Parents: This is the time of year for high school juniors and seniors to be thinking about that next important step after high school and for college students to schedule their classes for next semester. It’s the season for much potential confusion about what that looks like, so I’ve decided to bring these ideas to you for your consideration!
The Career Journey: Five Steps for Parents to Help High School and College Students Choose a Major and Career
As a parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their education and future career. If your high school or college student is feeling unsure or overwhelmed by having to choose a major or decide on a career path, you’re certainly not alone. Many students struggle with these choices, and your support can make all the difference in the outcome. It’s harder now in our world of work to make good decisions with so many more choices than most of us ever had. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this important phase together.
1. Start with Open Conversations
Encourage your student to express their thoughts and feelings about potential majors and careers. Ask open-ended questions like:
What activities make you lose track of time?
Do you prefer working with people, data, or creative tasks?
What kind of work-life balance do you want in your career?
Do you prefer a job with a structured schedule or a more flexible one?
Are you open to relocation for your career, or do you want to stay in a specific area?
Where do you see yourself in five or ten years?
What kind of impact do you want to make through your work?
Listening without judgment is key. Your role is to provide support and guidance, not pressure.
2. Help your Student Explore Natural Abilities, Interests, Personality, and Values
These four areas are critical for your student to understand about themselves. Tools are available to help them understand themselves in each of these areas and then to explore the careers that would be the best fit for them based on all four areas. Valuable information about various careers can be found through the use of resources such as:
· Online Career Databases: Websites like the Bureau of Labor Statistics offer detailed information about job outlook, required education, and salaries.
· My Next Move (mynextmove.org): Short career videos provide excellent overviews of specific careers, explain what the worker does, the job outlook, training/educational requirements with zip code listings, salaries, and related occupations.
· Informational Interviews: Suggest that your student reach out to professionals in fields of interest for firsthand insights. This research can help them understand the realities of various careers and help them understand whether or not they can see themselves doing that type of work.
3. Be Supportive, Not Controlling
Remember, your student’s major and career choices are ultimately theirs. While you can offer advice and share your experiences, it’s crucial to let them make their own decisions. Support them by:
Being their sounding board when they need to vent or brainstorm.
Celebrating their achievements and progress, regardless of the direction they choose.
4. Seek Professional Guidance
If your student is still feeling uncertain, consider professional career counseling services. Many schools offer resources, and independent career coaches can provide personalized guidance. Visit my website (careerworks360.com) to learn more about me, the approach I take with career decision-making, and schedule a free 15-minute consultation for more information.
5. Emphasize Lifelong Learning
Remind your student that choosing a major or career is not a lifelong commitment. Many people change careers multiple times throughout their lives. Emphasizing the importance of adaptability and lifelong learning can alleviate some of the pressure they may feel.
Conclusion
Choosing a college major and a career can be a daunting task for many students, but with your support, they can navigate this journey with confidence. Open conversations, exploration, and professional guidance can empower your child to make informed decisions that align with their passions and goals. Remember, your encouragement and understanding are invaluable as they embark on this exciting chapter in their lives.
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