Choosing a career is one of the most significant decisions seniors face as they prepare for life after high school, and tension might arise with college application deadlines approaching.

The process of career selection is different for everyone, shaped by personal experiences and guidance from those around them. For many students, internships and working has been the closest exposure to real-world work environments, influencing their decision making.

“I worked in a company that helps promote loyalty to customers and clients in 2023 for a whole month, and it definitely influenced my decision. I liked making relationships with customers to make quality products, and that is what I will focus on in university” Lucas Henao, senior, said.

Henao, who ultimately chose to study business, also acknowledges the influence of family in his decision. Having a father who works in the business field inspired him, as he can experience real life scenarios from a young age, and also be motivated after realising what his father has accomplished. For many, family has a high influence on the career decision for seniors.

“I have a lot of family that studied both business and marketing, and i grew up watching and admiring them. This took me to not only wanting to follow their steps but to obtain wise advice from them to enter this field.” Isabel Jaramillo, senior, said.

Jaramillo, who decided to pursue international business, was initially undecided between business and marketing. However, after speaking with family members and writing down her long-term goals, she determined that business would give her the foundation she needed, opening doors to later specialize in other fields if necessary depending on the route her life takes.

“I think that I still have a lot to watch and learn. And I feel like once you start your career, your dreams of traveling the world are essentially over, due to the fact that you will just want to start working and earning money,” Jaramillo said.

But on other scenarios, what about those students who are still unsure about what to study? If internships don’t work, and family influence is not powerful enough, there are still other possible alternatives to reach this decision. Currently, there are many professionals dedicated to inspire younger generations into their best possible choice.

“Definitely, if I were unsure, I would seek professional help to make this decision. There are many courses you can take or counselors you can talk to. Not only this but you can take online exams to find what you are good at” Henao said.

Even for those who feel confident in their choices, it is clear that studying a certain career doesn’t indirectly involve a life commitment to work on that specific field. Flexibility and personal growth may lead individuals to explore new paths in the future.

“Some people might study something that they don’t feel passionate about, and they might change their vision after they finish their career,” Henao, said.