AFTER CLASS 10: WHAT STREAMS AND CAREERS TO CHOOSE EXPLAINED HERE

With the class 10 exam results getting published, the next big question in the mind of students and parents will be - "What to do after class X". Choosing an appropriate stream after class 10 plays an important role in setting a solid base for a fulfilling career in future.

Vibha Kagzi, Founder & CEO of ReachIvy.com is a national thought leader on higher education and career counselling. She holds a MBA degree from Harvard Business School and Bachelor of Science from Carnegie Mellon University. In an exclusive interview with Sify.com, Vibha answers questions raised by students related to the career options in the current scenario.

I am confused on which stream to choose after class 10? Suggest me how to choose the right stream.

Students who are passing out of class 10 must understand their aptitude and academic interests. Review what you are comfortable with and passionate about and set your goals from now.

However, before you pursue specialized sectors, you must acquire sound knowledge of the basic concepts that are provided through the traditional streams at the +2 level.

A few pointers to keep in mind while deciding your stream are:

If you want to see yourself in business entrepreneurship, go for commerce.

If you are passionate about journalism, and have a way with words, humanities is your best fit.

Those of you who like academic rigour, challenged by complex math problems, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) subjects would fulfil your learning needs.

At this stage, you must understand that it is important to have a goal but do not set unrealistic goals. If science is not your strong point, do not go for STEM stream for a lucrative career.

Diversify your knowledge by learning about the latest trends in higher education and their career implications.

Go for a summer course to learn industry related skills. For instance, you can brush up your IT skills or learn the basics of data analysis or machine learning.

Opt for internships even if it is not compulsory. Practical knowledge will provide you a thorough understanding of the concepts as well as build your confidence.

Remember, there is no alternative to hard work and focus.

What sectors offers ample job opportunities and career growth in future?

Among the sectors and streams that hold promising career prospects are data science, digital marketing, e-commerce, the finance and technology domain, entrepreneurial studies, business administration, engineering, and medical science.

Today there is a great deal of innovation in the traditional sectors that are spawning new fields of studies and career opportunities.

I want to opt for biology or computer science streams after class 10 but don’t want to get into the traditional medical and engineering fields. What careers are available?

Of late there has been a shift in the mindset of both parents and children. Though Medical and engineering are still considered elite subjects, students from science and technology streams are also diversifying into unique and challenging fields of study.

A few offbeat sectors on the rise but not explored to their full potential as a primary career choice are: Genetic engineering, Pharmacovigilance, Marine & Oceanography, Dance therapy, Application developing, Food/Wine Tasting, Blogging, Graphic Designs, Environmentalism, Ethical Hacking, Image Consultants, Photo Journalism to list a few.

Many countries are closing their doors for immigrants. I am planning to do my education after my Class XII in a foreign country. Are prospects of admissions to foreign universities good in the future?

Though the political decisions of a few countries had initially sparked apprehension in Indian students, that didn’t really impact the determination of those who want to receive world-class education from top-tier schools.

So far, we have not found a drop in the number of applications. Those who had their eyes set on Ivy League and top-tier institutes, diligently worked through to secure admission and were firm in completing their degrees from their chosen universities.

I don't know where my interest lies. How to find it?

If you find interest in a specific field, you’d naturally want to explore, learn and pursue it. Research to know what career options your chosen stream or interest offer.

Do not make your decisions on what is the most profitable or popular career but which line will fit your talent, skills and interests. Here are a few quick steps that will help you find your career interest:

1) Conduct a self-evaluation by analyzing your performance in various subjects.

2) Follow professionals, seniors from your field of interest to know about their academic and career trajectory and endeavours.

3) Enroll in an internship program in your chosen subject/skill area to have an in depth and hands-on understanding of the concepts.

If you feel accounting is for you and maths is your strong suit, then become the treasurer at school club. If you have a passion for creative writing then joins your school magazine and start blogging. Volunteer for project work and field work, participate in competitions and events.

Join clubs or associations that would provide you opportunity to explore and platform your knowledge and skills as well as learn from others.

These activities will allow you to assess your depth, also provide you confidence and motivation.

As a parent, how can I help my child in choosing a right career?

As parents, you need to understand the academic readiness, innate talent and predisposition of your child. You play a crucial role at this stage to help your child settle down for a field that is most suitable for him/her.

Nurture their Interests. Encourage your child to take part in competitions in subjects that they love.. If they play a sport, then sign them up to train with coaches and ask them to join a club or school team. If they are passionate about foreign films, urge them to take online courses on film appreciation or volunteer to organize a local film festival.

Offer your suggestions about the current trend and what you think about his/her potential. Consult teachers to get more perspectives about your child’s career possibilities.

Finally, support and encourage your child’s decision.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

ReachIvy is a premium education and career advisory that helps aspiring students get accepted into top tier educational institutions globally. We have successful admits at MIT, Columbia, Harvard, University of Pennsylvania, London School of Economics, University of Michigan, Oxford, University of Chicago amongst others.

Vibha Kagzi, Founder and CEO, ReachIvy, holds an MBA from Harvard Business School, and a Bachelor of Science from Carnegie Mellon University. She has also pursued courses at the University of California, Berkeley, the London School of Economics and the Indian School of Business.

Our global team of counsellors have also acquired their degrees from premier institutes and are passionate about sharing their experiences with students worldwide.