What’s Next after SPM?

By: Siti Hajar Mohd Zulkifli 

For many students in Malaysia, SPM (or its equivalent IGCSE, GCSE, GCE O-Level) is an important examination that defines ones future. Parents and students alike view SPM as a stepping stone to a brighter future. The first thing that someone would do after finishing their SPM would probably be, throwing their fist into the air but what's next after SPM?

There are many pathways that one can choose from, from continuing your studies immediately, to taking a break to find and finalise your interests. There is no right or wrong path for any student; whichever path you choose, it should be something that fit into your future plans. 

When you don't have a plan however, deciding on a path can be extremely difficult. Pursuing your interests in high school can take many forms, but each skill you learn and experience you gain will help you build a stronger foundation for the future. Pursuing your interests early in life allows you to map out a clear path to a suitable college, degree programme, and career. Explore the things that make you happy and motivate you to do your best, and you will undoubtedly find the right career path for your skills. This serves as a reminder that there is no such thing as a wasted dream. Follow your instincts rather than what others expect of you. Getting information from others is a good first step in determining your path, but do keep in mind that you are the one going on this journey and not them. 

If you opt to pursue an academic path right after SPM, consider what ignites your enthusiasm. What excites you. Do you enjoy dealing with numbers? Is the fast-paced world of pop culture a source of stress for you? Perhaps you have a soft spot for young children and enjoy patiently answering their numerous questions. Make a list of everything you enjoy doing in your spare time and reflect on what you truly enjoy doing. Remember, it's not the same as what you think you'd like to do. Your result slip will also reveal your strengths and flaws. Concentrate on those and select a programme that allows you to perform what you do best. 

In Malaysia, there are multiple universities and colleges that will offer you amazing programmes and one of it is INTEC Education College that located at Section 17, Shah Alam. It is crucial to find a university that can help you with your desired programme the best. For instance, in conjunction with your interest, you can choose Pre-university, Diploma, Professional Accountancy at INTEC Education College. Below is one of the many lists of programmes that one can consider: nbsp;

• A-Level
• A-Level German 
• ADTP (American Degree Program) 
• SACEi / AUSMAT (Australian Matriculation) 
• Korean Preparatory Programme 
• Japanese Preparatory Programmes 
• ACCA 
• ICAEW 
• Diploma in Business Management 
• Diploma in Accounting 
• Diploma in Scientific Halal Practices 
• Diploma in Public Management and Governance 
• Diploma in Islamic Finance

After you've settled on your academic path, you may begin with your scholarship seeking quest. Tertiary education can be expensive, but you can alleviate your parents' financial strain by applying for a scholarship to pay for your studies instead. The avalanche of information available can be intimidating, so it's critical to start early and conduct some research on the scholarships available based on the courses or universities you are interested in. You may also be eligible based on your academic achievements, co-curricular achievements, or other specific needs. Applying early also ensures that you are informed of the application deadlines. This will give you plenty of time to prepare for an interview or compose a personal statement during your candidacy. 

Some of us may be ineligible for the scholarship. Fret not, you can still relieve your parents' financial strain by working part-time. Nothing is more productive than making some extra income for the time being. Look for part-time jobs that will allow you to work for a few months. A part-time job allows you to meet individuals from different walks of life. You will gain an advantage by learning vital life lessons that you will not learn in school. Although money is important, a part-time job gives you vital work experience that will help you build both your character and your skills. If you dislike clocking in and out of an office, you may check out freelance activities such as typing, writing, data entry, and so on, which are all easily available online. 

Apart from starting a part-time job after your SPM, you can also start something you've always wanted to do or learn, such as learning a new language or even learning to dance, by enrolling in short courses in your field of interest. Taking language training can be quite advantageous because many organisations are always looking for applicants who have experience working in a multilingual and multilingual environment. Life is all about learning and experiencing new things, therefore don't be afraid to attempt anything new since it can turn out to be something very spectacular in your life. 

Lastly, do consider INTEC Education College as your top choice college for your future. If you are planning to know more about academic pathway with INTEC, please visit www.intec.edu.my.