Helping make informed decision post-Class 10 exams

DIMAPUR — STEP Academy, a premier institute in Dimapur, which specializes in providing employability training programmes tailored to the needs of the region’s youth, offers courses ranging from effective communication to professional etiquette, personality development, critical thinking, creative writing to grammar fundamentals, among others. Worrin Muivah, Founder and CEO of this academy, which has faculty hailing from prestigious institutions worldwide, including Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge and INSEAD, opined that students should pursue courses keeping in mind the things they are passionate about.

In an interview with Eastern Mirror, the founder and CEO of STEP Academy, shares a succinct understanding of what students can do after their Class 10 board exams. Here is an overview:

What should be the deciding factors for students when choosing streams after Class 10?

The following factors can be considered –

1. Interests – Students should reflect on subjects they enjoy studying and excel in, as this can lead to greater engagement and success in the chosen stream. Marks are not necessarily indicators of one’s preferred subjects.
2. Career aspirations – It is essential to have a clear understanding of one’s future goals before selecting a stream of study, as many instances have shown that students may later realize they needed a different academic path to pursue their desired career. For example, a student aspiring to join the military (NDA) inadvertently pursued an arts stream, highlighting the importance of aligning academic choices with career goals.
3. Job market – Students should research current trends in the job market and the demand for professionals in different fields. Opting for a stream that offers promising career prospects and growth opportunities can be advantageous.
4. Parental guidance – Students who have passed class 10 are still too young and immature to decide on their own. It is essential to have good and open communication with your children to understand their needs and wants and guide them accordingly.

There are cases where students choose subjects for intermediate school based on their board exam scores rather than their personal interests. What is your take on this?

I personally believe that adopting such an approach is flawed. For instance, after my 10^th, because of my grades, I was pressured to take science instead of arts which was my forte. Unfortunately, our education system still heavily emphasizes rote memorization, making it relatively easy to achieve good grades regardless of genuine interest or aptitude. Consequently, I struggled in my 11^th and 12^th because of this decision, leading to feelings of inadequacy compared to my peers. I struggled to express myself creatively and felt confined within a narrow academic path. So I would encourage parents not to force their children to take subjects solely based on their scores. However, if a child excels in a subject they enjoy, it can be considered a fortunate coincidence!

How can parents guide their children in choosing a stream instead of imposing certain subjects against their wishes?

Fostering healthy communication between parents and their children is paramount. Parents should actively listen to their children’s thoughts, concerns, and aspirations regarding their academic and career choices, and try to provide understanding and support. It is crucial for parents to adopt a progressive mindset that aligns with the demands of the current age, rather than adhering to traditional norms that pressure children into pursuing subjects solely for competitive exam purposes.

Respecting the autonomy of their children is equally important. While offering guidance and support, parents should refrain from imposing their preferences or expectations. Instead, they should encourage their children to explore their interests and talents freely.

In instances where children struggle to make decisions, parents can seek assistance from professional career counselors.

Could you give insight into the streams available for students after completing Class 10?

The students can choose the following streams/courses after completing Class 10 –

1.     Arts/Humanities – Humanities or Arts stream offers subjects like History, Geography, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology, Economics, Fine Arts, Literature, and Languages.

Ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in fields such as journalism, law, social work, literature, teaching, civil services, anthropology, and humanities-based research.

2.    Science – This stream typically includes subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Computer Science.

Ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in engineering, medicine, research, technology, or any other field related to science and technology.

3.    Commerce – Commerce stream includes subjects such as Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Mathematics, and Informatics Practices.

Suitable for students interested in pursuing careers in fields like accounting, finance, business management, banking, and commerce.

4.    Vocational Training – Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), Polytechnic Institutes, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) programmes

What are your thoughts on the perception that academically strong students should pursue the science stream while others are better suited for commerce and arts?

I don’t agree with the perception that academically strong students should exclusively pursue the science stream while others are better suited for commerce and arts. It is limiting and outdated. I firmly believe that students thrive best when they study subjects they are comfortable with and passionate about, whether it’s science, arts, or commerce. This perception also reinforces stereotypes, suggesting that certain subjects are inherently superior to others, which can lead to undue pressure on students to conform to societal expectations rather than follow their passions. Ultimately, success is not defined by the subjects one chooses but by the passion and dedication one brings to their studies. Throughout history, we have seen individuals excel in various fields — philosophers, scientists, businessmen — who have made significant contributions to society, driven by their passion and commitment to their chosen paths. We are all integral parts of a larger system, and every individual’s unique talents and interests contribute to the collective progress and advancement of society. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the value and importance of all academic streams and empower students to pursue their passions without being constrained by limiting perceptions or stereotypes.