How to Make Better Career Choices
By Park Sa-ra, Head Student Editor
According to a survey result of 1,158 university students conducted by an online recruiting company, Job Korea, and Internet portal site, Campusmon, between March 23 and April 7, 2007, 37.4 percent of respondents answered they have been studying for the public service examination. On the reason why they try to be a public servant, 58.7 percent of them said that they want a stable job, and 10.9 percent answered that they have no choice but to be a public servant as a breakthrough in the current situation where recent graduates’ high unemployment rate is constantly increasing. If it were true, it is a pity that they are unconditionally trying to pass the exam without being concerned about their job aptitude or dreams in order to get a stable job.
As the job market tightens amid a slumping economy, it is too harsh for university students to get a job after graduation and they are severely stressed. Everyday I meet on campus upperclassmen and women who feel depressed at the pressure of finding an employment. I also look at them sitting in the library all day long studying. I recently heard from one of my professors who pointed out in class that about 60 percent of CNU students are preparing for the pubic service examination.
My confidante is preparing for a public service examination now and she had determined to do this when she was a freshman. One day I questioned her why she made that decision, “Do you really want to be a pubic servant? Is it your real dream?” Then, she answered, “Though most companies want those who have high abilities, varied experiences, certificates and qualification, I do not have such competence nor great skills. I’ll definitely apply to private companies and get diverse career opportunities.” It is sorrowful to hear that students and job seekers, including me, should ignore their job aptitude and give up what they really want to be.
Truth be told, however, reality cuts off our dream, talent and aptitude. I think that this phenomenon is a serious problem in our society. If talent flows into one place, society can not develop on the whole. If each person uses their talent, society will become more balanced and operate more effectively. We need to find a way to improve the current situation. First of all, the government should take adequate and comprehensive measures to help the young people make a career choice according to their talent and job aptitude. Young people, too, should put in an effort to figure out what they want to do with their life in the future through listening to their heart and their head. We, including the government and each one in every field in our society, must endeavor to remove distress of young students who have to spend their time on preparing to get a stable job after graduation instead of focusing on studying their majors.
What I want to say to my peers at university is as follows: We are young and all of us have the ability to accomplish our dreams. It seems to be unimportant to get a stable job for our better life in the end. I hope you prepare for your employment according to whatever you want to do in your whole life.