When it comes to choosing subjects at school, it can seem like both an exciting and daunting time. The freedom to choose your own path is great, but take a wrong turn and you’ll quickly begin to regret it. That’s why it’s worth taking you time, considering your options, and going with your gut.
To help, take a look at our 3 top tips for choosing the right subjects in school.
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Think about your career path
As tempting as it can be to look at the more fun subjects, choosing a class which is completely unrelated to your ideal career path is not always a good idea. Choosing a subject aligned with the field you wish to work in one day is recommended.
Some later stages in education may even require you to have chosen a specific subject at high school level, or at least favour it heavily. If you have a specific career path in mind, it’s always worth spending the extra time to do some research.
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Get a second opinion
It’s easy to think you know what you want, especially in your teens, but a second opinion – either from a parent or teacher – can offer a clearer perspective on things. You can also use them to bounce ideas off and double check you’re making the right choices.
Many schools will have a dedicated career counseling service, though it may only be part-time, which can help with the bigger questions of choosing the right subjects.
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Challenge yourself
If you pick an easy subject or level, you’re only really cheating yourself. If you did really well in Science last year, why not consider an advanced science class? Don’t be put off by how hard it might be – challenge yourself!
It may also be looked at favourably later on in your career, either during your university application or even a job interview.
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Don’t panic if you make the wrong choice!
It happens. To all of us. Every one in a while you’ll make the wrong choice. If this happens to you when choosing your school subjects, there are a few options available to you – you’re not tied to these subjects for the rest of your life of course.
Summer schools offer an easy way to build up subject credits, as well as taking additional classes in a subject better suited to you.
However you decide to choose your subjects, take your time, think it through, and do what’s best for you.
