Where Will You Study Next?
The next hurdle after exams for students and their parents/guardians is the process of finding the right institute, and the challenges associated with it. One should remember that the decisions taken now will determine one’s future. Every year thousands of students pass their HSLC and HSSLC in Nagaland. Out of these thousands, a few hundreds decide the further course of their higher education, depending on their goals and aims. The rest just go with the flow of things which are subject to the marks scored, convenience of transport, peer pressure, etc. So, how does one look out for the right Institute, course or subject?
From the trends observed, I would like to highlight some points that I believe need to be addressed. Let me categorise the admission seekers into five groups for better understanding.
- Students who depend on the marks secured: A significant number of students belong to this category. At the class 11 level most of the students opt for a stream (Arts, Commerce or Science) depending on the marks scored in class 10 exam. This trend is followed in the undergraduate level as well. For instance, if a student secured the highest marks in English, this subject automatically becomes the first choice for honours, regardless of whether the student is passionate about the subject. Very often, in these cases, a student either drops out in the 1st semester or drags on through the other semesters by performing poorly. A student should opt for a subject or stream that interests them. Decisions should not be influenced by the subject that has a few extra marks. While selecting the stream or course one should always keep in mind one’s interest and capacity. A student may have distinction in Science but may be interested in Arts subjects. A student may take up Arts but maybe good in Science or Commerce or vice versa.
- Students who are influenced by peer pressure: They choose an Institute or stream because of their friends. These group of students should remember that an Institute may not be conducive to them though it is for their friends. Choosing the right Institute matters: an Institute that can provide your specific needs. I have encountered students who were dropped from good institutes due to poor performance but had secured more than 60% after changing the Institute.
- Students who fall under parental pressure: Parental pressure can be immense, thus, parents need to be careful while taking decisions for the child. Parents usually take decisions based either on the reputation of the institute, the convenience of transport and distance or living expenses. While taking this important decision parents should always take into account the capacity and consent of the child or it may affect the development and performance of the child. The decisions should align with the goals and aims of the child. The child also needs to understand the parent’s point of view.
- Students who seek admission in a certain School or College because they did not get admission elsewhere: For these group of students, if they are hardworking, it may work out well with them. In the past, there have been students who had very low percentage in HSLC or HSSLC but have done exceptionally well. This may be because they join with low expectations, but the institute exceeded their expectations which motivated them to do well.
- Students for whom the School/College is their first choice: Normally, these group of students are well informed and have knowledge about the Institute. They have researched well before seeking admission. They know what they want and where they will get it. They adjust easily and are happy to be a part of the institute. Their goals are set and they are ready to fulfill their dreams. This, I should say, are the ideal admission seekers.
The process of finding the right Institute and choosing the right stream is not easy. Many individuals cannot attain their full potential or explore possibilities because they made the wrong choice. Goals and aims can be established along the way if an individual takes the right course. Admission counseling is essential as it provides an overview of the Institute, courses offered and criteria for admission. It may also open new avenues and opportunities and provide information on scholarships. While seeking admission, some other important points need to be kept in mind. The Institute should be a recognised Institute. It should be affiliated to a governing body and accredited. There are several institutes to cater to the needs of different types of students. All it takes to find the right one is to do some research and consult with experts in the field.
Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC Accredited UGC recognised Commerce and Arts College. The editors are Dr Hewasa Lorin, Tatongkala Pongen, Seyiesilie Vupru, Vikono Krose and Kvulo Lorin. Portrait photographer: Rhilo Mero. For feedback or comments please email:dot@tetsocollege.org.
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