Master’s thesis examines career counselling as a key support mechanism for students transitioning from education to the labour market, with a focus on the functioning of the Career Centres at the University of Ljubljana. The theoretical framework draws on concepts of the de-standardisation of life transitions, individualisation, and the neoliberal transformation of education and employment systems, which increasingly shift the burden of navigating uncertain labour market conditions onto individuals. The aim of the research was to explore which socio-political approaches and counselling paradigms are present in career guidance and how they address risks associated with youth transitions. The study is based on a qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with five counsellors and four students who use the services of the University of Ljubljana Career Centres. Findings show that a predominantly liberal and diagnostic approach is applied, emphasising individual responsibility, adaptability, and the development of soft skills. Structural risks such as precarious work and social inequalities are largely overlooked. Counselling practices rarely involve deeper reflection or collective strategies. The thesis highlights the need to develop more critical, inclusive, and socially responsive counselling approaches.
|
