Exploring rural Latino/a middle school student perceptions of their futures and careers

The population of Latino/a individuals and students in the United States continues to rise (US Census Bureau, 2012). Moreover, Latino/a students have been shown to have increased concern for dropping out, and for not believing they can achieve positive career outcomes (Pew Hispanic Center Report, 2009). As a result of these concerns in this increasing population, it is important to further explore the career-related concerns, specifically supports and barriers, among Latino/a students. The present study utilized qualitative interviews as a means of gaining a greater understanding of how rural middle school Latino/a students perceive their futures, including supportive factors to their career development, as well as barriers that may impede them from achieving their career goals. Results indicated that while students perceived potential barriers in their future, they also believed that they would be able to pursue and achieve their desired futures, and were able to generate individuals and resources that could help them to do so. These findings contrast previous research regarding Latino/a career development, and also highlight the potential importance of career interventions for rural Latino/a youth. Continued research and intervention with rural Latino/a students may be beneficial in promoting educational and career beliefs and behaviors.