The Impact of Future Planning Resources on the Transition to Adulthood

Abstract Book of the 10th International Academic Conference on Teaching, Learning and Education

Year: 2026

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The Impact of Future Planning Resources on the Transition to Adulthood

Alyssa Voss, Ian Telschow; Dr. Alli Cipra

ABSTRACT:

Adolescence is a critical developmental period during which young people shape the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors that will influence their lives as adults (Teachers Institute, 2023; Torpey, 2017). The educational system often neglects teaching essential life skills and career planning due to the prioritization of conventional academic studies (Srivastavy, 2015). As a result, many students may struggle with the transition to adulthood. Exposure to life skills training and structured career guidance can help ease this transition and is a key factor in helping individuals transition to adulthood (Serbes & Albay, 2017). Research is scarce on the association between adolescent participation in these areas and outcomes in adulthood. The current study examines the relations between access to early career/life skills education and later life and career satisfaction. This study utilizes a structured questionnaire administered to college students ages 18-35 within the Chicagoland area. Multiple statistically significant correlations were observed, including perceptions of competence with adult challenges and prior educational experiences (r=.27, p=.001) and global satisfaction (r=.45, p=.001). A positive association was also observed between general satisfaction and use of future planning resources (r=.48, p=.001). Additionally, respondents reported a link between their own perceptions of the impact of future planning resources and general satisfaction (r=.33, p=.001).

Keywords: Adolescence; Career Skills; Development; Life Satisfaction; Life Skills