Choosing the Right Subject in Grade 11

Students preparing for Grade 11 enrollment might face confusion about selecting the right stream—Science, Management, or other subjects. This confusion is natural and selecting the right subject in Grade 11 is not always easy. Relatives might suggest one subject, while others advise another, and friends might recommend subjects with high market demand.

Making the Right Decision:

To make a timely and correct decision that guides your future in the right direction, consider your interests, desires, and the grades (GPA) obtained in the Secondary Education Examination (SEE).

Science Stream:

• Difficulty Level: Science is often considered a challenging subject. Although all subjects have their difficulties, science is seen as particularly tough. Therefore, students with lower GPAs usually hesitate to choose science. Education experts suggest that if students are unlikely to achieve good GPAs in Grade 12, it might not be suitable to choose science in Grade 11.
• Subject Change: Some students who initially choose science later switch to other subjects because they find it hard to cope. Starting with science and then realizing it’s not feasible might lead to the necessity of changing subjects midway. Understanding your capabilities early can prevent this issue.
• Effort Required: The curriculum difference between Grade 10 and Grades 11-12 is significant. Scoring an A or A+ in SEE science is easier compared to achieving the same in Grades 11 and 12. Thus, studying science requires more effort than in Grade 10.

Parental Pressure:

• Parental Expectations: Many parents want their children to become doctors or engineers. Even though other fields are also attractive, the allure of medical and engineering fields remains strong. Parents often push their children with GPAs above 3.0 to study science. However, studying science under parental pressure is not advisable. You should study for your own future, not just to fulfill your parents’ wishes. If you find science difficult, communicate openly with your parents and explain your reasons.

Benefits of Studying Science:

• Versatility: Science is considered an evergreen subject. Completing Grades 11 and 12 in science opens doors to higher education in various fields. Students can switch to management, education, law, etc., if they do not wish to continue with medical or engineering after Grade 12. Many students have successfully transitioned to other fields after completing science in Grade 12.
• Higher Education Options: With science in Grades 11 and 12, students can pursue degrees in fields like B.Sc., B.Tech (Food), B.Sc. Computer Science and Information Technology, B.Sc. Technology and Management, Nutrition and Dietetics, Horticulture and Floriculture Management, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Geology, Hydrology and Meteorology, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Statistics, Biotechnology, Human Biology, etc.

Engineering and Medical Studies:

• Engineering: For higher education in engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Computer, Aeronautical, Biomedical, Electrical, Chemical, Communication, Architecture, Geomatics, Hydropower, Climate Change, Transportation Engineering and Management), students must have studied science in Grades 11 and 12.
• Medical Studies: The medical field remains highly attractive but requires significant effort. Nowadays, completing just an MBBS is not enough; an MD is also necessary. Medical studies are expensive, with MBBS costing at least NPR 5 million excluding scholarships. Medical education includes MBBS, BPH, BPT, B.Sc. MLT, B.Sc. MIT, B.Sc. Pathology, B. Pharm, B.Sc. Human Biology, and over 25 postgraduate subjects like MD and MS.

Other Fields:

• Forestry and Agriculture: For higher education in forestry (B.Sc. Forestry, M.Sc. in Natural Resource Management, Watershed Management, Forestry Management) or agriculture (B.Sc. Ag, B.Sc. Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Dairy Technology, M.Sc. in Animal Science), students must have taken science in Grades 11 and 12.
• Pilot Training: The demand for pilots has not decreased. Unlike in the past, now only students with a science background can pursue pilot training. Despite being expensive, this field is attractive but comes with risks and employment challenges.
• Information Technology: The field of information technology has seen a significant increase in demand. For higher education in IT, students must study science in Grades 11 and 12.

Selecting Subjects for Higher Education

Choosing the right subjects for higher education is crucial for shaping your future career. Here are some guidelines to help you make informed decisions:

For Aspiring Doctors and Engineers:

• Mandatory Subjects: Alongside the three compulsory subjects, you must select Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.

For Future Bankers or Business Professionals:

• Recommended Subjects: Consider subjects like Principles of Accounting, Finance, and Economics.

For a Career in Law:

• Suggested Subjects: Opt for subjects such as Constitutional Law and Procedural Law.

For a Career in Education:

• Relevant Subjects: Focus on subjects related to Education and Child Development.

For Humanities:

• Available Subjects: Choose from a wide range of subjects including Psychology, Languages, and Journalism.

Important Considerations:

• Availability of Teachers: Not all schools have teachers for every subject, so you may need to attend a nearby school for certain subjects.
• Avoid Pressure: Make your subject choices based on your interests and career goals, not due to external pressure.

By carefully considering these factors and aligning your choices with your future aspirations, you can set a strong foundation for your higher education and career.

Selecting the right subject is crucial for shaping your future. Carefully consider your interests, abilities, and career goals before making a decision.