Career counselling as a tool for Indian students considering study abroad

Need for career counselling

The Ministry of External Affairs reports that over 1.3 million Indian students are currently studying abroad, positioning India as the second-largest source of international students worldwide. The HSBC Quality of Life Report 2024 reveals the huge investments Indian families are making in their children’s overseas education, prioritising it over their retirement savings. While studying abroad offers numerous advantages, it’s essential to approach this decision with careful consideration.

Career counselling offers a structured approach to navigating these complexities. It ensures students make informed decisions that are grounded in self-awareness, realistic aspirations, and a clear understanding of the opportunities and challenges of studying abroad. With proper guidance and support, career counselling provides students with:

Self-assessment tools: Through psychometric assessments and reflective exercises students gain clarity about their strengths, interests, and values, forming a strong foundation for career planning.

Career exploration: By offering insights into global job markets and industry trends, counselors help students evaluate the feasibility of their aspirations and align them with international education options.

University and course selection: Rather than choosing universities based on rankings or peer recommendations, career counselors help students identify institutions and courses that align with their academic and career goals.

Financial planning: With the rising cost of education abroad, counselors assist families in budgeting, exploring scholarships, and planning sustainable financial strategies.

Addressing emotional and mental health needs

Despite its benefits, access to career counselling remains limited for many students in India, particularly in rural areas. The 2024 Annual Student Quest Report (SQR) reveals that over 40 per cent of students have never interacted with a counselor, highlighting the gaps in guidance and the lack of comprehensive school-wide counselling programmes. Moreover, the report underscores the unique challenges counselors face in India, such as managing parental expectations (26 per cent) and addressing students’ lack of planning (24 V). These gaps often lead to decisions that cause emotional distress and financial strain.

To address these issues, career counselling equips students with the tools to manage the emotional challenges of studying abroad. Integrating emotional intelligence and mindfulness practices into counselling can enhance resilience and adaptability among students. Mindfulness, in particular, fosters self-awareness, enabling students to manage stress and build emotional strength during the transitions associated with studying abroad​.

Additionally, educating parents is essential, as they play a pivotal role in shaping students’ career decisions. Their limited awareness of evolving trends and career paths can significantly influence the students’ career choices. Career counselling empowers both parents and students to collaborate, explore informed options, and make decisions with greater clarity and confidence.

Career counselling for holistic development

Effective career counselling goes beyond university admissions. It enables the holistic development of students, encompassing:

Cultural preparedness: Transitioning to a new country can be daunting. Counselors can prepare students to navigate cultural differences, build social networks, and integrate into new environments.

Mental health support: By creating a safe space for students to express their concerns, counselors can provide emotional guidance, helping them manage feelings of isolation and anxiety.

Post-study work and immigration guidance: Counsellors can guide students through visa regulations, job applications, and professional networking, ensuring they maximise all opportunities. By preparing students for the cultural nuances of the workplace, counselors can significantly enhance their chances of securing employment.

Networking opportunities: By connecting students with alumni, industry professionals, and other relevant networks, counselors can help them build valuable relationships and gain insights into the job market.

In a world that demands adaptability and resilience, the role of career counselling in shaping the next generation of global leaders cannot be overstated. It enables students to approach their study abroad journey confidently, clearly, and purposefully. By investing in comprehensive counselling programmes, educational institutions, and policymakers can ensure that students are well-equipped to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.

(The writer is the founder of IC3 Movement)