Kolkata: After a decade away from the professional world due to family responsibilities, health challenges, and motherhood, Subhasree Mukherjee has successfully rebuilt her career. The 32-year-old B.Tech graduate from Kolkata recently secured a role with a global marketing and communications company, proving that career breaks do not define a person’s future.
Her journey from self-doubt to professional success has inspired many aspiring professionals who believe it’s too late to restart their careers.
A Decade of Sacrifice Before a Fresh Start
Subhasree graduated in engineering in 2016 with hopes of beginning her professional journey. However, life took an unexpected turn when her father underwent brain surgery, requiring her to put her career aspirations on hold.
Over the following years, she focused on caring for her family while also preparing for competitive government examinations. By the time she turned 30, she had crossed the age limit for several recruitment opportunities she had hoped to pursue.
Looking back, she recalled feeling as though her career had come to an end.
A Comment That Changed Everything
One incident became a turning point in her life.
After learning she was unemployed, a school friend reportedly suggested to her mother that Subhasree could assist with small tasks if any work became available.
The remark deeply affected her and strengthened her determination to build a career that would earn professional respect.
Later, a conversation with a college senior introduced her to the field of digital marketing—a path that would eventually transform her future.
Learning Digital Marketing While Raising a Newborn
By the time she decided to restart her career, Subhasree had experienced several major life events, including marriage, motherhood, and ovarian surgery.
Just 97 days after giving birth, she enrolled in a digital marketing programme and began studying while caring for her newborn.
Balancing parenting with online classes meant many nights stretched until 2 or 3 a.m. Despite moments of frustration, she remained committed to completing the programme.
She credits consistency and determination for helping her overcome the challenges.
Landing a Global Marketing Role
Following months of intensive learning and multiple interviews, Subhasree secured a position as a Programmatic Advertising Trainee with a leading global marketing and communications company.
She is currently undergoing probation with a monthly salary of ₹25,000, with her compensation expected to increase to an annual package of approximately ₹4.5 lakh after confirmation.
The achievement marked the beginning of a new professional chapter after nearly ten years away from the workforce.
An Emotional Moment for the Family
Subhasree recalled receiving her selection email while spending time with her husband.
Although she initially remained calm, the significance of the achievement soon overwhelmed her, and she broke down in tears.
Her husband celebrated the milestone by sharing sweets with colleagues who had once questioned why she wanted to continue studying after becoming a mother.
The most touching moment came when she handed her appointment letter to her father.
Having survived brain surgery, multiple angioplasties, and a stroke, he struggles with speech and memory. Yet, seeing his daughter’s job offer moved him to tears—a moment Subhasree says she will always cherish.
A Message for Professionals Restarting Their Careers
Today, Subhasree hopes her experience encourages others who have taken career breaks because of family responsibilities, health issues, or personal circumstances.
Her story highlights that professional setbacks do not erase talent or potential. With continuous learning, determination, and the right opportunity, rebuilding a career is always possible.
She continues to draw strength from a simple belief:
“The moment you feel like quitting, remember that you are closest to your goal.”
