How we can rethink ability with a focus on interests in a review of Quinlan and Renninger's works in 2022

Rethinking employability: how students build on interest in a subject to plan a career, written by Kathleen Quinlan and K Renninger, is an engaging, informative read that provides insight into the process of building a career after graduation. It is an excellent resource for students and recent graduates who are preparing to enter the workforce, as well as those who are interested in exploring the possibilities that come with a university degree. The authors provide a step-by-step guide to understanding the different types of employability, exploring career options, and developing a plan to achieve success. They emphasize the importance of developing skills, networking, and building relationships with potential employers. With their comprehensive approach, Quinlan and Renninger provide readers with the tools they need to make informed decisions and pursue a fulfilling career.

Student identity

Students are faced with many challenges as they transition from school to college and then to university. One of the most significant is finding their place in a new environment and redefining their identity. University often involves exploring new very specialised modules, new living situations, joining societies and connecting with new people, which can be overwhelming and lead to identity confusion and loss. Students may experience an uncertainty about their path and what they want to do with their lives. They may have a specific career path in mind, or they may feel lost and unsure about their interests and desires. Students must first take time to understand who they are as individuals and what they value and enjoy. Only then can they explore different career options and paths that are a good fit for their interests and values.

Career interests

Career interests are the specific activities students are drawn to and motivated by; they provide a better indication of a person’s career path than a degree or major. Interests tell us what people enjoy and what they do in their spare time, which gives us insight into their values. Students should explore their interests to get an idea of what they want to do after graduation. They should consider what they enjoy doing, what they are good at, and what they are interested in learning more about. This will help them determine their career direction.

Professional development

There are many factors to consider when choosing a career path, including salary, interest and job security. But students must also consider their motivation and skills. They should think about what they’re good at and enjoy doing and what they’re passionate about all of these traits should be applied to a desired career path. Students should consider what skills and talents they possess, such as leadership, organization, critical thinking, creativity, and communication. They should reflect on the skills they’ve developed during their academic and extracurricular experiences all of these assets can be applied to careers. Students should also consider what they’re interested in learning more about, such as new technology or a specific field. This can be applied to a career path as well.

Student support

Students are often uncertain about their career interests and their professional identity. They can benefit from support, mentoring, and guidance. They should receive information and advice on the different types of employability. Students should meet with their academic advisor or the career services department and explore the types of employability. They should receive information on the different options available and what skills and abilities are needed for each.

Conclusion

While there have been many changes to the higher education and job markets, students must now also navigate a new landscape of employability in which they must prove their value to potential employers. They must do this with a new focus on their interest in the field and skills that can apply to multiple professions. Employability has evolved from an emphasis on certificates and degrees to what students can do with their skills and abilities in the workplace. Once students learn to focus on their interests and skills, they can use this information to explore different career options and develop a plan to succeed in the workplace.

Read more: Quinlan, K.M. and Renninger, K.A. (2022) ‘Rethinking employability: how students build on interest in a subject to plan a career’, Higher Education [Preprint]. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10734-021-00804-6.