09 Apr 2019

Up till now, you’ve been forced to do subjects that you have zero interest in. But now you’ve finally got the chance to pick subjects that matter to you (or at least cut the ones you hate, cya later Maths).

Subject selection signals the beginning of your final years of high school–you’re finally able to see the finish line of a long, hard academic road. But it can be tough navigating through all your options and the pressure from your parents to pick subjects that you're going to study for your final exams.

Before you take the plunge and pick your subjects, consider these tips. 

 

DO: Pick what you want to do, not because of scaling

The most important piece of advice I can give about subject selection is not to pick a subject because you think it scales well. Scaling will be a big topic of discussion with everyone round about now. Often, you'll be told the 'harder' the subject, the better it scales. But there's a tonne of misconceptions surrounding scaling. It's pretty bloody confusing so you might want to check out what we've said about it in the past here and here. 

Basically, the gist is that scaling is not going to save you if you're absolutely flunking a subject and regardless of how a class scales, you want to be doing well in it. The best way to achieve this? Actually liking what you're studying and not hating class every time you rock up. Simple stuff.

DON’T: Pick what your mates are doing

It’s important to talk to your mates about what you’re thinking of doing but you shouldn’t feel obliged to pick subjects your friends are doing and it definitely shouldn't be the only factor you consider when you're choosing your subjects.

If you hate equations and formulas, but pick Advanced Maths over Society and Culture just because all your mates are in that class, then you're not going to be in for a good year. And, when you're flunking and all your friends are actually getting decent results, you're going to wish you'd just sucked it up and picked a subject you enjoyed/were good at. 

DO: Talk about your options

Don’t be afraid to talk to your parents, mates, teachers and career advisors about your options. They can provide some advice that might help you when it comes the time to choose your subjects. Just remember that you don't have to actually take any of their advice if you don't want to; the final decision is up to you.

DON’T: Do what your parents pick

Easier said than done, huh? We’re all worried about upsetting our parents, or even worse, disappointing them. But when it comes to subject selection, there is no question that your parents are going to have a say. For some of us, it’s their way or the highway but you should have the final vote on what you want to do. You're the one that is going to have to do the assignments, show up to class and sit the exams, not your mum or dad. Remember that.

DO: Know what you’re getting into

Do your research on your subjects. Don’t just pick whatever because you were too lazy to read the pamphlet containing information about subjects, their assessments and course load. Make sure you’re making an educated decision.

DON’T: Fall into the trap thinking this will affect your whole life

I’ve left this one last for good reason. The subjects you pick now are not permanent. In fact, you can always drop one (or some) in the next year or so. But most importantly, they’re not the be end and end all.

Five years down the track, no one is going to ask what subjects you chose. Hell, no one will even ask you what your ATAR was (unless that person was heavily invested in their rank and can’t seem to let it go). The point is that your subjects don’t determine the life you’re going to live.

When it comes time to pick your subjects, don’t fret. Sit down, have a think, consider the do’s and don’ts and trust your gut. Pick subjects that you think you'll enjoy and stay away from the ones you know you'll hate. And, if worse comes to worst and you realise you've messed up, just remember you only have to stick with it till grad; after that, you're free.