Helping Students Make Smart Career Choices

Ever wondered why so many people seem unhappy with their jobs? A global survey by Gallup found that nearly 85% of employees feel dissatisfied at work. That’s a huge number! And more often than not, it’s because they ended up in careers that don’t match their interests, skills, or passions. As Confucius once said, "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." But for many, that’s easier said than done.

For students, career choices can feel overwhelming. You’re expected to pick a path that will shape your future, yet many don’t get the right guidance. The truth is, choosing a career randomly might seem like the easy way out, but considering how much time we spend working, wouldn’t it make sense to choose something that actually excites you?

Take this—back in 2017, the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) found that about 65% of students selected their courses based on what their parents, teachers, or friends suggested. While advice from those around us can be helpful, it doesn’t always take into account what truly matters—your interests, talents, and strengths.

A career isn’t just about earning a paycheck. It’s about using your skills and passions to make a difference, contribute to society, and grow as a person. Making a smart career choice now means setting yourself up for a future where you enjoy what you do every day.

In our next article, we’ll break it down further—what exactly is a career, and why does it matter? Stay tuned!