Exploring the Roles of Gender and Academic Performance on Students’ Career Preferences

An individual's preferences for a career can vary greatly, and this is especially noticeable among undergraduate students. In Malaysia, these preferences usually correspond with opportunities in either the public or private sector. Accordingly, this study investigates how career preferences are associated with gender and academic performance among undergraduate students in Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Seremban. Respondents for this study were selected through convenience sampling, with an online survey as the primary data collection method. The data were then analysed using cross-tabulation and chi-square tests to examine relationships among the main variables. The findings revealed a tendency for female students to pursue careers in the public sector, whereas male students leaned toward the private sector. Nevertheless, no significant association was established between gender and career preferences among the students. Furthermore, the findings suggested that students who perform better academically are more likely to pursue careers in the public sector. Additionally, there was a significant association between career preference and academic performance. Regardless of the sector, choosing a career that aligns with a student's interests, strengths, and values leads to greater job satisfaction and personal fulfilment.