Every year, after the declaration of the Class 12 examination results, thousands of students across Kashmir begin one of the most important journeys of their academic lives—the selection of a college and an undergraduate course. Unfortunately, this crucial decision is often influenced by misconceptions, peer pressure, social prestige, and incomplete information rather than careful planning and career aspirations. The consequences of a wrong decision may remain with a student for years.
One of the biggest mistakes observed during the admission season is that students and even parents give greater importance to the name of the college rather than the course being offered. The first question often asked is, “Which college is better?” instead of “Which course is best suited to my interests, abilities, and future career?” This approach is fundamentally flawed.
Students must understand that irrespective of whether they study in a college located in Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Kupwara, Pulwama, or any other affiliated institution, the degree is ultimately awarded by the University of Kashmir. The academic value of the degree remains the same. What makes the real difference is whether a student has chosen a course that aligns with his or her aptitude, interests, and long-term career goals. A student pursuing a preferred subject in a nearby college is likely to excel far more than another studying an unwanted subject merely to gain admission into a reputed or popular college.
This unhealthy preference for a handful of colleges has also created another challenge. Every year, a few colleges witness overwhelming admissions, resulting in overcrowded classrooms and increased pressure on infrastructure and faculty. At the same time, several neighbouring colleges located only a few kilometres away, despite offering quality education and a wide range of courses, remain underutilized. Such an imbalance not only affects the quality of education but also places unnecessary stress on students who travel long distances every day when equally good opportunities are available closer to their homes.
Before selecting a course, students should carefully evaluate several important factors. They should identify their areas of interest, understand their strengths, explore future career opportunities associated with different subjects, and seek guidance from teachers, career counsellors, and experienced professionals instead of relying solely on friends or social media trends. Choosing a course simply because it is popular or because friends are opting for it can prove to be a costly mistake.
Another aspect that deserves equal attention is the availability of sports and recreational facilities in the college. College education is not confined to classrooms alone. Physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining health, reducing stress, improving concentration, and developing leadership, teamwork, and discipline. Students should therefore consider whether a college has adequate sports infrastructure, playgrounds, gymnasium facilities, trained physical education staff, and opportunities to participate in sports and cultural activities. Academic excellence and physical well-being must go hand in hand to ensure holistic development.
While students step into a new phase of independence, the responsibility of parents does not end with securing admission. In fact, parental guidance becomes even more important during the college years. Parents should remain actively involved in their children’s academic and personal lives. They should know the college timings, ensure that their children attend classes regularly, and remain aware of when they leave home and when they return. Regular communication with teachers and periodic monitoring of attendance can help identify academic or behavioural concerns at an early stage.
Equally important is awareness of the company students keep. The transition from school to college exposes young adults to new social environments where peer influence can be both positive and negative. Parents should encourage healthy friendships and remain vigilant against habits such as smoking, substance abuse, and other activities that may adversely affect a student’s future. Guidance, trust, and open communication are far more effective than excessive restrictions.
College life also demands maturity in behaviour, appearance, and conduct. Students should remember that educational institutions are centres of learning and character building. Maintaining appropriate dress, respecting teachers and fellow students, following institutional rules, and upholding ethical and moral values reflect one’s personality and contribute to a healthy academic environment. Discipline, punctuality, honesty, and mutual respect are qualities that will benefit students not only during college but throughout their professional lives.
The admission season should therefore be viewed not merely as a race to secure a seat in a particular college but as an opportunity to make informed decisions that shape one’s future. Students should choose courses that match their aspirations, consider the academic and extracurricular opportunities available, and remember that success depends far more on dedication and hard work than on the name of the institution. Parents, educational institutions, and society must collectively guide young learners towards thoughtful choices that promote academic success, personal growth, and responsible citizenship.
A well-chosen course, a supportive family, a disciplined lifestyle, and a balanced emphasis on academics and physical activity together provide the strongest foundation for a meaningful and successful future. As thousands of students across Kashmir begin this new chapter, let wisdom guide their choices rather than popularity, perception, or peer pressure.
(The Author is Director of Physical Education & Sports, Higher Education Department, Jammu & Kashmir)
