Students’ perception of labor market success in vocational education and training

Absztrakt

This study explores how vocational students in Europe define professional success. Success, as defined by Seligman (2002), involves satisfaction with one's current situation based on personal capabilities. We analyzed survey data from over 10,000 final-year vocational students to understand their perspectives on subjective (e.g. enjoyment) and objective e.g. (salary) aspects of success. Results show students prioritize objective factors (average score: 2.31) like financial security over subjective factors (average score: 1.69) such as work satisfaction. Prior work experience doesn't affect students' perception of objective success but increases the focus on subjective success. Interestingly, students with at least one college-educated parent value subjective success more, although the impact is small. These findings provide valuable insights for educational institutions to support students' career aspirations. By acknowledging the importance of both objective and subjective goals, vocational training can contribute to individual success and broader social and economic development.