Use of English

Career Pressure

Many young people like to believe that they choose a career entirely on their own. In reality, however, family opinions, school culture and social media can all (0) SHAPE the decisions they make. From an early age, teenagers are often (1) .......... to think that some jobs are more respectable than others. As a result, they may (2) .......... aside their real interests in order to follow a path that seems more acceptable. Parents usually mean well, but they may (3) .......... pressure on their children to study subjects that lead to stable professions. Friends can also have an influence, especially when certain careers are (4) .......... as more successful or impressive. In addition, online content often gives the (5) .......... that happiness depends on status, salary or public recognition. Because of this, some young adults end (6) .......... making choices that do not really suit them. Over time, this can (7) .......... to stress, disappointment and a lack of motivation. For that reason, careers advisers should encourage students to think carefully about their strengths and values, rather than simply (8) .......... in with what others expect.