Junior High School Students' Career Plans for the Future

Abstract

This study uses the Comprehensive Career Needs Survey to assess the career plans of junior high school students in Southern Alberta, Canada. Junior high students are asked (a) what they plan to do after they leave high school; (b) their confidence in finding an occupation they enjoy, obtaining training or education, and finding work in their chosen occupation; (c) how important it is to work in their community; and (d) where they anticipate working. Results indicate that junior high students intend to pursue further education and work and are optimistic about achieving their career goals. Students would like to find employment in their community but are considering working provincially, nationally, or internationally. Results suggest that career planning programs need to begin at the junior high level and that junior high students need to be involved in career program planning and future needs assessments.