Boost Your Career After 10th Boards: Start Planning for Class 11 & 12 Now

Congratulations on almost wrapping up your Class 10 boards! This is an exciting time, but it can also be confusing when planning for Class 11 and 12. Having the right guidance and making informed decisions is important.
I am Aswini Bajaj, having completed my graduation in commerce and qualified CA, CS, CFA, FRM, CAIA, CIPM, CFP, RV, CCRA, CIIB, CIRA, & AIM. Teaching finance to 1000s of students globally. I have taught at 130+ colleges, including 30+ IITs and IIMs. From boardrooms to classrooms, I’ve done  corporate trainings from Startups to MNCs, including one for IAS officers, and consulted Startups to Nifty50 companies, along with a distinguished International Book Record!
Make sure to go through the following points as you move to your “Higher Secondary Education:”

Choosing Your Path: Busting the Myths!

● Science vs. Commerce: Science students can transition to commerce after Class 12, but the reverse is not possible. The notion and pressure to pick science just because it’s seen as “better” and often pushed by teachers that only “good” students take up science is incorrect. Every field offers opportunities based on individual interests, and you can excel in any space you enjoy and want to pursue further.
● Consider skill alignment when choosing an academic stream. Rather than just academic performance or societal expectations, assess how your skills and interests match the demands of each stream. For example, science emphasizes analytical thinking and problemsolving, while commerce focuses on financial literacy and communication skills. Identify your strengths and interests to make an informed decision about stream selection.

The Importance of Math in Class 11 & 12:
● Don’t Drop Math! Regardless of proficiency, do not drop mathematics in Classes 11 and 12. Many colleges will not accept it, and entrance exams (like CAT, NEET, etc.) require mathematics; maintaining a basic understanding is crucial for future academic pursuits.
What one can do is even if you are scared and fear that you will miss out on good marks, aim to gain basic knowledge and remember that you have options like “best of four” or “best of five” for college applications. So, the parents and students have to be comfortable getting a 50, 60, or 70 per se, which is not great, but studying the subject and understanding is more important in the long term.
● Application of Statistics and Probability: Understanding statistics and probability is crucial for emerging career fields like marketing, finance, or HR. These concepts are fundamental for data analysis and critical thinking, essential skills across professional domains.

Developing Skills and Building Network:
● Explore Career Interests: Take the time to explore different career paths and industries that align with your interests and strengths. Consider shadowing someone in a job role you’re curious about or participating in career exploration programs or workshops. By gaining firsthand exposure to various career options, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions about your future academic and professional pursuits.

● Utilize Online Networking Platforms: In addition to building networks through school and extracurricular activities, leverage online networking platforms to expand your connections.
Use networking platforms like LinkedIn to expand your professional connections. Create a profile and engage with industry professionals, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions. For example, join groups such as “The Finance Professionals Forum” for finance or “Tech Innovators” for technology to discuss industry trends and career opportunities.
The Impact of Extracurricular Activities in Class 11 & 12:
● Participating in extracurricular activities is vital for developing essential skills like leadership and teamwork, valued by colleges and employers. They offer opportunities beyond academics, fostering personal growth and potential career paths. Activities also build a sense of community, creating lasting friendships and memories.
Consider forming societies for debates, management, entrepreneurship, and other extracurricular activities, and hosting inter- and intra-school events. For example, Debate clubs improve communication and critical thinking, sports teams foster teamwork and leadership, community service projects develop empathy and organizational skills, and cultural clubs nurture creativity and collaboration. Overall, extracurricular involvement enriches the high school experience and sets the stage for future success.

Exploring Your Career Options Post Class 12:
● Stay Informed! Stay updated on various career paths and options after Class 12, like keeping your accounts strong, reading value-adding books like “Atomic Habits” by James Clear, and watching the right content like the movie “The Social Dilemma” on Netflix. Talk to people with expertise and experience to gain insights and seek assistance and guidance to manage initiatives effectively in different professions. Do not listen to anybody and everybody
around.
● Examinations Post Class 12: Consider examinations like SAT for studying abroad, CLAT for law, etc., depending on the field you wish to pursue. These exams open doors to various opportunities and help in the selection process for higher education institutions. Research and identify the entrance exams relevant to your desired field of study and prepare accordingly to maximise your chances of admission.
● Further Opportunities: Explore emerging fields like data science, AI, and sustainability alongside traditional career paths. Stay updated on industry trends and practice new skills online to adapt to changes in the job market and enhance employability. These additional skills complement existing knowledge, providing a more comprehensive approach to career development.

Check out the Career Seminar Playlist on YouTube for better insights on your career ahead!
Embark on an incredible journey backed with the right knowledge and guidance from a trusted mentor.

Career Seminar Playlist: