if I am not looking for a job right now?
Yes. The study is interested in your education, work experience, future goals, and career plans, even if you are not currently looking for a job.