Career Development

When does one's career begin?

Most people believe that career development begins in secondary school or after graduation, but did you know it actually starts as early as age 4 or 5?

According to Donald Super’s Career Development Theory, career development is a lifelong process that begins in childhood. Super identified five key stages, starting with the Growth Stage (birth –14 years old). During this stage, children begin to develop a sense of self, explore their interests through play, and form attitudes about work through experiences with family, media, and school.

Career development isn’t just about choosing a job. It’s about discovering who you are, what you’re good at, and what you value. That journey begins the moment a child starts to imagine what they want to be when they grow up.

At the YMCA of Singapore, we support youths in discovering their strengths and pathways — because career development is not a one-time choice, but a continuous journey of growth, exploration, and self-discovery.

How can you support a youth's career development?

 Career development starts young — but it doesn’t happen by chance. Students need caring adults to guide, encourage, and create space for exploration.

 According to Super’s Career Development Theory, students go through key stages:

• • Growth (birth – 14 years): Develop self-concept, interests, and attitudes

  • Exploration (15 – 24 years): Try out roles, make tentative choices
    Each stage requires supportive experiences that help them understand themselves and the world of work.

But in today’s fast-changing world, students also need Career Adaptability — the skills to navigate uncertainty and make decisions in an evolving landscape.

You can help by fostering the 4 Career Adaptability resources:

1. Concern – Help students look ahead and see the value of planning for their future.

2. Control – Encourage them to take ownership of their decisions and actions.

3. Curiosity – Create opportunities for them to explore different career roles, environments, and possibilities.

4. Confidence – Build their belief that they can overcome challenges and pursue meaningful paths.

Simple ways you can make a difference:

✅ Start career conversations early — ask what they enjoy, what matters to them
✅ Offer exposure to different jobs through talks, visits, or role models
✅ Encourage reflection on strengths, values, and dreams
✅ Celebrate growth, not just results — every step matters. 

At the YMCA of Singapore, we believe every student deserves to be seen, supported, and stretched in their journey. Together, we can build their readiness for not just a job, but a meaningful life.