As students settle into the school year, they might have a lot of questions and thoughts on their minds. They may be wondering whether they made the right choice, whether they’re going down the right path, whether they’re falling behind or whether they’ll graduate on time.
Their success should not be measured by figuring out their career path at a fast pace because everyone’s life develops differently.
Expectations for students to make career choices quickly are too high. A recent CIBC poll, released Aug. 24, 2026, found that 76 per cent of Canadian post-secondary students said concerns about the job market influence decisions about their career and education.
By focusing more on improving their job prospects, rather than taking the time to explore their interests, they may feel pressured to make a career decision earlier than expected.
Colleges are encouraging students to constantly prepare for their future before being given a fair opportunity to decide what they actually want.
Students are encouraged to build resumes and gather work experience all while still trying to complete the program they’re currently in.
Should young adults really be expected to make long-term career decisions when their interests are still evolving?
It’s unrealistic to expect an 18- or 20-year-old to know exactly what they want to do for the rest of their working life.
People around this age are still new to the workforce and many young adults only know a small fraction of what’s out there. As they continue to grow, their views and interests in what they want in life can change.
It’s hard to ignore the financial struggles behind this argument. Ryan Romard, a researcher with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, argues that post-secondary education is much more expensive than just tuition fees. Students are also expected to pay for food, rent, transportation, textbooks and other essentials.
Romard points out that students under 30 living alone spent, on average, over 125 per cent of their income on living expenses and other necessities in 2019.
Due to these financial pressures students can be forced into debt especially when they aren’t getting financial support from their families.
Tuition can be expensive and taking a longer time to make a career choice can cost more money.
According to a Royal Bank of Canada report published on Sept. 9, 2024, undergraduate tuition growth has outpaced growth in graduates’ median incomes measured five years after graduation. The more semesters students spend exploring other options, the more the price tag can increase if they need to pay for additional courses.
While students need to think about their future financially, they still shouldn’t be expected to have their entire career planned out.
Constant pressure can lead to mental health problems and academic struggles. According to Mental Health Research Canada (MHRC), young people across Canada are facing pressures ranging from economic uncertainty and job insecurity to social isolation.
The report, based on data collected between Sept. 11 and Sept. 21, 2025, found that 83 per cent of Canadians ages 16 to 29 feel stressed about their career prospects, which is causing strain towards their mental health.
When you are continuously being asked if you have an internship lined up or what you are going to do after college, it can be really frustrating, especially when you don’t yet have answers.
It makes you feel like it’s a necessity to quickly know exactly how you want your career path to pan out.
Social media also plays a role. Students can be exposed to influencers and online content that shows certain careers as more successful.
Based on a study published in the Canadian Journal of Career Development, some young Canadians have been led to social media to acquire skills.
Although social media platforms can be a helpful tool for students figuring out their career path, they can also be misleading and lack authenticity.
How can this problem be solved?
Colleges should approach career journeys as a flexible option. For example, colleges can connect students with recent graduates. These graduates can help mentor students and answer their questions.
Colleges need to help students understand that starting over or choosing a different career path doesn’t mean they’re falling behind. It can mean finding a direction that suits them better.
Students must be encouraged to ask questions, evaluate their interests, gain experience and stay resilient.
Take your time and look at what’s available. Knowing your career path early doesn’t measure how successful you’ll be.