UNDERSTANDING THE CAREERS OF STUDENTS: INSIGHTS FOR EFFECTIVE GUIDANCE AND COUNSELING STRATEGIES

Author: Philippines

Abstract

The primary objective of this research was to develop a guidance and counseling program specifically designed to address the career-related needs of undergraduate Psychology students at Cavite State University-Silang. The methodology involved administering a needs assessment questionnaire to the entire student population, employing total population sampling to collect data from 565 undergraduate Psychology students. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics frequency, percentage, and ranking methods to identify and prioritize student concerns. Demographic analysis showed that the sample was predominantly female (81.77%). By year level, fourth-year students made up the largest group (31.33%), followed by third-year (28.85%), first-year (23.54%), and second-year (16.28%) students. Importantly, students identified their paramount career concern (Rank 1) as the need for more information about their personal traits, interests, skills, and values (43.01%). Secondary concerns included uncertainty about their current course (10.97%, Rank 2) and the need for more information about specific courses and occupations (9.20%, Rank 3). These findings led to the proposal of a Guidance and Counseling Intervention Program aimed at equipping students with awareness and confidence in their career choices while proactively addressing challenges. The program also seeks to bridge the gap between students and available guidance and counseling resources. This study's results provide a solid foundation for enhancing Guidance and Counseling services in both private and public schools across Cavite, ensuring that students receive relevant support tailored to their career development needs. This approach aligns with best practices in career counseling for undergraduate psychology students, which emphasize self-awareness, exploration of personal traits, and preparation for career decision-making to improve adaptability and confidence in career planning.