Quarantined? Use the time to gauge aptitude and find the right course after Class 12

Picking the right course is not about one’s interest alone. It is a culmination of one’s interest, aptitude and the expected returns associated with that particular course choice.

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Why do you want to study it?

The most important consideration when choosing your course is to ask yourself — what is it that you want to do each day of your adult life? To understand this, work on some of the points below:

— Are you looking for a career enhancement by extending your existing skills or aim to progress in existing work?
— Are you looking for a change in career path completely?

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— Consider prospective careers and employment opportunities.
— Discuss with colleagues or peers on which courses would be relevant for your career.

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Take a reality check

Based on the requirements, narrow down on a list of colleges that you may want to apply to. It is time to match your expectations with the reality of you having a decent shot at those colleges. Some of the basic points to consider for the whole list of courses are:

— What are the prior education qualification qualifiers for the course?
— Minimum SAT, ACT, GMAT, GRE, TOEFL etc. scores needed for the course.
— Learn about the chances of getting scholarships and overall cost of the course.
— Pros and cons of part-time vs full-time course duration.

— Deadline of the application for admission.
— Learn about the visa procedures, if going abroad.
— Know about the placement requirements.
— It is best to talk to the current students or alumni to get an understanding of teaching quality, facilities etc.

Focus on course detail

Every subject/course has many different options, so it is good to know the most specific needs. For example, a lot of masters’ students get the option to complete the degree with or without the ‘thesis.’ Both scenarios have implications on the work load (in college) and employment potential. So, you need to be very careful. The ones with a thesis can help you sustain a career in research and related fields which are not otherwise available. Thus, choose a course wisely.

List of colleges

Make a final list of courses or colleges to apply. It is always better to plan in detail before applying. It is a good idea to apply to at least six colleges. In our experience – the list should consist of two aspirational colleges, three colleges where you have a realistic chance of getting in and one backup college where you would surely get admission.

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We know that applying to colleges is expensive. If you are willing, you can apply to 10 colleges with a split of three aspirational colleges, five realistic and two backups.

Never too late

Even if after admission you realise that it is not your dream course or college, you can always change your mind. One has options of switching, choosing a course at master’s or master’s level entrance exams as well as internships after graduation too.

This is an important decision and in case you are not sure about your choice, discuss with the student counsellor on campus. You may talk to other people in your network. Reach out; people generally try to help. Try and see what other options are there which are more aligned with your needs. Remember, the course needs to make sense for you – keep the excitement alive, and you will succeed.

— The author is co-founder, ACadru