With the implementation of the K to 12 program, Senior High School students now have the opportunity to customize their curriculum to better suit the college degree they want to pursue. These specialized “courses”, better known as “strands”, are a great way for high school students to get a headstart in their college education.

There are numerous strands to choose from, which can make it a little difficult for some students to decide which strand to take. With that in mind, here are four steps on how to choose the senior high strand that will best fit you.

1. Set Your Goals

Has anyone ever asked you what you want to be when you grow up? Well now’s the time to start thinking of an answer to that question. Is it to be a business owner? An interior designer? A lawyer or a doctor? An executive chef? A graphic artist? With so many career paths and opportunities to choose from, you can narrow down your choices by choosing what activities appeal most to you. What is it that you enjoy doing? Make a list of the things that make you happy and inspire you to work hard and put in your best efforts.

2. Research the Senior High Tracks

Once you’ve set your goals, it’s time to research! You can check the internet and have a chat with your parents or teachers to find out what senior high tracks are available. There are a total of 8 senior high strands in the Philippines, which are Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS), Accountancy Business and Management (ABM), General Academic Strand (GAS), Home Economics, Agri-fishery Arts, Industrial Arts, and Information and Communications Technology.

3. Match the Track to Your Goals

Now that you’ve set your goals and done your research, it’s time to match them up. If you have an inclination towards being a hotelier or chef, the ABM strand would be best for you. The HUMMS strand is ideal for you if you want to become a journalist, lawyer or politician in the future, while the ICT strand is perfect for the tech savvy who enjoy programming and web design. If you aren’t sure what course your want to take in college yet, GAS is a K12 track that encompasses different areas of education to keep your options open for the future.

4. Find a School that Offers Your Chosen Track

One thing you’ll need to keep in mind in all of this is that not all high schools in the Philippines offer strands. After you have chosen your senior high strand, you’ll need to start looking at schools, like Enderun Colleges, that offer the strand you prefer. When you do your research, look at the curriculum – what subjects are part of the course? Are these classes that you would be interested to be in and learn about? Once you’ve made a school shortlist, try visiting them or go on a campus tour so you can get to see the facilities and meet some students and teachers. When you go on the campus tour, don’t be afraid to ask questions – get to know as much as you can. You might also want to consider the location of the school. Are there student dormitories nearby? How far away is the school from your house? How long will your travel or commute be? The less time you spend on the road, the more time you have to study and relax.

At Enderun Colleges we offer ABM, HUMMS and GAS to senior high students, in preparation for the college courses that we offer. Schedule a campus visit with us to find out more about our tracks, curriculum and student life.