Influencing factors on senior high school students academic track and career choices

Abstract

This descriptive study aimed to determine the influencing factors on senior high school students’ academic track and career choices among 149 senior high school students enrolled in the academic track during the school year 2023-2024 at San Nicolas National High School. A validated and reliability-tested questionnaire, along with statistical analyses, including frequency, mean, and standard deviation, were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that the majority of the respondents were female, aged 18 years old and below, enrolled in the HUMSS track, with both of their parents having attained high school graduation and working as farmers/fisherfolk with a family monthly income of Php 5,000 and below. The senior high school students preferred to pursue healthcare as their chosen career. Their academic track and career choices were moderately influenced by their interests and personal skills, which were likely the most significant factors influencing their academic track and career choices. The study's findings underscored the need for tailored interventions to support senior high school students' academic and career aspirations, particularly in a context where the majority came from low-income backgrounds and expressed interest in healthcare careers. Understanding the influence of personal skills and interests highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for skills development and career exploration early in their education. This insight could inform curriculum planning, career counseling programs, and community partnerships aimed at expanding students' access to diverse career pathways and economic opportunities aligned with their interests and skills.