Preferences of High Achieving High School Students in Their Career Development

Abstract

The intent of this study was to identify the needs and preference of high-achieving high school students. In terms of career related programs in high school, Students listed AP courses and mentoring as their preferred career-related programs. Also, students stated that career guidance by counselors, workshops or sessions, and tech prep were the top three least-preferred career-related programs in high school. As important factors influencing students’ career choice, students listed their own interests and the family environment. Most students mentioned their own interests and their parents’ expectations together, indicating that parents tended to develop students’ talent and career interests based on the students’ interests. The study suggested that parents, teachers, and guidance counselors should recognize their own critical roles in shaping high-achieving students’ career development and provide tailored career related services to meet different needs of high-achieving students.