The answer isn’t to over-plan or lock in a five-year future. It’s to slow down, ask better questions, and build a plan that reflects the student — not the pressure around them.
Here’s what helps:
- Start with strengths. What comes naturally? What gives energy, not just good marks?
- Explore learning preferences. A student who thrives on structure might struggle in an open-ended course — and vice versa.
- Understand what subjects actually involve. The name of the subject isn’t always what it sounds like.
- Build from curiosity, not fear. It’s okay not to know what you want to do. Choose subjects that keep doors open without compromising engagement.
- Don’t outsource the decision — support it. Students don’t need someone to decide for them. They need someone to guide the thinking.
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