Career Counseling: Its Contribution to an Individual’s Educational and Professional Path

We live in an era of constant changes in the job market, which evidently influence the demand for and choice of specific educational directions (studies). The sense of insecurity about professional stability dominates among young people and is a decisive factor in their related decisions. At the same time, we observe daily that the success, progress, and evaluation of an employee are determined not only by their knowledge and performance but also by the personality traits that make them stand out (e.g., being communicative, sociable, and having leadership skills), as well as their training and continuous learning. Thus, education, work, and personality are interconnected in a dynamic relationship, reflecting the importance of career counseling.

The goal of career counseling, in this journey that individuals are called to follow to eventually find their place in the job market, is to help them understand themselves and be able, at every stage of life, to assess opportunities and make decisions. Self-awareness is the primary objective of the counseling process, where individuals discover their needs, values, expectations, and motivations, thus getting to know themselves. This is, of course, a continuous and evolving process, as a person’s personality develops and shapes over time.

Career counseling does not provide ready-made answers to students and young people trying to find their path; instead, it encourages critical thinking. It does not direct individuals toward predetermined paths but rather orients them. It does not judge ideas, opinions, or needs but understands and supports them. It does all this with one central focus: the individual and their unique personality. Each case is approached individually, and the process revolves around their desires, needs, skills, and abilities.

Consequently, the role of career counseling is multifaceted and significant, as it empowers and improves individuals. The importance people place on their professional journey highlights the significance of career counseling and the ethical commitment that develops between the individual and the counselor. We believe in this relationship and stand beside students, young people, and adults who want to chart their own unique path and achieve their goals.