My class 12 exams are now over and people around me constantly keep asking what I want to do. Seriously, I never thought about it and if I did, I would have no idea which path to take because I am not a rich kid. I come from a middle-class family. I have to give this a lot of thought – think of a way I can earn some money and pursue my passions. I have to think of the expectations of my parents and my choice has to be within a budget my parents can afford.
I know many people can relate to this – so many of us have the same story. Have you ever given a thought to why so many teenagers go through the same situation? It’s because of our so-called ‘education system’.
We do not have spare time in our school lives to think about what we would like to do. Everyone keeps suggesting do this or do that. Then, they keep asking us about what we want to do. But no one will take the time to help us out. Forget about their time, they don’t even give us time to think.
Then we have the projects and homework! Yes, they are important and students should engage with them but what about skills? Are schools or our education system working on developing the skills of the students? Do they really want students to become the next great leader or entrepreneur? I don’t think so because every science student after their class 12 appears for the JEE. Biology students are appearing for the NEET. In schools, they are not allowing us to think beyond these things.
Now, suppose they gave us the chance to develop our skills. This would help us know about the things we are good at, what we like or dislike. We would know the reality of how things work. Then, we could make our choices based on our skill set. At least we wouldn’t be choosing our careers based on the brand value of a college or course.
This is not just the case with me. This issue is faced by every student – on finishing their class 10, 12 or graduation. Most graduates choose their college due to some outside influence. Those who are able to choose by themselves are damn sure of what to do next.