Choosing high school subjects is the determining step to the tertiary courses and career fields you will have access to after school. Here are a few things to take into consideration before doing so.
- Think about your career path.
Although it is impossible to have your life fully planned, give some thought to what career you would like to find yourself doing. Research shows that the average person will spend about 90 000 hours at work over a lifetime. That is basically one third of your life that you will spend at work. Therefore, choosing a career that is fulfilling is important.
- Give thought to further education institutions.
Think about where you would like to further your education. Which university, Technikon, college you want to go to. And do some research on the general admission requirements for the qualifications you have an interest in.
- Meet with a career guidance counsellor.
Career guidance can help learners understand their strength and weaknesses and then match that with their skills and interests so they can make the best suitable career choice. If you choose to do psychometric tests, ensure that you don’t just complete an aptitude test. Do a holistic test that includes interest, values and personality assessments alongside an aptitude test. This will allow you to learn more about yourself and assist you to make a well-informed decision on a career path and subject choice.
- Do some job shadowing.
To ensure you have a realistic idea of the career you are considering, speak to professionals in the field or volunteer your services at a few places to get first-hand experience. You can also try to apply for an internship. If you are unsure where to start, try using a website like www.gostudy.net
- Give thought to your resumé.
It is not necessary to do 11 subjects. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Did you know that UCT only looks at the top 6 subjects and WITS only looks at the top 7 subjects. If you have the capacity and would prefer to broaden your scope, then sure, you can do more than your required subjects. However, an extra class in a life skill or something you are interested in, (like music, art, languages, first aid or sport) also looks good on a resumé as it would enhance your skill set.
- Finally, Be realistic with yourself and your grades.
Don’t pick subjects, tertiary studies, or career paths because your friends are choosing it. Also remember that it is rare that you will like all of your subjects. You may find yourself more drawn to some, than others and that is okay. Even in your tertiary studies, there will be some pre-requisites that you are not passionate about. Try to get help with ones you are struggling with. Bear in mind that most degrees only require a 50-60% pass rate, especially in Maths. However, if you are continuously failing a subject, you should consider dropping it.
In conclusion, choose the core subjects that will help you to gain access to the tertiary courses that would lead to your preferred career fields, then choose the remaining subjects you enjoy and do well in. This will help you to improve your aggregate, which is also important in increasing your chances to gain entry into further education. Remember a career takes time to develop. Your subjects and tertiary education help you to build your career. Invest in yourself and get to know yourself better. This will help you step into a field that you will love and find fulfilling.
Article author
Veni Soobramoney – Head of Assessments – Independent Psychometrist
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