By: Sk Pathak
I often wonder that if I had not chosen the education career which I landed up in, which other careers would I have chosen. The question is not about the stream which I ended up with, in fact, it is more about- did I have the alternatives and if I had, did I exercise my options. Frankly, the answer on both counts is – no.
Talking about the alternatives, in my time we could start counting with the first finger of a hand and end with the last one of the same hand. For an average or above-average student Pure Science (medical or non-medical) was the only stream, as if by default. Humanities were for the below-average – a la, also ran – and commerce as a stream was never in the reckoning. After intermediate, most carried on to do post-graduation in science subjects and those who could financially afford and succeed in entrance tests went for engineering or medicine; period. Over ninety percent followed this linear pattern. I was one of the sheep and happily and ignorantly joined the bandwagon. My interests and aptitude were summarily brushed aside without consideration, as mere fanciful hobbies. In a way, I voluntarily decided to forfeit my right to choose an alternative for, I was an above-average student. My interest and natural aptitude for history, geography, and literature gradually dwindled owing to the pressure of science subjects. I could not shirk the hard work after having taken the plunge. However, pastime reading of books, magazines, or other material about the subjects of my liking always brought pleasure and rejuvenation.
The vocational career I eventually adopted ironically had nothing in common with either my education stream or coveted interests. Hard to say that if I had chosen an education stream aligned with my aptitude and then had a job in the related field, I would have accomplished better or worse than what I did. But what I am sure about, without any doubt, is that my work life would have been coated with much more joy and happiness – the two facets that matter the most in life.
I feel so happy to see the education field vast open with immense possibilities today, that a student is spoilt for the plethora of choices. Combining a career with one’s interests and aptitude is the mantra for lasting bliss