Choosing what to study in college is one of the biggest decisions young people make. In many Western countries, students are often told to “follow your passion” and “do what you love.” The idea is that your choice should come mainly from what excites and interests you.One of the strongest influences comes from role models—teachers, relatives, public figures, or even people they see online or on TV. These admired figures can inspire students to pursue certain careers, sometimes even more than personal interest does.
In other words, for many students, choosing a major isn’t just about what they like—it’s about who they look up to, who supports them, and what fits within their social world.
But in many Asian societies, the reality looks different.
Another key influence comes from admired figures.
Students often look up to teachers, public personalities, relatives, or community leaders. A respected teacher in a particular subject can inspire students to follow the same field. Similarly, a successful relative working in a prestigious profession may become a powerful model to emulate.
In some cases, media representation plays a role. Careers highlighted in television dramas, news stories, or social media can shape aspirations. When certain professions are portrayed as glamorous or heroic, students may be drawn toward them without fully understanding the realities involved.
Vocational aspiration—wanting to become like someone admired—can be motivating. However, if this aspiration is based more on image than personal fit, it may later lead to disappointment.
It is important to note that personal interest is not absent.
Many students genuinely reflect on their strengths, talents, and preferences. Some successfully negotiate with their families to pursue desired fields. In more urban and economically developed areas, individual choice is gradually gaining space.
However, the review shows that in collectivist contexts, personal interest often operates alongside other considerations rather than independently. Students weigh their desires against family expectations, financial realities, and cultural values. Sometimes these factors align. When they do, decision-making feels smooth and satisfying. But when they clash, students may feel inner conflict.
Research cited in the review suggests that forcing students into mismatched fields can lead to low motivation, academic struggles, and career dissatisfaction. Conversely, when students feel supported in making balanced decisions, they report greater life satisfaction and stronger commitment to their chosen paths. At the end of the day, choosing a college major is about more than just finding a subject you enjoy. It’s about balancing personal interests with the people and culture that shape your life. When students feel inspired by role models and supported by their families and communities, they are more likely to choose paths that feel meaningful and rewarding.
Understanding this bigger picture reminds us that education isn’t just an individual journey—it’s also a social one. By recognizing the influence of role models, families, and society, we can help students make decisions that not only lead to successful careers but also to a sense of fulfillment and purpose in life.
Because at the end of the day, the goal of education is not only employment—it is fulfillment. And fulfillment is most likely when cultural belonging and personal passion walk hand in hand.