I am a class XI Science student. I am confused. I don’t know what I should be studying once I finish schooling. People around me have suggested ideas, but I am not satisfied with it as it is hard for me to focus on one goal. I get so many suggestions which only end up confusing me. And I don’t feel like facing anybody because all they ask me is what is my plan and if I don’t answer it becomes a case of ignoring them. What do I do?
SEEKING ADVICE
One secret you will probably become privy to when you grow older: most adults have no idea how to talk to teenagers. If they’re suddenly thrown into a conversation with one, they panic and ask the only question that doesn’t require much brainwork: “What are you going to do after school/college?” Instead of answering with “I don’t know” and quickly put on an Invisibility Cloak to escape from their view, say “I don’t know, there are so many options to choose from and I’m still figuring it out! How did you decide what to study when you were in Class 11?”. People will be happy to share their experiences with you and you’ll find that they too were most likely in the same position, undecided about what they wanted to do. Ask them about their current jobs and how their studies helped them get to where they are now. Make a list of the subjects you’re most interested in studying further, and see what jobs are available for people once they graduate from those courses. Then talk to others who have been through those courses and found a job, to understand career growth and level of satisfaction in that field. All of these will bring you a step closer to helping you decide.
