Connecting Learning to Purpose
A structured, intentional process that helps students discover, investigate, and connect with potential career pathways aligned with their interests, values, skills, and broader sense of purpose.
Limited Career Clarity
58% of Americans report job outcomes as primary education motivation, but lack clear career direction
Inadequate Preparation
Significant gaps exist between student career preparation intentions and actual experiences
UNDEREMPLOYMENT
52% of recent college graduates are underemployed one year after graduation
Proof Points
Career exploration positively correlates with career decidedness, academic motivation, and perceived employability while helping students make informed academic decisions.
- Career exploration shows positive association with career decidedness
- Students with career connections demonstrate higher academic motivation and engagement
- Career exploration positively related to perceived employability
- 90% of the Class of 2024 indicated their institution prepared them for next career step
Benefits
Career exploration enhances student motivation and academic focus while providing institutions with stronger employer partnerships and improved graduate outcomes that demonstrate educational value.
Academic Focus
Students make more informed major decisions and reduce costly changes
Better Outcomes
Higher employment rates and stronger connections between education and career goals
ENHANCED MOTIVATION
Improved persistence and engagement through clear purpose connections
Related News
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Learn More: Rethinking Career Readiness: New Report Guides Colleges on Embedding Career Purpose From Enrollment to AlumniRethinking Career Readiness: New Report Guides Colleges on Embedding Career Purpose From Enrollment to Alumni
Complete College America refreshes Purpose First report with new recommendations for how colleges can connect the student experience to career and economic mobility after graduation
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Learn More: The EDU Ledger: Colleges Must Embed Career Purpose Throughout Student Journey, New Report UrgesThe EDU Ledger: Colleges Must Embed Career Purpose Throughout Student Journey, New Report Urges
Quotes CCA President Dr. Yolanda Watson Spiva on CCA’s College on Purpose, 2.0 publication.
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Learn More: CCA On The Road: College of Health Care Professions NorthwestCCA On The Road: College of Health Care Professions Northwest
CCA looks back on a campus visit to College of Healthcare Professions Northwest in Houston Texas, where they learned more about CHCP’s equity centered for-profit model for healthcare education.
Related Resources
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Learn More: College, On Purpose 2.0
College, On Purpose 2.0
The updated guide to implementing the Purpose First strategy—a powerful approach to driving success in college and career by connecting students with their purpose in higher education.
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Learn More: Module 3: What Do Students Think About Our Technology?
Module 3: What Do Students Think About Our Technology?
Developed by The Ada Center in partnership with Complete College America Getting Started Institution leaders […]
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Learn More: Module 1: How Can Student Success Technology Advance Institution Goals?
Module 1: How Can Student Success Technology Advance Institution Goals?
Developed by The Ada Center in partnership with Complete College America Getting Started Over the […]
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