Future plans and aspirations

Career Guidance in Schools

Career guidance usually starts in high school, where counsellors help adolescents to explore various **career paths** and **educational opportunities**.
Schools in Iran provide **career counselling services**, generally in the form of sessions that aim at guiding learners regarding their post-secondary options.
These sessions introduce learners to different **occupations**, informing them about the various pathways to their **aspired professions**.

The Significance of Future Aspirations

Encouraging learners to consider their future ambitions is vital as it can impact their **choices** and **decision making** during their educational journey.
Discussions about future intentions often source learners’ motivation, prompting them to work harder at achieving their **educational goals**.
Future aspirations can also influence learners’ choice of subjects and specialities.

Post-Secondary Options

Upon the completion of high school, learners have a multitude of options depending on their **academic performance** and **aspirations**.
Many choose to attend **universities or technical colleges** to carry on their studies. Entry into such institutions is typically based on the nationally held university entrance exam, the **Konkur**.
Some learners may opt for **apprenticeship programs** or decide to directly enter the workforce.

The Role of Family in Future Plans

Families play an essential role in shaping future plans. Their **expectations** and **values** often influence students’ educational and career decisions.
Some parents encourage their children to pursue careers deemed **prestigious** in Iranian society, such as becoming doctors, engineers, or lawyers.
Others may support their children in choosing less traditional career paths based on their individual **interests and talents**.

Setting Goals

Setting attainable goals is crucial for learners. Goals should be **S.M.A.R.T. (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound)**.
Regular **reflection** on personal achievements and areas of improvement can help learners adjust their goals and strategies over time.

The Impact of Globalisation

Globalisation has greatly impacted learners’ future plans and aspirations. Many are becoming more interested in **studying or working abroad**.
Knowledge of foreign languages like English, French, or German has become increasingly desirable, opening doors to international opportunities.
Universities in Iran are also offering more diverse fields of study to keep up with the global demand of various industries.