What Next After SEE Nepal?

The Secondary Education Examination (SEE) marks a significant moment in a student’s life in Nepal. SEE Nepal is the conclusion of one significant chapter and the beginning of another. As students transition from secondary school to higher secondary education, the decisions they make now will shape their future paths. This article aims to guide students through this crucial period, offering insights and advice on what to expect to help you make informed decisions.

Embracing independence and responsibility

Completing SEE is more than just finishing exams; it’s a transition from a structured school environment to a phase where independence and self-responsibility become crucial. The period of being spoon-fed by teachers and parents is almost over. Now, it’s up to you to take control of your own future. This newfound freedom brings opportunities and challenges. You must learn to set your own boundaries, make your own rules, and take bold steps to achieve your dreams.

Decision-making: Choosing the right path

One of the most significant challenges after SEE is deciding which college to attend and which faculty to choose. This decision is often influenced by family expectations, societal pressures, and peer influence. However, it is essential to remember that this decision should rather be based on the your own interests, strengths, and long-term goals. This should not be influenced by what your friends choose as faculty/college nor what family or society expects of you.

Factors to consider:

1. Personal interests and strengths: Choose a field that genuinely interests you and aligns with your strengths. Passion and dedication in a subject lead to better performance and satisfaction versus something that is forced.
   
   For example, if you enjoy disassembling and reassembling gadgets. This curiosity and strength in understanding mechanisms – you might do better choosing engineering after SEE. Your passion for electronics will guide you to excel in your studies and later secure a degree in electronics engineering. You can apply the same thought process for other such stream.
2. Career goals: Consider the long-term career prospects of the courses you are interested in. Research various professions and understand the educational requirements and job market.
   
   For example, if you aim to be a doctor – review the educational path and job market for medical professionals in Nepal and abroad. Understanding the long-term career prospects, you can then chose Science with a focus on biology, setting yourself on a clear path towards achieving your goal.
3. College reputation and facilities: Research colleges for their reputation, faculty, facilities, and support systems. Attend college fairs, visit colleges, and talk to current students and alumni to gather information.
4. Financial considerations: Evaluate the cost of education and available scholarships or financial aid. Choose a college that offers good value for money without compromising on quality.
   
   Let’s take a hypothetical case here: Ram’s family faced financial limitations. He evaluated the cost of education at various colleges and explored scholarship options. He chose a reputable college that offered him a scholarship, ensuring he received quality education without putting undue financial pressure on his family.

Overcoming pressure and expectations

Family and societal expectations can sometimes overshadow personal aspirations. It’s crucial to have open discussions with your family about your interests and career goals. Explain why you want to pursue a particular field and how it aligns with your future plans. Remember, the ultimate goal is your happiness and success. Here’s how you can navigate through the phase:

1. Open communication: Discuss freely and openly about your interests and aspirations with your family. Do not argue but rather present the rational, facts and emotions behind your choice.

2. Seek support: This does not have to be a career counselors or mentors – but you can find within your family circle who is aware of the field you’re looking at – who can provide an unbiased advice and help mediate discussions with your family as well. The closeness that already exists helps keep a clear balance while building trust on the words said.
3. Balance expectations: Sometimes, a compromise can be found that satisfies both personal interests and family expectations.
   
   As an example to it, I would like to present my own time past SLC (it was not known as SEE as is now) when I wanted to take Management for my high school. However, family and even college management simply based on the grades alone wanted me to take Science with focus on Biology. I was also into computers/IT at that time and some degrees did require a focus on Science. But I was clear I do not want to go into medical science and as such I did not wanted to go the route of Biology. This was when I reached a middle ground with the choice of Science with focus on Physics instead. This meant the college management were convinced and so were my family. This also meant, that I kept my window of courses available in Computer open to the fullest which might not had been the case if I had gone with my initial selection. So, make your choice based on your career aspiration and not how yourself, your family or society sees the career potential.

Exploring different streams and opportunities

After SEE, students typically choose between Science, Management, Humanities, Education, and Law. Each stream offers diverse opportunities and career paths:

1. Science: Ideal for those interested in engineering, medicine, IT, and research. It opens doors to technical and scientific careers.
2. Management: Suitable for those aiming for careers in business, finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship. It provides a strong foundation in commerce and management principles.
3. Humanities: Perfect for students interested in arts, literature, history, sociology, and psychology. It offers careers in education, public service, journalism, and more.
4. Education: Focuses on teaching and academic careers, preparing students to become educators and academic professionals. However, this as of recent times has changed and students from any other stream can go these career paths.
5. Law: Perfect for students who are clear on their vision that they seek to pursue a career in law.

Finding the right path is critical

Let’s Consider a story of Binod, fascinated by technology, he chose Computer Science despite societal expectations to pursue medical science. His dedication led him to develop innovative software solutions and secure a lucrative position at a tech company after his graduation.

On the other hand, Hari, who shared similar societal expectations, felt pressured by his family to pursue a career in medical science. Despite his lack of interest, Hari followed the path laid out for him. As a result, he found himself struggling with his studies and lacking the motivation to excel. The demanding nature of the medical field, combined with his disinterest, led to increased stress and dissatisfaction. Hari is still struggling to complete his medical degree. Hari’s experience highlights the importance of following one’s passion and interests when making career decisions.

Let’s review another case:

My own brother pursued MBBS and did really enjoyed it – completing it all without a hitch. Despite the pressure, he was having fun – this was all thanks to him developing that sense of interest and fascination towards the field. However, if I was in his place – I might be tearing apart my hair as I did not simply had any interest in the field. So, it all comes down to your personal interest that makes your journey ahead one filled with fun or frustrations. Choose wisely based on your actual interests far from societal influence.

Building a support system

Navigating this transitional phase is easier with a strong support system. Seek guidance from teachers, friends and families, and mentors. Do consider all things that you receive as feedback but reason that on your part and only accept ones that you feel are right fit for yourself. At this stage, you need to be able to filter them and make judgement. Join student groups and clubs to meet like-minded peers and gain different perspectives.

Future implications and lifelong learning

The decisions made after SEE are foundational, but they are not the final determinant of your future. Be open to learning and adapting as you progress. The skills and knowledge you acquire will evolve, and opportunities may arise that you hadn’t considered. The decisions made after SEE are foundational but not definitive:

1. Be open to change: As you progress, new opportunities and interests may arise. Be adaptable and willing to explore new paths.
   
   For example, you might be starting your career for engineering but discovered a passion for entrepreneurship. You can take additional courses or just swing it with other like minded people. And, eventually started your own company.
2. Continuous learning: The skills and knowledge acquired in college are just the beginning. Commit to lifelong learning to stay relevant and advance in your career.
   
   For example, after completing your medical degree, you might want to attend workshops and seminars to stay updated with the latest advancements in medicine. Failing to do so might mean, we’re simply left behind and the degree we hold alone does not mean a lot.
3. Networking: Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
   
   For example, your can actively participate in tech conferences and hackathons, which will help you expand network with industry leaders and even secure job offers or other collaboration opportunities.

SEE is a stepping stone to a future filled with possibilities. It does open doors to numerous possibilities. It is a time to embrace independence, make informed decisions, and pursue your passions. By focusing on your interests, strengths, and long-term goals, you can navigate this transition successfully and set the stage for a fulfilling and prosperous career. At this stage, do take suggestions and feedback from all but do note you will be the one responsible to make decisions. After all, whatever happens later on, your praise or blame on anyone else will not change the fate. Think, think, think…before you act.

First published 10 years earlier in 2014 in TyroCity.com titled, "What after SLC?" - this article is an extension to it. Find the initial article here.