Welcome to the first crossroads of your life, ab batao, what do you want to do in life? What subject are you going to choose now? Science ya Commerce, ya fir Arts? Arey, banna kya chahte ho?!

Choosing the correct subjects right after class 10th is the first of many career impacting decisions we make in our lifetime and it can be very decisive in shaping our future. A wrong choice at this step can have irreversible implications on your career.

Perhaps, to expect a Class XIth student to know about his future could be a long shot, because of the widespread lack of knowledge that exists today. Students are not aware of the various career paths and opportunities. One should always be thoroughly researched and aware. Google about the various streams and the subjects, follow Youtube channels, read and talk to people. Make sure your knowledge bank is full of deposits.

Another incorrect way to choose your subjects would be following the crowd, and giving into peer pressure. Parental pressure is also a very negative factor into choosing one’s career. My classmates are going for science, mei bhi karleta hu. Meri family mei sab doctor hain, I’ll go in for medicine too. Avoid giving into this herd mentality, and choose your subjects wisely. Remember, it should always be YOUR career, not someone else’s.

“Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
Very true, but how to know what you love, what can be YOUR career?
Self awareness is very important, you should know your interests and skills. Always know that there is no right or wrong career, every child is different, and we are all potential successes. But before achieving success in the external world, you must know who you are inside, what makes your clock tick, what catches your eye and interests you./p>

Talk to parents, friends and seniors. Have meaningful and informative conversations with the right people, get valuable insights into different streams. Listen to everyone, gather and process the information, and then make well informed decisions. Talk and learn, expand your knowledge about different career paths. The more exposure you get, the more you know. Talking to a professional career counselor can also help you to decide your subjects and know your areas of strength and interests. It will also give you clarity and have a set mindset.

Also, never let your choices be decided by the marks you get. “If I score 85 plus, Science for sure! 60 to 80 would translate to Commerce, otherwise Arts.” Marks do not necessarily define your aptitude and potential, only you can decide that.

Lastly, always know that there is no right career or wrong career, there are no absolute correct or incorrect choices. Everything depends upon your skills and interests, your exposure and research, and being aware of yourself before you can take on the world. Thus making the right decision will ensure you do well in your subjects.
All The Best!