Career adaptability and career adaptive behaviors: A qualitative analysis of university students’ participation in extracurricular activities

Abstract

The present research is an investigation into students’ selection of extracurricular activities that support the development of their employability. The research deployed focus groups involving students (N = 25) aged 21–44 years (M = 26, SD = 6.6), 52% of the participants were female, 48% were undergraduate students, 56% were international students, and 64% were the first generation in their family to attend university. Transcripts of the focus groups were analyzed using qualitative content analysis focused on students’ descriptions of career adaptive behaviors and career adaptability dimensions of concern, control, curiosity, and confidence. Through the lens of career construction theory, this present investigation has identified new findings that can help educators and practitioners understand the motivations, and interests of university students in engaging in activities that are likely to support the transition from university to work.