Aunie Betty: I want to be a paediatrician
Dear Auntie Betty, I am an 11-year-old girl in junior high school Form One.
I wish to become a great paediatrician in future, but I usually do not do well in Maths and Science in class.
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My parents know my weakness and have advised me to become a lawyer because I do well in Social Studies.
My heart is in being a paediatrician because I love to make children smile.
Please I am confused. What should I do?
Confused Student,
Madina, Accra.
Dear Confused Student, I suggest you do not give up on your dream of becoming a great paediatrician in future. At the same time, I also suggest that while not giving up on your dream, you open up your mind to other opportunities and careers.
You have to bear this in mind: you are young, and as you grow, it is possible your career choices will change due to certain influences or exposures.
This is normal and so you should not worry too much about it. What you have planned in your mind to become in future may change as you grow.
It is possible for you to improve upon your performance in Maths and Science if you put your mind to it. Talk to your Maths and Science teachers to help you out. I am sure they can identify your weaknesses in those subjects and help you.
Additionally, you can seek the assistance of your mates who are good in those subjects. You can form a study group, so that you help one another to do well in Maths and Science.
You can also ask your parents to help you get extra tuition in Maths and Science if they are in a position to do so. Let them know how your dream of becoming a paediatrician is important to you. You also have to do your best and prove to them that you are capable by doing well in Maths and Science.
It is also important that you talk to a career guidance counsellor who can further advise you. I also encourage you to read about other professions and talk to other professionals about their work, so that you can have the necessary information to make an informed choice.
Ultimately, choosing a profession depends totally on you — no one should force you to do something you do not like. You have to make that choice yourself and love that choice.
I wish you the very best.
