Dr Vaini Gupta
“It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped” (Tony Robbins).
A common happenstance in the group of students clearing their High school exam (10th) is that on one side they get relief from their toiling nights for clearing their board exams and on the other side they are in a quandary of subject choice in their next level of school education. This uncertainty is the most stressful condition for the students as this is the time when they are shifting from Generalised to Specialised subjects.
As we progress through life we find that very few people are quiet sure about what they want to be in their life while most dwindle between their likings and their wants. And hence, decision making particularly on part of the course choice of student becomes very vital. Choosing a wrong subject may not only narrow a student’s vision for a perfect future but may also close the doors for the sound mental and physical development. So, here I am enlisting few points that must be kept in mind while making subject choices:
Ones which were loved since early days: Go for the subjects which were liked since childhood. With time we all develop a greater inclination towards some subjects than others. We love to deal with that , learn or solve the equations of that particular subject right from our childhood. Hence, first shortlisting is done here.
Your skill is your strength: We all possess some special talent for some particular subject and possess more skill and thus we must opt for that subject as it will strengthen our hold on it and make us more confident. For eg. some children love calculations, others like some creative work and some others are skilful orators. Students must think of their future goals and avoid any confusion while opting for the choice of subject in which they have well versed skill.
Grades: Grades obtained in previous exams serve as benchmark for choosing a subject as grades reflect our dedication to a particular subject and thus higher the grades in that subject, greater should be the selection chance.
Keep an open mind: When choosing a subject, keep this in mind that you are choosing your future destiny. The subject chosen must help you discover new interests, advance your strengths and prepare you for a bright future.
Be social: Students must consult their teachers, seniors and parents during the dilemma of subject selection. Teachers are well aware of the strengths, weaknesses and interests of their students and hence can give valuable insights regarding subject choice. Subject Seniors have already tasted the subject and can give their experience and knowledge regarding the subject content and its nature. Parents are well versed in their child’s daily routines related to studies and this they can also suggest their views in subject selection.
Peers and pressure: Remember students “Dosti pakki par subject choice apna apna”. Sometimes students are drained by the choices of their friends rather than their own choices. They want to maintain their friend groups even after their high school and hence choice that subject which their friend selects. Further, sometimes parents or relatives put undue pressures on their children for some particular stream as they themselves are passionate about that subject stream. In such case, students must understand that their parents are following these social stereotypes related to subject choices as they are not able to keep up with this modern changing world and different opportunities that lie in the outside world. So, they must not lose their disposition and very calmly and confidently convince their parents with their chosen career and goals and impress them with some actual facts, figures, success stories associated with your subject choice.
Thus, in conclusion, I would say that students must consider all the areas of interest and their strengths before making subject choice. The choices they make will have a long term effect in the availability of future opportunities and careers. If the foundation of their career is strong, clear and determined then no wind or gale can deviate them from reaching the heights of their career.
The author is (Lecturer Zoology)
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