How to choose a career: Tips for students around the world
Choosing a career is an important step for any student. It helps shape the subjects you study, the skills you develop and the opportunities available to you in the future. Career planning also helps you focus on your long-term goals and explore the best career options based on your interests and strengths.
You may find yourself asking ‘What is career planning?’ or ‘what career should I pursue?’. Taking time to research different paths, reflect on your interests, and explore potential opportunities can make this decision clearer and more manageable.
Royal Holloway International Study Centre helps international students like you build academic skills, explore their strengths and prepare for successful degree study and graduate careers through its pathway programmes. Once you have successfully completed a pathway programme, you can progress to your chosen degree at Royal Holloway, University of London.
1. Understand yourself first
The first step to answering ‘How to choose a career?’ is understanding exactly what you want to do once you have graduated university. Reflecting on your interests, strengths and motivations is a great way to do this. Knowing your personality and natural skills will help you make better career decisions.
2. Explore a wide range of career options
It's no secret that there are endless career options to choose from. A great place to start is to research different industries and emerging fields you have an interest in – you never know, you may discover new roles you've never considered or even heard of before.
Find out more about career preparation from Royal Holloway International Study Centre student Yusei:
3. Think about your lifestyle and future goals
The next step in how to know what career is right for you, is to think about your lifestyle and future goals – these will play a huge part in the career options available to you. You should consider work-life balance, income needs and personal values to ensure you choose a career that aligns with the type of life you want.
4. Research global job market trends
Another great way of choosing your future career is to identify fast-growing sectors like technology, sustainability, healthcare and digital fields. By doing so, you will understand which skills are in demand worldwide, allowing you to choose your degree based on the skills you need to develop.
5. Seek guidance from career advisors and mentors
Your career advisors and mentors will help you explore the best career options for you. You can also learn from teachers, professionals, or alumni who can offer real insights into what it is like to work in your chosen industry.
6. Consider studying abroad to build global skills
Studying abroad is an excellent choice for exploring your best career options. International study improves cultural understanding, independence and global employability.
Royal Holloway International Study Centre supports international students academically, improves English skills and prepares them for successful progression to Royal Holloway, University of London.
7. Choose a degree that aligns with your career ambitions
When planning your future career, it’s important to choose a degree that supports your long-term goals. Think about your academic strengths, the subjects you enjoy and the career you want to build after graduation.
Research different degree programmes and consider how the skills and knowledge you gain will help you progress in your chosen field. Choosing a course that aligns with your ambitions can help you stay motivated during your studies and build a strong foundation for your future career.
Choosing a career is a gradual journey and it’s normal to explore different paths. By researching, self-reflecting and seeking guidance, you will be making sure you are making an informed decision that leads to the best career options.
"Royal Holloway supports you quite a lot. There are career fairs and career support. They can give you advice of what you should do to progress your career or anything you can do to help you get into the job you want to do."
Stanley from Hong Kong
Studied International Foundation Year Social Sciences, Arts and Humanities
Progressed to BA(Hons) Drama and Music
Get excellent career support at Royal Holloway International Study Centre
Royal Holloway International Study Centre offers excellent career support for international students – preparing them for future success.
The International Study Centre is a dedicated learning environment designed to help international students prepare for undergraduate or postgraduate study at Royal Holloway, University of London. Located on campus, students experience university life from day one while building the academic knowledge, English language ability and study skills needed to progress to a degree.
Students enrol on pathway programmes such as the International Foundation Year, International Year One or Pre-Masters Programme. During this time, they study subject-specific modules alongside academic skills, critical thinking and research techniques, all taught in small, supportive classes.
Alongside their studies, students benefit from a strong focus on employability. The CareerAhead programme helps students identify their strengths, develop key workplace skills and build a professional profile through activities such as CV writing, personal development planning and industry research. Career support continues beyond the classroom, with guidance on applications, interview preparation, placements and networking opportunities, ensuring students are well prepared for their future careers.
FAQs
How do I determine which career is best for me?
Identify your strengths, interests, and values, then explore careers that match them. Gaining experience through internships or speaking with advisors can help you make a confident choice.
What careers are Gen Z most interested in?
Gen Z is drawn to careers in technology, digital marketing, sustainability, healthcare and creative industries. They prefer roles with purpose, flexibility and opportunities for innovation.
Which career is best to pursue?
The best career is one that aligns with your skills, interests and long-term goals. Choosing a future-focused field such as tech, healthcare, or sustainability can offer strong opportunities.