This study explores the educational choices and career aspirations of Chinese undergraduate students studying in South Korea, with a particular focus on institutional responses to their evolving needs. Drawing on survey data and in-depth interviews conducted at a national university, the research identifies key factors influencing students’ major selection—such as language proficiency, information asymmetry, and perceived employability. It also examines the mismatch between students’ educational trajectories and career expectations. The findings reveal structural gaps in current academic support and career guidance systems, which hinder students’ academic motivation and professional integration. In response, this paper proposes the development of an exclusive academic program tailored for international students. The program emphasizes flexible curricula, integrated support services, and cross-cultural inclusivity. Finally, the study outlines strategic and policy recommendations for institutional innovation, aiming to foster sustainable models of international student education within Korean higher education.

This study investigated the differences between gender for effectiveness of career competencies training and integrative life planning on career aspirations, self-identity and congruity between the real and ideal self of adolescents in Lokoja, Nigeria. The sample consisted of 227 adolescents who scored low on Ego-identity scales and were found exhibiting low self-identity, which affected their career aspirations. They were made up of 114 males and 113 females. Quasi-experimental pre-test, post-test and control group design was used with the sample, which was randomly assigned to three groups. Career Competencies Training (CCT), Integrative Life Planning (ILP) and the control. A Self-Identity Questionnaire (SIQ), Congruity Questionnaire (CQ) and Career Aspiration Questionnaire (CAQ) were administered to the three groups before and after the experimental programmes. CCT and ILP groups were the training groups while the control was the waiting group. The statistical tools used were Means, Standard Deviation and ANCOVA. A null hypothesis was formulated to guide the study and was tested at 0.05 level of significance. There is no significant difference in the post-test scores on the self-identity, career aspiration, and congruity of real and ideal self of adolescents exposed to career competencies training, integrative life planning and the control group due to gender. The use of both training is therefore recommended. Parents should be encouraged to take cognizance of the congruity between the real self and the ideal self of their adolescents so that they can be properly guided on their career aspirations.