Post-Graduation Career Planning: Further Studies, Employment, and Entrepreneurship among SMKN 1 Takari Students

Abstract

Vocational high school students need clear post-graduation planning because they are expected to choose realistic pathways after completing school, including further study, employment, or entrepreneurship. This community service activity aimed to strengthen students' initial understanding of post-graduation planning and introduce practical information related to scholarships, job information sources, and entrepreneurial opportunities. The activity was conducted through an educational socialization approach at SMKN 1 Takari, Kupang Regency, East Nusa Tenggara, on 9 April 2026. The participants were 98 students from grades XI and XII across different vocational departments. The implementation stages included initial observation, preparation of socialization materials, delivery of the material by the community service team, interactive discussion, and activity evaluation. The results indicated that the activity was implemented according to plan and received positive participation from students. The socialization helped students understand the importance of planning after graduation and recognize three main pathways: continuing education, entering the labor market, and developing entrepreneurship. This activity served as an initial intervention; therefore, further programs such as career mapping, curriculum vitae preparation, interview simulation, and entrepreneurship mentoring are recommended to produce more measurable and sustainable outcomes