And things have changed a lot! So there are a few things we really need to keep in mind. For example, did you know that in 90% of cases, students don't know what they want to study?
For our part, without meaning to—though to nearly the same extent— we end up pressuring our children to make a decision about their future. And yes, we do it with good intentions, but the result is far from what we hoped for. At the end of the day, we end up stressing them out—and we end up stressing ourselves out too.
If our children ask us for help and admit that they don't know what they want to study, let's take a deep breath—because that uncertainty is positive and can also be constructive. Below, we invite you to explore why.
A paradigm shift
Experts in this field of research warn that the concept of "vocation" as an intuitive calling is becoming outdated. This paradigm shift suggests that today, it is about building our own careers.
A system that is distinct and unique, and which is expected to include at least three types of academic degrees, namely: bachelor’s, master’s, and diploma; bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate; and bachelor’s, master’s, and continuing education courses, for example.
The possibilities are almost endless, because they span disciplines and cover a wide range of fields. Furthermore, new careers will emerge, and students will need to prepare themselves to thrive in a world that is hard for us to imagine today.
Learn about all the degree programs at Universidad ORT Uruguay
So perhaps it’s a matter of choosing one’s first major responsibly, but without fear. We all—they and we—must understand that they can explore, and that they can change direction, refocus, and delve deeper.
The focus today shouldn't be on the degree, but on the start of a fulfilling and meaningful journey.
- You might also be interested in reading: “How to Choose a Career”
Our role as parents
So,how can we support our children as they choose a career, and what should our role be as parents? The challenge lies precisely there: in providing support.
It is essential to guide them throughout the decision-making process and encourage them to explore the wide range of career paths and opportunities available—which align with the evolving needs of the professional world and the job market—so that they can successfully match these with their interests and talents.
As parents, we play a key role in guiding our children through the early stages of the journey that will shape their professional and personal identities. Feeling more at ease? Then we can breathe a sigh of relief and reflect on what matters most—something so obvious that we sometimes overlook it:What is the purpose of education?
Learn about all the degree programs at Universidad ORT Uruguay
To find fulfillment, contribute to a better society, make a living from our work—and, of course, each of us likely has other goals as well. We may rank them differently or prioritize one over another. It’s also possible that these priorities shift depending on our circumstances or specific needs at different stages of our lives.
What is always essential is to be aware of the tension that exists between “the inside” and “the outside,” “us” and “them.”
“The inner self” is what makes us happy, what we do well, and what comes naturally to us or what we have a talent for. “The outer self,” on the other hand, is what the market actually needs—which relates to employability—and what will prove useful at the local, regional, or global level.
Our children—and we—must strike a balance between what we like and what the market considers “marketable.”
Furthermore, the truth is that, at any moment, an external or internal factor could well upset that balance.
There can be many reasons for this. Perhaps I’m interested in one career today, but tomorrow another one comes along that I hadn’t even considered before; perhaps I can afford to explore a particular job or line of research today, but tomorrow my actual income needs change.
Learn about all the degree programs at Universidad ORT Uruguay
Meanwhile, while the job market currently values certain professions, some careers may become obsolete in the future. I’m sure you’ve already guessed what I’m going to say: we need to find a new balance.
Finally: Fasten your seatbelts and have a great start to your trip!
- We also recommend reading: “What to Study After High School: Strategies for the Decision-Making Process”