A longitudinal study of the experience of a career development program for rural school students

Abstract

This study investigated students’ experiences of a career development program that was established to foster interest in and aspirations for higher education within high school students residing in rural and isolated areas of Australia. Nine students who participated in the program were interviewed 18 months later to explore their recollections of the experience. Results of the study revealed three themes pertaining to the value of career planning information, elaboration and confirmation of career thoughts and the social connectedness and positive experience the program provided. It was concluded that the program had a long-term positive impact and that there should be consideration given to exploring the cost-benefit of such programs in terms of university attrition rates.