The Importance of Career Exploration

The American Student Assistance (ASA) conducted a series of surveys over several months on “How Gen Z Approaches Decision-Making.” Nearly 5,000 students between ages 13 and 20 shared feedback on how they planned (or were planning) their postsecondary education and careers. Nearly 70% of current high school students and 66% of graduates indicated they wished they’d had more access to career exploration in middle and high school.

Key findings from a 2024 Pearson’s Connections Academy survey also support today’s students' uncertainty about their future after high school. Teens also wanted help from their parents, whether finding jobs (nearly 50%) or sharing resources (over 40%). With so many options, teens fear making the “wrong” choice, which can significantly impact the time and cost of their postsecondary education, training, and career path.

Yet, while teens need information to make informed decisions, many parents feel ill-equipped to guide them beyond their own career expertise. Both parents (52%) and teens (49%) expressed a strong desire to understand the skills employers value and how to develop them. A similar percentage (52% of parents and 42% of students) emphasized the need for guidance on suitable educational pathways. 

And let’s face it — testing different career paths once you’re in college isn’t always feasible, let alone affordable. Fortunately, students can start exploring potential careers in high school — and even earlier.

Career exploration strategies

The line between “jobs” and “careers” blurs in today's economy. While many students use these terms interchangeably, they represent very different paths. A job typically refers to short-term employment, often focusing on earning income. A career, on the other hand, is a long-term professional journey that provides financial security and personal fulfillment.

High school students may not fully grasp the distinction. They may have specific job aspirations, like becoming a veterinarian or data analyst, but may lack a clear understanding of the education, training, and experience required to build a successful career in those fields. 

Different career exploration strategies can help teens navigate this complex landscape. At the heart of the process lies self-reflection. 

• Extracurricular activities: Sports teams, clubs, and student organizations offer valuable insights into interests and skills.
• Hobbies: What activities do the students enjoy outside of school? Do they enjoy creative pursuits, problem-solving, or working with others?
• Summer programs and camps: These experiences can expose students to new fields and help identify potential career paths.
• Internships and volunteering: Hands-on experiences provide a peek into different work environments and allow students to explore their interests firsthand.

Plan your strategy

Whether you’re a parent or a teen, we understand if you feel overwhelmed by your options. Here are some tips on how to begin.

Figure out what matters to you and what you like.

You don’t have to have all the answers right now. Even if your interests evolve, exploring options can set you on the path to a rewarding future. A great starting point? Identifying your interests. You can take an interest survey using an online tool like BigFutureQuiz, which helps match your preferences to potential careers. Or check out ASVAB’s Career Exploration Program. Many colleges and universities, like Yale, also have career assessment tools on their websites.  

Think about your values. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? Do you love to create, solve problems, help others? Do you like the challenge of taking things apart and reassembling them? Is it fun figuring out how things work?

While interests are important, so is figuring out your values and skills. 

• What’s most important to you in a career? 
• Do you seek a high salary, work-life balance, the opportunity to make a difference, or a chance to be your own boss?
• What are you good at? 
• Do you have strong communication, leadership, or technical skills?

Research options.

Once you answer those questions and take a quiz or two to identify possibilities (if you don’t already have a few in mind), it’s time to do some digging! Here are some key questions to consider:

• What does a typical day look like? Job descriptions often provide a general overview. See if you can learn about the specific tasks and responsibilities professionals perform regularly.
• What’s the work environment like? Would you prefer a fast-paced indoor setting or rather work outside? Some roles require independent work, while others rely on teamwork and collaboration.
• What’s the earning potential? Research typical salary ranges for the profession, remembering that entry-level roles may pay far less than middle- and upper-level roles. Consider potential expenses — rent, car payment, insurance, healthcare, entertainment — and estimate your take-home pay after taxes (approximately 22% in the U.S.).
• Is the career in demand? Research job growth projections to see if the field is expected to expand or contract in the next decade. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is a great place to start. It predicts significant growth in fields like information security, nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, statisticians, and wind turbine service technicians.
• What education and training are needed? Some careers require two-year, four-year, or graduate degrees. Others require internships or apprenticeships. Some require only a certificate program and skills training.

Set your goal (note: goals can evolve!).

Once you narrow down a few potential careers, plan your next steps. Visualize your future and where you see yourself in five or ten years. Then, work toward that goal by exploring these possible careers more deeply. You could shadow someone in the field, volunteer in a related area, or informally interview a professional in that career.

If you’re ready to look at postgraduate programs, cast a wide net to see what schools offer the degree or training you need to obtain an entry-level role. Visit the colleges and talk to professors and others teaching classes needed to prepare you for that career. Above all, remember your career journey is a continuous process of learning and growth.

Review the plan and adjust.

Remember, career exploration is a dynamic process, not a one-time event. Your interests, values, and skills may change. For example, if you have a passion for animals and thought you wanted to become a veterinarian, but you completed a summer program involved with animal conservation and fell in love with that type of work, do not apologize for updating and revising your plan!

Review your goals regularly — talking to your guidance counselor or parents can be helpful — and adjust as needed. 

One last thought: If you don’t know what you want to do when you grow up, you’re not alone. Only 25% of high school students are “very sure” of their post-graduation plans. According to the U.S. Department of Education, 33% of college students change majors at least once — and 10% change their majors two or more times! While you don’t need all the answers before graduating from high school, exploring possible careers before starting college can help guide what you choose to study. 

Want more tips and insights? Check out our full Guide to College Admissions here.