Grade 9th is the time when students are about to embark on the journey of discovering their true selves, finding out what they’re passionate about, and deciding what career path to pursue. This stage of life is a crossroads where one must make an important decision that will shape the rest of their life. It is crucial to start exploring career options at this point as it is the perfect time to build a foundation that will guide students toward their dreams and aspirations.
According to a study conducted by India Today, more than 50% of Indian students are unsure about their career choices. This highlights the need for students to start exploring their career options early on. By exploring various career fields, students can get a sense of what they’re passionate about, and this can help them make informed decision about their future.
Exploring career options at an early age can also help students gain valuable insights into the skills and knowledge required for different professions. A study conducted by the World Economic Forum found that by 2022, 65% of children entering primary school will work in jobs that do not currently exist. This highlights the need for students to explore different career fields to ensure they are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the future.
Grade 9 students can explore more about careers by considering the following five options:
• Watch diverse career videos on platforms like Youtube and Vimeo. This is a great and engaging way for one to enhance their knowledge about careers and different streams available in the world today.
• Talk to elders about career options and what to do
• Attend summer camps. Attending summer camps can help a student to build crucial skills which can impact a student’s academic and professional career path. During summer school, students can choose subjects that align with their interests and aspirations. Many prestigious institutions like Harvard and Oxford, offer summer schools that are insightful and informative for the students.
• Undertake online courses. Online courses on platforms like Coursera and Udemy can offer an easier and more cost-effective alternative to face-to-face learning for students. Nowadays, there are plenty of courses in science, commerce, and humanities, which students can study online.
• Internships with NGOs and startups can help students boost their confidence and get a feel of the work environment. They are a great way for them to build their networks and improve their CV. A number of meaningful internship opportunities are available for students to build a strong foundation for their future career success.
In addition, exploring career options early on can also help students make informed decisions when choosing their subjects in grade 10. Choosing the right subjects in grade 10 is crucial as it can impact a student’s academic and career path. By exploring different career fields, students can choose subjects that align with their interests and aspirations.
Grade 9th is the best time to explore career options. Research studies have shown that students who explore their career options early on are more likely to make informed decisions, have better career outcomes, and develop essential skills. By exploring different career fields, students can gain valuable insights into their passions, interests, and aspirations, and develop the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the future. As Aristotle once said, “Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.” By exploring career options early on, students can find their passion and pursue their dreams with enthusiasm and dedication.
Written by Mr. Vikram Soni- Jitin Chawla Team
