That moment, all their faces shrunk. The moment I mentioned that I had chosen the unofficial stream for the low-achievers: commerce. Relatives called from far away.
The always reclusive neighbour wanted to have a chat. Mother’s colleagues wanted to talk. Friends were angry. Why? To persuade me to choose science instead of commerce!
I did have a tough time explaining my priorities. I wasn’t going to be one of those who opt for science due to peer pressure rather than for the joy of learning. I was sure that they will regret it.
A year later, and with less than a year to go for our boards, I watch my mates in science drowning in extra large physics guides, early morning tuitions, late night biology revisions and sacrificing their sleep. I give them a pat and say, “Wanted to know why I chose Commerce? This is why?”
“Never force yourself on something you are never interested in,” I continue as I turn the pages of my economics book.
PERATHUSELVI MURUGAN, XII B, Pon Vidyashram
