DIAGNOSIS OF CAREER READINESS AMONG SENIOR UNDERGRADUATES AND GRADUATE STUDENTS: DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS, RESULTS OF CONFIRMATORY EXPERIMENT

Abstract

This study delves into the intricate landscape of career decision-making, transcending the conventional job selection paradigm to encompass a holistic understanding of oneself, an awareness of potential vocations, and insights into developmental trajectories. Conducted at Toraighyrov University in the Kazakhstan, the research engaged 310 participants, comprising 215 undergraduates and 95 graduate students. Spanning humanities and STEM fields. Key findings emphasize the critical need for tailored interventions, including a specialized career course targeting information utilization skills and self-awareness. The proposed enhancement of one-on-one career counseling sessions aims to empower students with lifelong skills for effective self-management. Employing the Career Decision-making Difficulties Questionnaire (and the Six Phases of Career Decision-making Questionnaire, the study delineates the six phases of career decision-making, shedding light on significant challenges that serve as prognostic indicators of career readiness motivation. A noteworthy finding reveals that 43% of fourth-year undergraduates and 47% of graduate students are positioned in the pivotal fourth phase, representing a fundamental competency for those embarking on their professional journeys. Furthermore, the study underscores the rarity of achieving the sixth phase, symbolizing a fully determined career choice, with only 15% of graduate-level respondents and 7% of undergraduates reaching this advanced level of decision-making prowess