3 School Subjects You Definitely Shouldn't Choose

Choosing subjects is exciting! It 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.

Up till now, you've been forced to do subjects that you have zero interest in. And you'll want to think about subjects that may reflect your interests and strengths and could provide you a stepping stone to the job of your choice.

Sure, that all sounds well and good, but what subjects should you definitely not choose?

1. The subject your parents want you to choose

Parents want what's best for you... but they're not always right.

Your parents may have some different school subjects in mind then you do, but you may not be vibing with their choices at all.

The truth is, you won't be motivated and determined to study for a class you're not interested in. You'll be left pressured and stressed thanks to choosing subjects not for you but for your parents.

I know, I know... it's easier said than done, huh? But you're the one doing the assignments, showing up to class and sitting the exams, not your parents.

2. The subject that your mates are choosing

What is better than a class with your mates? You're constantly getting separated by the teacher because you won't shut up, sending notes, playing hangman, uncontrollably laughing at inside jokes, sneaking snacks... your mates can even make maths class a vibe.

But here's the thing. These subject choices are kinda more important now. The study load is going to be heftier and you'll need to be passionate about the class if you want good grades and, consequently, a red hot ATAR. Like if you hate equations, but pick Advanced Maths over Modern History just because all your mates are in that class, then you're not going to be in for a good year.

You can't really copy your friends' subject choice just like you can't follow their career choice. Pave your own path, even if that means that'll you'll have to be a lone wolf in some classes. Don't stress it! You can hang with them after school.

3. That one subject too many

Do you spiritually and mentally relate to Hermione Granger? Are you making your workload massive, leaving you with no free periods to study during? 

If you don't have a time-turner, I'm here to burst your bubble. Don't frazzle yourself by choosing more units than you can feasibly do! Talk to parents, friends, teachers and your careers guidance councillor to work out the best route for you. But most importantly, ponder what study load you can handle because the HSC is daunting enough. You don't want to add unnecessary stress.

So there was a reassuring theme here. Listen to yourself! Don't follow your parents or your friends.

And when it comes time to pick your subjects, sit down and ask yourself a handful of questions. What subjects actually make sense for you to study? What are you passionate about? What will lead you towards your dream career (if you know what that is of course but no stress if you don't yet!).

But more importantly, get keen and have fun! The end is in sight!