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In a student’s later years in high school, they are often asked the question, “What do you want to do when you grow up?” Some young people are certain about their future, but others sometimes scramble between choices. According to a survey conducted by BestColleges, out of 1,000 high school students, 52% feel pressured to make decisions about their future too soon. This causes anxiety which can lead to a young adult choosing the wrong career path and wasting time.
High school students should not be pressured so much to have their career choices figured out right away. They should have access to free school programs that expose them to different career paths and activities that integrate multiple skills.
Being able to afford the education needed to pursue a chosen career can be very difficult for many students especially in the U.S.A. The average cost of a four-year college education in the United States is $104,000. In comparison, Finland and Cuba are two countries that provide college level education for free or low cost. The governments of these countries fund their education system. They care a lot more about their youth and want them to have the best chances of getting a good job without the mental strain of college debt. Students are given the opportunity to focus more on what they want to learn rather than how they are going to pay for what they’re learning. However, in the United States, students suffer from stress and pressure in all aspects of their collegiate journey.
According to research conducted by Grand Canyon University, 19% of college students choose a career that guarantees a high income. This type of thinking is subject to grow and become common, especially with inflation and a growing fear of not being able to afford basic necessities like food, shelter and school supplies. This issue can cause students to take on multiple jobs, creating extra stress for students. With prices continuing to rise, schools should also implement financial education programs along with career day. Knowing about finance and budgeting will be a much needed and useful skill through college and adulthood.
All school systems need to incorporate more supportive classes to encourage and help students figure out what careers they are interested in with a calm and worry free mind. Being successful in life and having a strong career is always a goal, however the process in which one chooses their life’s path should never be rushed.
Everyone is blessed with a different talent so young people should be introduced to many different occupations to uncover their knack or expertise. Without the exposure, youth may be subject to choose the wrong walk of life and be dissatisfied.
The Watoto Speak! 