The Importance of Career Counseling Dr. Gary S. Wixom Assistant Commissioner Utah System of Higher Education October 12, 2006

Without education and training, individuals have a higher chance of living in poverty, and A higher chance of unemployment.

Here are the numbers!

Over the next five years The job outlook for those with no high school diploma is bleak. The job outlook for positions requiring some post secondary training will increase by 40%.

Although it is true that 80% of the jobs require less than a baccalaureate degree— 60% of the jobs providing a “livable” wage will require some postsecondary education.

Utah is losing ground in the number of young people that are making the transition from high school to some type of postsecondary training. Individuals need some form of post- secondary education and training in order to become financially self- sufficient for the long-term.

If this condition persists, the impact will be on the economic development and the standard of living for all Utahans. The answer is good career planning for youth and adults.

Career Counseling Benefits the student by focusing efforts within a career pathway –Leading to better course taking patterns –More opportunity for financial assistance – Better chance of finishing a certificate or degree