Is exploring students’ career interests still a necessity? An overview of the STEM world of work

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Interest is an important career component that can be an impactful source of guidance and motivation in students’ career trajectories. Interests that match a student’s environment tend to lead to an optimized fit and a more satisfying career.

OBJECTIVE: The current study provides a bird’s-eye view of students’ academic and career choices by outlining the factors that determine students’ career decision-making.

METHOD: Two main databases, the Web of Science and SCOPUS, were utilized to attain relevant articles for the current study. Steered at the initial stage by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses method, or PRISMA, 55 articles were identified.

FINDINGS: At the final stage, 15 articles were analyzed, the results of which listed interpersonal and contextual factors and outcome expectation factors that had influenced students’ career development. Despite the rapid evolution of STEM careers, and possible changes of interest during adulthood, most students found that vocational and career interests are crucial elements in their career decision-making process.

CONCLUSION: To fill the STEM career gap or “hole,” exploring students’ career interests, providing the necessary support, and aligning information with students’ diversified career needs as well as interests are crucial to maximize their current or future job satisfaction, performance, and well-being.