Choosing the right subject combo in UG course

Q. I have just finished my Class XII from a state board in Humanities stream. I think have interest in a number of different subjects in this stream right from history to psychology to political science. College admissions have started, but I am not sure which subject combination to go for. How do I know which subject will suit me?

Aashima Bhatia, Bhiwani

 A. It is perfectly natural to get confused over the choice of subjects, given that you are about to cross the threshold for the very first time. The subject you choose today will determine the course of your life. So, it is of utmost importance to thoroughly examine all plausible corners and come to a mature and fulfilling decision. While making the decision, keep the following things in mind:

1. Your higher secondary marks for a particular subject should not determine the subject you choose for further studies. Marks are not the parameter which can estimate how tactfully you can carry the weight of the subject on your shoulders. You may get high marks in a subject for various external reasons (e.g. the question may have been too easy, or you may have studied that subject too well for the sake of the exam), but choosing a subject for higher studies should come from your true understanding of yourself; which subject really motivates you to push your way through the horizon of knowledge, which subject you can see yourself rightfully exploring in future.

2. Understand that there’re more options for you to choose from; more viable options, which can lay solid groundwork for your career. If philosophy attracts you more than econimics, do not push back philosophy on the ground that it may not open prominent job opportunities for you in future, because if you’re genuinely interested in something, you will do good due to the very nature of your interest.

3. Choose what you are good at, coupled with what you are passionate about. If you find what the Japanese call ‘Ikigai’ i.e. you find yourself wandering around the intersection of your passion, your vocation, the societal needs of individuals brimming with vocation and your profession. Let yourself be overcome by the confluence of these four aspects. Sometimes we really have to work our way through some subjects (going through it over and over again to comprehend the basics). Yet some subjects can pave their ways at a more flexible pace, making you feel more at ease. You can dive in the core of that subject, willing to learn the aspects which are not even part of your curriculum. That is the subject for you to move forward with, the subject that makes you want to learn.

“Essentials to happiness in this life are something to do, something to love, and something to hope for.” ― Hector Garcia Puigcerver, Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life

Sanjay Arora is Chief Mentor and CEO Maven Career Coaching (+91 98159 03900), https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachsanjayarora/