Use of English

Career Paths

For many people, choosing a career is not simply a matter of personal interest or talent. From an early age, young people are often (0) MADE aware of what their families, teachers and wider communities expect from them. These expectations may be well intentioned, but they can also place individuals under considerable pressure to (1) .......... up to an image of success that does not reflect their own ambitions. In some cultures, certain professions are still held in particularly high (2) .........., and students may feel obliged to pursue them regardless of their actual strengths. As a result, career decisions are sometimes based less on aptitude than on a desire to gain approval or avoid criticism. This can (3) .......... to frustration later in life, especially if people come to realise they have chosen stability over satisfaction. Social expectations can also (4) .......... people away from less conventional careers in the arts, sport or entrepreneurship. Such paths are often seen as risky, even though they may be perfectly suited to someone’s abilities. Fortunately, attitudes are beginning to (5) .........., and there is growing recognition that success should not be measured by status alone. If young people are encouraged to think for themselves, they are more likely to make informed choices and to (6) .......... out work that gives them a sense of purpose. In the long (7) .........., this benefits not only the individual but society as a whole, since people tend to contribute more when they feel fulfilled rather than merely (8) .......... with others’ expectations.