Shaping futures: A qualitative exploration of the factors influencing career aspiration among out-of-school youth
Renz A. De Mesa, Allyson Jazzle A. Jacob, Janella S. Basas & Alexander V. Kasilag
Abstract
The majority of young Filipinos are facing different obstacles in achieving their educational and career aspirations. The issue of out-of-school youth (OSY) is a growing concern in the Philippines, where access to quality education and economic opportunities remains unequal. This paper explores the factors affecting the career aspirations of out-of-school youth and their implications for future career trajectories. Using a qualitative research design, the study examines the experiences and perspectives of out-of-school youth aged 15 to 24. Data were collected through in-depth personal interviews, guided by a validated interview framework. Thematic analysis of transcriptions identified key influences, including family, peers, personal interests, and financial constraints. Family emerged as the most significant factor, followed by the impact of peers and economic challenges. These findings emphasize the interplay of social and economic dynamics in shaping career aspirations, underscoring the need for targeted support. Recommended interventions include educational assistance, voluntary teaching programs, free skills training, and organizational partnerships to facilitate career advancement. Limitations of the study include its qualitative scope and focus on a specific demographic, which may restrict generalizability. Future research should incorporate mixed methods and broader populations to deepen understanding and validate the results. The study highlights the necessity of culturally relevant and comprehensive strategies to empower out-of-school youth in pursuing meaningful and sustainable careers.
Keywords
qualitative, factors, influence, career aspirations, out-of-school youth
Author information & Contribution
Renz A. De Mesa. Corresponding author. Humanities and Social Sciences student. Sta. Catalina National High School Candelaria, Quezon, Philippines. Student. Email: renzabante143@gmail.com
Allyson Jazzle A. Jacob. Humanities and Social Sciences student. Sta. Catalina National High School-Senior High School Department Candelaria Quezon—Philippines.
Janella S. Basas. Humanities and Social Sciences student. Sta. Catalina National High School-Senior High School Department Candelaria Quezon—Philippines.
Alexander V. Kasilag. Secondary School Teacher at Sta Catalina National High School- Senior High School Department Candelaria Quezon, Division of Quezon—Philippines. Research Advisor.
"All authors equally contributed to the conception, design, preparation, data gathering and analysis, and writing of the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript."
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Funding
This work is funded by Sta Catalina National High School—thru Academic Inquisitive Minds Society.
Declaration
AI tools were not used in writing this paper.
Notes
*This paper is a finalist in the 4th International Research Competition (IRC)-2024
Acknowledgement
The successful completion of this research would not have been possible without the cooperation and support of various groups and organizations. Their invaluable contributions are deeply appreciated and gratefully acknowledged. The researchers sincerely thank the Barangay Chairman of Barangay Malabanban Sur, Candelaria, Quezon, Philippines, for permitting the study within his jurisdiction. Special thanks are also given to the out-of-school youth who participated in the data collection process; their involvement was essential to this research. The researchers are equally grateful to the Academic Inquisitive Minds Society (AIMS), the Supreme Student Learners Government (SSLG), and the teachers of Sta. Catalina National High School for their financial support and encouragement. Lastly, the researchers express profound appreciation to God for His constant guidance, strength, and wisdom throughout this research endeavor. The Researchers extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all.
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Cite this article:
De Mesa, R.A., Jacob, A.J.A. & Basas, J.S. (2025). Shaping futures: A qualitative exploration of the factors influencing career aspiration among out-of-school youth. The Research Probe, 5(1), 52-66. https://doi.org/10.53378/trp.175
License:
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY 4.0) International License.
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