What Middle School Students Know About Careers and the Influences Surrounding Their Choices

Students in school face a wide range of education and career choices, and given the importance of education and career decisions for life success, it is important that they make informed choices. This study examined students’ knowledge and sources of information about careers. In addition, the authors explored how students make career choices and who helps them. This study sought to determine what middle school students know about careers, the factors influencing their career choices, and their knowledge of the minimum educational requirements for entry into these fields. Data for this study were collected from middle school students (grades 6-9) using surveys that were completed as part of a financial literacy simulation activity. The four main career clusters of interest to the students were: (a) health science; (b) arts, audio/video technology, and communication; (c) science and technology and law; and (d) public safety, corrections, and security. Of the selected career clusters, some were not in demand in their geographic region whereas other careers were in greater demand than students selected. A small percentage of the students correctly knew the educational requirements for their chosen careers. Finally, this article provides suggestions and resources for teachers to incorporate career exploration in middle school.