The Decision: PCMB or Commerce?

Choosing the right stream in high school is a significant decision that can influence a student's future academic and career path. I decided to go with the Physics, Chemistry, Math, and Biology (PCMB) stream for my 11th grade. This decision was driven by my passion for science, as I found it more engaging than the commerce stream. My parents were supportive of this choice, understanding that science would keep my options open for university, potentially in engineering or medicine. However, my decision was not without its share of skepticism.

10th Standard and the Initial Struggle

Passing my 10th standard during a lockdown period posed additional challenges. Without structured exams, my academic performance might have been impacted. However, I managed to secure a solid grade of 79, which kept the family from putting pressure on my course selection. At that stage, I was still unsure about my career aspirations and believed that a science stream would provide the flexibility I needed to explore different paths.

Navigating the Challenges

The comments that rolled in were discouraging. People often question the difficulty of certain streams and emphasize the potential suffering. However, these concerns did not sway my decision. I continued to study diligently, passing my 12th with a grade of 75. Currently, I am pursing Chartered Accountancy (CA), a testament to the flexibility my initial choice provided.

The Shift to Commerce

Despite my initial success, some individuals raised doubts about my choice. I decided to take the commerce stream without mathematics, as I was not inclined towards a career in medicine or engineering. My performance in 10th grade was not poor; I scored a 91, well above average. I made this choice because I found greater resonance with academia and the future prospects of becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA).

My father’s statement, ‘CA sahiba,’ served as a significant motivator. It became my responsibility to live up to that title. Undeterred by the occasional demotivators, I focused on my goal and the importance of solving balance sheets. My current journey is a reflection of my determination to achieve those aspirations.

Lessons Learned and Choices

The decision to take the PCMB stream allowed me to explore various academic avenues and set a solid foundation for my future. While some may argue that the math subjects in commerce are self-evident, my personal experience has proven that they are integral to the broader spectrum of commerce and accounting.

Now, let's delve into the decision-making process during my 10th standard and the confidence I maintained throughout.

Currently, I am in the process of completing my 11th standard exams, and this is my math exam today. Here are some insights from my experience:

I passed my 10th standard with flying colors, securing a score of 94.3. My mother initially wanted me to take PCM, but I did not feel inclined towards actual reason for choosing the PCMB stream was rooted in my passion for science. At that time, I had no aspirations to become an engineer or a doctor. My dream was to become a CA, driven by my father's statement and my own ambition.I currently prepare for my 11th standard finals, and my path has been marked by determination and a clear vision for my future.

Ultimately, the key to successful stream selection lies in personal interest, future goals, and family support. My experience highlights the importance of staying true to your passion while keeping an open mind for future opportunities.