The research examines the effect of graduating student-level characteristics (GSLC), specifically employability skills and career adaptability behaviors, on the anticipatory emotions of college students transitioning from school to work. Data was collected through an online survey from 754 students in their final year of college and enrolled in internship courses. Forty-four percent (44%) reported feeling anxiety about this transition, with 78% of those reporting anxiety at levels 5 - 8 on a 10-point scale. The GSLC model fit the data well, explaining 24.5% of the variance in anticipatory emotions with four factors being significant predictors. The findings reveal that students who feel less confident about their disciplinary expertise, career decidedness, and occupational self-efficacy are likely to report negative anticipatory emotions (anxiety), same with students who are confident in their interpersonal skills; all significant at P value .05 level. Student suggestions, gathered from qualitative feedback, corroborated the results which offered ways to enhance programs that prepare them for work. These results underscore the crucial role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in preparing students for employment, providing quality education, and offering mental health resources. The study highlights the need for HEIs to work closely with career guidance teams to develop programs that build students' confidence and resilience, helping to mitigate anxiety and stress during college students’ transition to the labor market in the post-COVID-19 economy.

Authors:
Edgar Allan Castro, De La Salle Lipa, Philippines

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Edgar Allan G. Castro, Knowledge and Innovation Director, De La Salle Lipa. His research interests include educational leadership and technology. Working on AI impact on learning outcomes.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Sunday Schedule

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