Post-Class 12 Career Planning: Top Tips for Choosing College, Exams & Skills

Confused after Class 12? What's next? Which College? What Course? Entrance exams? What Career? With the dust settled on Class 12 boards, a wave of excitement and uncertainty washes over many graduates.

I am Aswini Bajaj, a qualified CA, CS, CFA, FRM, CAIA, CIPM, CFP, RV, CCRA, CIIB, CIRA, and AIM. I have taught at eminent institutions, IIMs, IITs, IAS Officers, corporates, and founders. Also, consulting from early-age startups to Nifty50 giants. I also hold a distinguished International Book Record and am a TEDx Speaker. I have been teaching finance to 1000s of professionals across 100+ countries globally.

Here's some valuable advice to plan your career after school:

Choosing college takes the centre stage:

Securing a seat at one of the most reputable colleges is more crucial than choosing between BCom, BBA, BMS, BAF, or similar courses. The course itself might not make a significant difference, but the ranking and reputation of the college will have a profound impact on your future.

When selecting a college, consider the following factors:

1. Admission Criteria: Some colleges accept your class 12 scores, while others require entrance exams. Understand the specific requirements for each college you're interested in.

2. Timing of the College: Evaluate your time after college hours for self-study and preparing for professional exams. Efficient time management is key to balancing college life and additional studies.

3. Clubs and Societies: Assess the availability and quality of clubs and societies. These extracurricular activities are vital in grooming and upskilling you, providing opportunities for personal and professional development.

4. College Ranking: The college's ranking is important, especially if you are looking for campus placements. Higher-ranked colleges often provide better placement opportunities and attract top-tier companies.
Choosing the right college sets the foundation for your future success, so weigh these factors carefully to make an informed decision.

Beyond Academics:

College life isn't just about textbooks or what is depicted in movies and series. Participate in management events, clubs, and societies to hone your communication, teamwork, and leadership skills. College life provides a platform for grooming.

Long-Term Perspective:

Resist the allure of quick-fix courses or certifications. Your career is a marathon, not a sprint. Build a strong foundation by pursuing in-depth knowledge in a chosen field. For example, a three-month course with no passing criteria will not lead you to becoming a fund manager. Instead, opt for long-term, credible courses or certifications that provide substantial value.

Explore Options Beyond Engineering and Management:

There are three popular undergraduate programs offered by the Indian Institute for students pursuing finance and commerce after Class 12: Chartered Accountancy (CA), Company Secretary (CS), and Cost and Management Accounting (CMA). Each of these programs has three levels.

• Chartered Accountancy (CA): Emphasizes subjects like cost, tax, accountancy, and finance.
• Company Secretary (CS): Focuses on corporate law.
• Cost and Management Accounting (CMA): Concentrates on costing.

There are global institutes that conduct the triple-crown Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Financial Risk Manager (FRM), and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA).

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): Known as the gold standard for finance professionals, focusing on finance.
• Financial Risk Manager (FRM): Specializes in risk management and financial institutions.
• Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA): A post-CFA qualification for alternative investments.

These global certifications are conducted by institutes based in the US, but exams are held in over 80 countries worldwide.

Develop Essential Skills:

If you feel you did not gain the necessary grooming during school, make sure to use this time in college to participate in activities and internships to develop yourself, even if it means delaying your professional exams by a few months. Remember, a well-rounded you is a successful you! While technical skills are crucial, focus heavily on mastering communication skills, writing, and critical thinking. These experiences will be invaluable assets on your resume.

Basic software skills are essential. While specific tools will vary with your chosen field, prioritize mastering the Microsoft Office suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) for maximum impact.

Reading Habits:

Successful people always read. Even if you don't have a habit of reading, start with a few fiction books. Eventually, level up to reading nonfiction as well. Embrace reading during college and beyond to enhance your career prospects. Beginners may start with books like:

• Psychology of Money
• Richest Man in Babylon
• Peaks and Valleys

Cultivating a reading habit can significantly contribute to your personal and professional growth.

Seek Guidance:

Do not make decisions based on the frustrations of your cousin or friend who is currently stressed due to exams. Instead, seek advice from experienced professionals who are now benefiting from their education and experience.

By following these tips and thoroughly researching your options, you can confidently navigate your future career path. Having taken many of these exams myself, I understand their difficulty. I have also worked with placement committees, taught at colleges, and collaborated with corporate professionals. I love guiding students and sharing my experiences.

Check out the Career Seminar Playlist on YouTube for better insights on your career ahead!

Remember, success takes time, dedication, and strategic planning.