High school isn’t solely about academic growth—it’s also for shaping future careers. Every high school student dreams of their future career, but what influences these dreams? What makes us want to pursue a certain career? How much do personal interests, family influence, societal expectations, and educational experiences affect our career choices? A survey was conducted to explore the influences that affect our decisions.
According to the survey conducted among freshmen and seniors, 41.7% of students reported that family influence initially sparked their interest or made them feel pressured to pursue a particular career path. However, the survey also revealed that 68% of students changed their career choices since entering high school, with the discovery of new career paths and changing preferences being the main reasons for that. As remarked, “I think the most significant thing I wish I had known was that I don’t need to rush knowing what I want to do in life…I pressured myself into one career that fit family expectations rather than taking my time to find what I enjoy the most.”
Interestingly, over 50% of students attributed their career choices to classes and experiences in high school, particularly math and science courses. The influence of education on career decisions is significant. Exposure to different subjects, experiences, and interactions with teachers plays a crucial role in shaping students’ career paths.
Moreover, the survey showed that societal expectations heavily influence career decisions, with over 85% of students acknowledging its effect on them. Balancing personal passions with external expectations is a challenge for many students as they choose a career path, especially since societal expectations can be argued to have a narrow view of success. As Senior, Mohammed Niang, expressed, “There are a lot of non mainstream jobs that pay a lot of money that people are unaware of. Society needs all kinds of different businesses to work properly, not just doctors, lawyers, etc… I wish I had known I had different options earlier, it would have helped my sense of direction in life.”
Over the years spent in high school, from freshman to senior year, students’ career choices change and evolve due to family, educational, and societal pressures. High school helps shape students’ future careers through diverse experiences and self reflection, and counselors can help guide students through their high school journey. When interviewed, a BHA parent stated that, “Teachers, as well as family, should encourage students to explore career options, and students shouldn’t be afraid to do so. This will allow us to grow as individuals, and as a society as well.”
