How to Choose the Right Stream After Class 10th?

Puzzled over which academic stream to opt for post Class 10^th? Still confused about what to do next? Making a decision is no doubt an arduous task and more so when it is about which academic stream to choose since your whole career depends on it. It is to be noted that the decision you make today is going to determine your future and give direction to your career. The choice of stream, thus, becomes often complex and critical as poor choice can lead to dissatisfaction and negatively impact academic success. It is, therefore, necessary to contemplate on the available choices and make a considered decision. Read further to find out how to choose the right stream after Class 10^th.

Things to keep in mind before choosing the academic stream:

1. What’s your Interest?

Have you ever asked yourself what excites you the most? Which subject actually interests you? It is very important to understand your interests as it is definitely a driving force that can help you smoothly cruise through your academic career. If you are passionate about the choice you have made, you’ll not only enjoy studying it but will also succeed at it.

2) Know your Aptitude

Being interested in a particular subject and having aptitude for the same are two different things. It is quite possible that a subject like Accountancy fascinates you and you are very much interested in pursuing it further. However, you must also keep in mind that perhaps you might not have the required aptitude for the same. In that case it is advisable to choose a stream which caters to both your interest and aptitude.

3) Scope of the subject

Another factor that you should keep in mind before making your choice is the scope. What are the future prospects? What are the potential career opportunities? It is advisable to research well about the stream you are planning to choose and where will it lead you to. Knowing about the future career prospects associated with the choice of your stream is important and should not be ignored.

Ways to find out which academic stream will suit you better:

1. Psychometric Tests

Psychometric tests are standard tests that use scientific methods to measure your mental capabilities, cognitive abilities and behavioural style. Taking such tests can help you determine the right stream after Class 10^th by evaluating your interest, aptitude, personality and skills.

2. Aptitude Tests

A lot of institutions have started conducting Aptitude tests in order to evaluate a student’s aptitude for a particular field of study. You too can take such tests which will not only measure your capabilities but will also help you make the critical decision.

3. Talk to the Professionals

Talking to the professionals is another way to understand which stream to go for. These professionals can be your teachers, career counsellors, seniors or your parents who have been in your shoes and can guide you in the right direction. Talking to them helps as they are well aware of your abilities and also know about various career opportunities offered by each stream. In addition, you can attend career guidance seminars, education fairs etc to explore more about your career choices.

 Factors you should not be influenced by:

1. Herd Mentality

Often students try to follow what their peers or friends are doing. You should stop focussing on them and gain a better insight into your interest and aptitude. What do you want to do? What are you passionate about? This may help you to choose the right stream after Class 10^th.

2. Short term goals

Do have any goals for the future? If yes then don’t choose a stream just because it fulfils your short term goals. It is important to note that whatever stream you choose, it is going to impact your future in a big way.

3. People’s expectations

It does not matter what people will think of your choice. Do not choose something just because you need everyone to think good of you. Think about yourself and what will actually help you reach your future goals and succeed in life.

4. Role of parents

Lastly, parents also have an important role to play in forming a student’s career. Parents should help in the exploration of the right career option for their children. They can help their child to choose the right stream after Class 10^th. However, it is also important that they do not impose their decision while choosing the stream and rather should encourage their kids to follow their own dream. Providing positive parenting will help children to grow in an area of their interest and abilities.