Analysis of the Effectiveness of Career Guidance Services in Vocational High Schools Based on Graduates’ Career Success

Abstract

This research is motivated by the high unemployment rate produced by Vocational High School (SMK)
graduates, as well as the many students who feel confused in determining their career direction after
education. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of career guidance services
provided when students are in grade XII. The method applied in this study is descriptive qualitative,
which provides researchers with the opportunity to explore the experiences and subjective views of the
informants. Data collection techniques are carried out through observation, with interview instruments
consisting of short questions randomly asked to SMK graduates. Of the total 21 respondents who participated in the interview, the results showed that 15 of them reported the existence of career guidance
services during their time at SMK, while the other 6 respondents indicated that the service was not available. These findings lead to the conclusion that the role of career guidance services in SMK can be
considered effective, as evidenced by the 15 respondents who felt significant benefits from the guidance
they received, which helped them in making decisions regarding their future careers.