Why is career development important to school counselors of all ages?

Why is career development important to school counselors of all ages?

The study that I analyzed for part 2 of the discussion brought up important points. Findings showed that important decisions are being made by elementary aged children about the types of careers they want to have. Thinking back to when I was in elementary school, I wanted a career which I was famous. I couldn’t sing, I couldn’t dance, but I thought I could act. Therefore I chose to be a famous actress, clearly that didn’t work out or else I wouldn’t be writing this blog for this class. Being an actress wasn’t realistic but throughout high school I had my heart set on it. I made that decision in elementary school and it stuck with me for many years, throughout my development. I don’t remember having any type of career exploration activities in middle school or high school. I only remember meeting my guidance counselor in high school and that was to schedule classes.  

There needs to be more career exploration activities provided to children of all ages. If I had done more research on the possibility of becoming an actress I would have abandoned that dream long before I did. It was a fantasy. I was in the prolonged fantasy stage described by Ginzberg, Ginsburg, Axelrad & Herma, 1951. If I would have more exposure to career exploration I probably would have figured things out a lot faster. As you all probably know due to previous posts, I pretty much went into college clueless. I wasted my first year and a half “figuring it out” and even then I didn’t seek any help. I think because I didn’t realize what help was out there. I wasn’t previously exposed to career activities so I didn’t value them.

Thinking back I wish I would have more involved counselors that provide me with career activities. I will be sure to make this a priority regardless of the age of the students I work with. At different ages there are different activities that can be used to help students think about what careers interest them. Interest can spark a lot, and it could be the missing piece to get a student actively involved in their own career development. Thinking back at my own experiences motivates me to be a better counselor. I deserved better. I will be better.

Norma.