When admission stress and anticipation kicks in, you must stay calm and carry on says Rama Sreekant
Marks Don’t Matter
There is a lot of pressure on students to score more than their natural capability. Parents tend to attach a lot of importance to marks and to securing a seat in conventional streams. One needs to understand that children evolve based on their natural abilities and not marks. Giving priority to marks lowers their chances of exploring the road less travelled, especially when newer career options are opening up.
‘Listen’ is the Operative Word
Parents need to accept their child’s strengths and weaknesses. Once you have tapped your child’s potential, talent or passion, encourage the child to pursue it. It is essential for parents to understand the child’s needs and to let him lead a happy life. For instance, your child may be a high-ranking student but he/she could be inclined towards music or dance. It is important for parents to listen to what the child wants and to be supportive.
Speak to Career Counsellors
Schools and colleges should conduct workshops and seminars to make parents and children aware of non-conventional careers. Assessing the child’s preferences, skills and interests is an important aspect of career development. Parents must meet career counsellors to understand their child’s needs, what inspires them and what goals they have. Career counsellors can offer guidance to explore options, to strategise in making career decisions and to encourage in taking up experiential opportunities to further develop their skills. This allows parents to identify what would suit them. Or, in some cases where parents are forcing the children to take up a certain path, this exercise might make them more understanding and open-minded.
Do Not Agonize over College Choice
Once you have decided which course you want to study, you need to consider colleges that offer your choice. Do not make the mistake of taking admission in a college that is popular but does not offer the course you want to pursue. It’s essential to enrol yourself in a college that suits your career path, rather than one that is merely a fancy name on your résumé.
Be Organised
Get detailed information about the coursework, facilities and other aspects of the colleges you are applying to. Meet current students and speak to alumni about placements. If needed, keep a college-specific folder, which has all the relevant information. Parents should be actively involved during this stage to keep their child focused.
Get Hands-on Experience
Consider courses that have an internship component. Exposure to the industry that they want to pursue a career in, gives students hands-on experience of the workplace, increases their employability and gives them an opportunity to look beyond the obvious.
Keep an Open Mind
Explore colleges beyond the borders of your hometown. Moving away from the comfort of your home may open up new avenues. Meeting new people, being part of a different culture and interacting with students from other parts of the country, can enrich your education and subsequently your life. If you make the right choice, the distance will be worth it.
(With inputs from Ranjini Krishnaswamy, Director Principal, Billabong High International School, Thane)
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