Growing up, I admired the legal system and somewhat aspired to become a policeman. My fascination stemmed not from the job itself but from their organization and physical presentation during national celebrations like Madaraka Day and other public holidays. This admiration was superficial—I hadn’t experienced police brutality or had direct encounters with officers since we lived far from the nearest police station. Some might argue that such an encounter could have changed my childhood aspirations. This reflection leads me to explore the personal factors that influence career choices.
After joining primary school, I began to identify as an aspiring lawyer. During class, our teacher often asked about our future careers. It was then I realized the vast array of professions that existed: doctors, pilots, engineers, farmers, and the commonly known “white-collar jobs” familiar to African children. Wanting to stand out, I confidently declared my ambition to become a lawyer—a profession I had heard about on TV. That aspiration remained until I completed my finals and reality struck.
Although my grades qualified me for law school, other factors influenced my decision about higher education. My high school principal often advised, “Before deciding your future career, consider your home situation and your passion for the field.” Taking this to heart, I reevaluated my choice. Studying law required significant funding, which was beyond what my mother could realistically afford. Additionally, I sought a career that could provide economic independence soon after graduation. Ultimately, I chose teaching—a profession that felt natural to me and seemed to run in my family. My mother, who never got the chance to be a teacher, always dreamed of it. She also shared that my grandfather had been a teacher. Accepting this path, I’m now a proud teacher-in-training.
From my personal journey, it’s evident that economic factors often take precedence in career choices, followed by passion and other considerations.In many third-world countries, education is viewed as the key to social and economic success. Career paths are often chosen with the hope of improving one’s background and meeting economic needs, as hunting and gathering—methods of survival in pre-colonial Africa—are no longer viable. In my opinion, innovation and invention tend to thrive after achieving some level of economic stability. This explains why developed countries lead in innovation and why urban schools prioritize technology learning.In rural areas, however, choices are frequently constrained by financial limitations. For example, careers in aviation or medicine often attract less attention despite evident qualifications because of high tuition costs. Many students opt for more affordable courses or seek alternative livelihoods. Fortunately, organizations offering scholarships have revived dreams for some of these students-I being one of them, providing much-needed support.
Parental influence also plays a significant role in shaping career choices. Some parents choose courses for their children, believing they know what’s best. For instance, families with a history in the military might push their children to join the armed forces, even if they lack interest. This can lead to undesirable outcomes, such as the prevalence of police brutality—a potential consequence of individuals entering the force without genuine passion for the job.Additionally, government policies can impact career decisions. Announcements of shortages in professions like teaching, nursing, or medicine might prompt parents to encourage their children to pursue these fields. While this can yield desirable outcomes, such as filling critical gaps, it can also lead to unprofessional behavior, such as negligence in hospitals or corporal punishment in schools.The surrounding environment also influences career aspirations. For example, one might avoid becoming a teacher because of the monotony of being associated with a common title in the community. In African literature, social class is often tied to titles, with positions like “president” automatically implying wealth. Comparing oneself to others can serve as motivation to achieve more, but it can also deter individuals from pursuing oversaturated professions.
To overcome such influences, it’s essential to identify the factors at play—whether cultural, familial, economic, or environmental. Once these are recognized, you can focus on aligning your interests and strengths with your chosen field. Self-assessment is crucial: understand your abilities, evaluate your interest in the field, and envision the changes you want to make in society. Exposure to new perspectives can also help.Researching marketable career paths, networking, and exploring globalized education opportunities—such as studying foreign languages or embracing different cultures—can broaden horizons. Setting boundaries with external influences and reaffirming your autonomy is equally important. Remember, your career is a personal journey. Breaking away from expectations might initially cause tension but will lead to long-term fulfillment.
As I conclude, I emphasize the importance of staying open to change. Career paths can evolve, and it’s okay to pivot as you grow and learn more about yourself. Embracing flexibility allows you to navigate life’s challenges while remaining true to your goals and aspirations.
