Confused about careers? Find a role model
Post by Janet | September 30th, 2009
In our Role Model survey of college students and recent grads, 72% of respondents said they would have chosen different schools, majors or careers if not for their role models. A total of 82% said role models had shaped their thinking.
Role models clearly make a difference when it comes to careers. Sixty percent said their role models influenced them in “selecting career paths and opportunities, while 45% said that role models helped them with “choosing a major.”
Ways role models helped included:
- Encouraging me to go for my dreams
- Helping broaden my creativity
- Developing into a leader
Not sure where to find a role model?
Look around, they can be the people closest to you. Most said their role models were ”teachers or professors” (46%) or “parents” (41%). Some cited role models such as “friends” (19%), “family members” (15%) and “manager from job/internship” (15%).
So if you are undecided about your career path, or need some guidance, seek out people who are doing what you are interested in and ask them for some insight or advice. More likely than not they will be glad to help out!
Take our next survey on Job Search and win a $50 VISA gift card!
Tags: career paths, careers, choosing a major, role model
