By: Abigail Akinadewo

A career is a profession or occupation that a person chooses and develops over a long period of time. Every teenager has unique talents, interests, and abilities that should be nutured rather than ignored.

Unfortunately, many parents force their children into careers they do not enjoy. For example, a student who dreams of becoming a fashion designer or musician may be compelled to study medicine or law simply because of family expectations. Such pressure can make the child unhappy, reduce motivation, and prevent them from reaching their full potential.

There is an instance of a young lady that came out on the internet recounting her experience of how she wanted to study advertising, but unfortunately she was forced by her parents especially her dad, to study law. It was very difficult for her to understand and pass the courses in law but she just made up her mind to make her parents proud. She eventually graduated with honours.  Funily enough, she is, today,  a director in an advertising agency.

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Parents should guide their children instead of forcing career choices on them. They should identify their children’s strengths, provide support, and allow them to pursue careers that match their passion. When teenagers are encouraged to follow their dreams, they are more likely to succeed and contribute more positively to society.

Abigail Akinadewo is a student of Trinity University, Yaba, Lagos State.