| Adapted from an online discussion. Dear Carolyn: Our daughter’s high school has a technical program that would allow her to take classes toward becoming a Patient Care Technician by graduation. Her goal is to become a pediatric nurse. The problem is that it would require her to drop an elective (chorus) that I know brings her much joy and I think is very beneficial to her mental health. Most of her friends are from her various choral activities. She just seems so young to be making decisions on a career path already. Full disclosure: I was a chorus kid and it was one of the few positive things for me in high school, so I realize this is coloring my view a bit. I also KNEW I wanted to become a teacher — until I actually pursued that track in college and realized it was NOT for me. The pressure put on these kids is immense. I just want her to enjoy her high school experience. She will have time to pursue her degree and certifications after graduation. But is it our call to make? I worry about her resenting us if we deny her this track, but worry more about her mental health if she no longer has chorus as an outlet and bringer-of-joy. — Worried Answer this week’s reader question Here's your chance to channel your inner Carolyn Hax and respond to a reader question. | 
