Research & Evidence
Many young people report uncertainty about future pathways, and real-world exposure is uneven. Endeavrly exists to make the journey clearer and more practical.
Last updated: 2025-01-22
Key Findings
Research from leading organizations highlights the gap in career clarity and real-world exposure among youth aged 15–23.
39% of teenagers cannot name a career they expect to pursue
Across OECD countries, nearly two in five 15-year-olds are unable to name a job they expect to hold by age 30—the highest share ever recorded, and a sharp increase since 2018.
Only 45% of students have experienced real workplaces
Fewer than half of students have participated in job shadowing or work-site visits, missing valuable exposure to how careers actually work in practice.
Only 35% of students have undertaken an internship
Just over one-third of students have gained practical work experience through internships—leaving most without hands-on learning opportunities.
41% of young people are unsure how to choose their path
Many Gen Z individuals report difficulty navigating career decisions, even when they feel optimistic about their futures. The gap between aspiration and action is significant.
43% of students don't feel prepared for their future
Despite improvements in recent years, a significant share of young people still do not agree they feel prepared for what lies ahead.
Career exploration leads to better employment outcomes
Students who engage in career development activities—like job shadowing and conversations with advisors—show better results in employment rates, earnings, and career satisfaction by age 25.
What This Means for Youth
These findings point to a practical challenge: many young people want to succeed but lack the experiences and information needed to build confidence in their path.
- Uncertainty is common—but it stems from lack of exposure, not lack of ambition
- Real experiences matter—job shadowing and hands-on work shape clearer expectations
- Guidance makes a difference—conversations with advisors and structured reflection improve outcomes
This is why Endeavrly is built around Discover (exploration), Understand (reflection), and Act (real experiences).
What Endeavrly Does Differently
Discover
Structured self-awareness and career exploration. Understand your strengths, interests, and values through guided reflection and role deep-dives.
Understand
Industry context, career shadows, and planning tools. See how industries work and build a personal roadmap grounded in reality.
Act
Real experience via small, local jobs. Start building practical skills and discover what work actually feels like—before making big decisions.
Sources
Full bibliography with links to primary sources. All statistics verified as of 2025-01-22.
- OECD (2025). “39% of teenagers cannot name a career they expect to pursue”
- OECD PISA (2024). “Less than half of students have spoken with a career advisor”
- OECD PISA (2024). “Only 45% of students have experienced real workplaces”
- OECD PISA (2024). “Only 35% of students have undertaken an internship”
- Gallup / Walton Family Foundation (2024). “41% of young people are unsure how to choose their path”
- Gallup (2025). “43% of students don't feel prepared for their future”
- OECD (2025). “58% expect professional careers, but reality differs”
- OECD (2024). “Career exploration leads to better employment outcomes”
- OECD Education at a Glance (2024). “14% of young adults are not in education, employment, or training”
- OECD (2025). “Over half of students plan to work in just 10 occupations”