Career Guidance for the Next Generation: How to Shape Their Future

Career Planning: A Lifelong Journey 

In the Philippines, high school graduates often choose their college courses based on trends among their peers or suggestions from family members. Unfortunately, the child’s personal interests and passions are often overlooked in this decision-making process.

Some private schools have started offering career counseling programs, which are often inaccessible to students from middle-income or impoverished families. As a result, many young Filipinos only discover their valid career preferences after entering the workforce. A common scenario involves students completing a degree—like computer engineering—only to realize that their chosen field does not align with their passions.

This mismatch leads many to shift courses during college or even change careers later in life. While some succeed in finding their true calling, the process is often costly and time-consuming. Taking a second course or pivoting careers usually involves sacrifices and delays in achieving stability. Nonetheless, the effort invested in their initial education is always well-spent; it serves as a learning experience and stepping stone. As the saying goes, "Better late than never."

How You Can Help Shape Future Careers

If you’re reading this, you have an opportunity to help others avoid this cycle. By sharing your knowledge and guiding family and friends, you can empower them to make more informed career decisions.

From an early age, children often show signs of their interests, such as singing, playing instruments, or tinkering with building blocks. Their choice of toys or activities can offer clues about their future aspirations, like becoming doctors, artists, or engineers. As they grow older, parents and mentors can play a pivotal role by introducing them to various career paths.

Exposure is key. Educational or career-focused TV shows like ER or Glee or movies about different professions can spark curiosity. Simple conversations—asking children what they dream of becoming—can lead to meaningful discussions. Providing reading materials, brochures about universities, or information on vocational courses can further guide them.

Consider encouraging children to explore two-year programs or applied courses. These shorter programs provide foundational knowledge and skills. If the student later decides to pursue a different path, some completed units can be credited toward a new course.

The Importance of Focus and Career Planning

It is crucial to help children develop focus early on. While switching jobs or fields can enhance versatility, building expertise in one area requires time, dedication, and a clear sense of direction. Specialization is often the key to long-term career success.

Creating a career plan involves envisioning a life path. Here’s an example: During college, I attended a seminar where a young vice president of a telecom company spoke about career development. Inspired by his story, I set a goal to one day stand before a large audience and share my experiences.

I created a roadmap:

1. Complete my degree in Industrial Psychology.
2. Start in recruitment and work my way up to becoming a specialist.
3. Gain exposure to different areas of Human Resources and eventually become a manager.

As I approach retirement age, I plan to transition into teaching, where I can share my expertise with the next generation. To prepare for this new chapter, I am earning extra units in my master’s program and gaining experience as a part-time instructor.

Career Development: A Lifelong Process

Career planning doesn’t end when you land your first job. It’s a continuous process, evolving with your interests, skills, and life circumstances. Even at 65, you don’t have to stop working; retirement can be an opportunity to explore new passions or give back through mentorship and teaching.

Just like learning, career growth is a lifelong journey. Recognizing this can inspire you to stay committed to your goals, adapt to challenges, and embrace personal and professional development opportunities.

By guiding others or reflecting on your own path, you contribute to a culture of thoughtful and intentional career planning that leads to fulfillment and lasting success.