PROFESSIONAL SELF-DETERMINATION OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: CRITERIA AND INDICATORS AS FACTORS OF INDEPENDENT PLANNING OF CAREER GOALS

Abstract

University students approaching the end of their academic journey begin to think about their professional goals and career choices. They spend a lot of time researching vacancies and considering various options for additional education in order to increase their competitiveness in the labor market. Professional self-determination of university students is a key stage in the life of a student, which helps them better understand themselves, their abilities, interests and choose the most suitable profession. Studies show that professional self-determination should be continuous and staged, is a responsible decision on which their future life will depend. The article discusses the criteria and indicators of professional self-determination of university students. The author notes that the process of choosing a profession depends not only on personal preferences, but also on external factors and psychological readiness of the student. Various methods are used to assess the level of professional self-determination, such as questionnaires, tests and interviews. It is important not only to conduct a one-time assessment, but also to periodically monitor the student’s progress. The expediency of including assessment, support and professional self-determination in the university curriculum is indicated.