For over 13 years, I’ve been actively involved in the education sector, traveling across Maharashtra, especially during the admission season. One question I heard everywhere — from Kolhapur, Sangli, Satara, Nashik, to Mumbai — is: Which stream should I choose after 10th? The eyes of the students are always filled with hope……and confusion.
Many students opt for the Science stream just because their “topper” friends chose it. But once they step into the classroom, the reality hits hard. Within a year, they start realizing: “This is not for me.” Yet, most students don’t express these feelings openly to their parents. By the time the final exam results come out, poor performance leads to anxiety and, unfortunately, in some cases, depression.
That’s when worried parents come to me for counselling, often stressed and unsure about what to do next. The first thing I say is: “Please bring your child along with you.”
We never begin with a formal session. We simply talk. We listen, we observe, and most importantly — we connect. Because counselling is not just a profession; it’s an art. It’s about understanding not only the student’s academic strengths and weaknesses, but also the financial background and the emotional environment at home. Believe me, these factors directly impact a student’s academic journey.
Personally, I believe that open communication between parents and children is crucial. Discuss with your child, ask them what they truly want to become, and listen carefully — not to reply, but to understand.
For example: Suppose one student likes painting or crafting then immediately parents ask, “Can we go Arts?” Instead of that, we suggest conducting a test and checking their previous track records. Then we connect this interest with the test report and explore related career paths like Fashion Design, Interior Design, Industrial Design, or Architecture fields where creativity meets career stability. This will help you to connect with the perfect stream or dream stream — and trust me, it really helps.
The next important step is to conduct an Aptitude Test (कल चाचणी). This gives an objective mirror of the child’s abilities, natural talents, interests, and strengths — even weaknesses — so we can improve on them. Read the report thoroughly — not just once, but multiple times. Then, meet a Career Counsellor to interpret the report properly. Discuss the findings and align your child’s goals accordingly.
Don’t treat the aptitude test like another exam — it’s a life compass.
If you still have doubts, don’t hesitate to connect for a second round of counselling. We always welcome parents and students together, making sure the conversation happens in a comfortable, non-judgmental space.
(Finding your IKIGAI means aligning what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for)
If a student is good at academics and wants to enter a specific field — we say: don’t rush. Explore it.
Talk to senior students, meet teachers, visit colleges (Labs, Hostel, Mess), and understand:
We usually suggest a Plan A and Plan B — and sometimes even a Plan C. Life isn’t always predictable. Having multiple options keeps students confident and mentally prepared.
One major concern is when students say, “I want to be an IT professional,” but can’t explain why. Many are attracted to the glamor of the job, unaware of the stress, competition, and constant upskilling it demands.
Also consider:
Life is uncertain — COVID taught us that. In times of crisis, job satisfaction becomes the biggest source of strength. Choose a career you love, so even in tough times, you will survive — not just financially, but emotionally.
Science is not the only “good” stream. Commerce and Arts are equally powerful and filled with opportunities — if you know what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.
There are hundreds of career options today. Don’t follow the crowd. Take your time, write your next 8 years plan, and ask yourself: What do I want to become? What is my dream job?
Talk to your parents. Talk to a counsellor. Don’t panic. Don’t rush.
And remember — “All is well”
But only when your decision is based on clarity, confidence, and conscious planning.
“Life is not about finding yourself, it’s about creating yourself.”
— George Bernard Shaw
Best wishes,
Mrs. Chandralekha Jagdale
Connecting with students all over India, we are helping individuals reach their goals and
pursue their dreams.
